Remedies Using Star Anise

The Chinese star anise when is used as a remedy in the treatment of intestinal gas or flatulence and also other stomach discomforts. This is because anise star which is the dried fruit from the illicium verum plant has carminative and anti spasmodic properties.

Illicium verum is also known as Badian anise and Indian anise. The fruit looks like a star and has a tough covering. The seeds are inside the pods. The dried fruits or seedpods contain essential oil called anethole. Other active compounds present are eucalyptol. These two compounds are responsible for the licorice like flavor and aroma. When compared to anise, the taste of illicium verum and aroma of anise star are stronger.

Besides producing a carminative effect, anise star acts as a natural expectorant or a mucolytic agent and is commonly added to cough syrup and lozenges for treating dry cough. As it helps to expel mucus, it is used as a remedy to get rid of phlegm and treat other bronchial problems such as asthma, whooping cough and lung inflammation.

Anise star also has antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and diuretic properties. Two of the compounds that produce the healing effects of this spice are linalool and shikimic acid. Clinical researches done at the Devi Ahilya University in India found that linalool has anti cancer properties and has the potential to reduce the risk of certain cancers. Shikimic acid is used to prevent or slow down the spread of the influenza or flu virus.

Anise star is also used as a remedy to treat colic and rheumatism. When chewed, it can mask bad breath. It is believed that it may also stimulate appetite.

Anise star is available whole and dried, ground or powder, herbal tea, essential oil and liquid extract. The extract is also used as an ingredient in some herbal soap as it may help treat oily skin. When buying this spice, avoid Japanese anise star because it contains toxic substances called sikimitoxin and anisatin.

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