Editing National Anisette Day (USA) (section)

== The History of National Anisette Day ==
The origins of National Anisette Day are unclear, as no official founder or proclamation has been documented, but it echoes the spirit of American food and drink observances that celebrate cultural flavors. Anisette itself dates back to ancient Egypt, where anise seeds were prized for their medicinal properties, believed to aid digestion and treat ailments like epilepsy and congestion. The modern liqueur emerged in the 1800s, with Italian distiller Luigi Manzi credited for creating one of the first commercial anisettes. Unlike absinthe, which contains wormwood, anisette uses fewer herbs, resulting in a sweeter, milder profile.

Anisette gained popularity in Mediterranean countries, where it’s known by names like sambuca (Italy), ouzo (Greece), pastis (France), and raki (Turkey). In the U.S., it became a staple during festive occasions like Mardi Gras and Easter, often paired with water to create a milky, refreshing drink called a Palomita. National Anisette Day, established in recent decades, reflects America’s love for diverse culinary traditions and provides a midsummer excuse to enjoy this flavorful liqueur.