ILLICIUM Meaning and
Definition
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Illicium refers to a genus of evergreen shrubs or trees commonly known as anise trees or star anises, and also represents the name of the family Illiciaceae to which these plants belong. The term "illicium" derives from the Latin word "illicere," meaning "to allure" or "to entice," which aptly describes the characteristic fragrance and flavor of the star-shaped fruits of these plants.
These tropical and subtropical plants are native to East Asia, primarily China, Japan, and Vietnam, and are known for their aromatic properties. The most well-known species in this genus is Illicium verum, commonly known as true star anise, which is extensively used in cooking and for producing essential oils. The star-shaped fruits of Illicium plants contain seeds that possess a distinct licorice-like flavor due to the presence of the chemical compound anethole.
Apart from their culinary uses, Illicium plants have also been widely employed in traditional medicine for various purposes. The fruits are believed to possess digestive, expectorant, and antiviral properties, among others. In addition, some species of Illicium, such as Illicium floridanum, commonly known as the Florida anise, have ornamental value due to their attractive glossy, dark green leaves and red-tinged flowers.
Overall, illicium refers to a genus of aromatic, evergreen plants characterized by star-shaped fruits and belonging to the family Illiciaceae. These plants have culinary, medicinal, and ornamental importance and are commonly found in East Asia.
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Chinese or star anise, the dried fruit of Illicium verum (not I. anisatum), an evergreen shrub or small tree of southern China; stimulant carminative in doses of gr. 10-20 (0.6-1.3).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ILLICIUM
- ullicium
- jllicium
- kllicium
- ollicium
- 9llicium
- 8llicium
- iklicium
- iplicium
- iolicium
- ilkicium
- ilpicium
- iloicium
- illucium
- illjcium
- illkcium
- illocium
- ill9cium
- ill8cium
- illiciim
- illicyum
Etymology of ILLICIUM
The word "illicium" has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin noun "illicio", which means to entice, allure, or attract. The suffix "-ium" indicates a place or instrument, so "illicium" can be understood as a place or thing that entices or attracts. In English, "illicium" is commonly used to refer to a group of plants known as the star anise genus, which includes aromatic shrubs or small trees.
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