Caisimon de Anis plant Piper Auritum hoja santa

When talking about "caisimon leaves anis" refers to the plant commonly known as caisimón de anís, or the root beer plant (Piper auritum), whose leaves have an anise-like scent and flavor.

The plant also goes by the common names hoja santa (sacred leaf) and anisillo.

The large, heart-shaped leaves have a complex fragrance often described as a mix of sassafras, anise, eucalyptus, and black pepper.

 In Latin American cuisine, particularly in Cuba and Mexico, fresh leaves are used to season dishes like tamales and wrap foods for cooking to impart a distinctive flavor.

The leaves are used in traditional medicine; a tea made from them is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, and cooking the leaves is used to treat conditions like herpes and rashes.

 The plant is also used for spiritual and religious purposes, especially in some Afro-Caribbean traditions for cleansing and protection rituals.