Ingredient Spotlight: Star Anise - Illicium verum Hook.f
Chinese Star Anise is a tree of the family illiciaceae. It is present in the tropical and subtropical areas in Asia. The fruit is used in the Chinese ‘five-spice’ blend. It is used for culinary and medicinal purposes. It is an important constituent in Chinese medicinal herbs.
We will briefly discuss some of its effects in this section:
Caution: Before we go any further, we must be aware of adulteration with the highly toxic Japanese star anise (I.anisatum L) and another poisonous version of star anise (I. lanceolatum A.C. Smith). These versions have dangerous neurotoxic effects. Contaminated Anise infusions in infants have caused widespread neurological and gastrointestinal adverse effects. Therefore, it is very important to make sure your spice is obtained from a certified dealer.
Effects: The Anethole that is present in the dried fruit may have antimicrobial properties. It has shown effects in experimental models against antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anthelmintic, and insecticidal properties. It also seems to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. It is important to note that Shikimic acid and primary ingredient in the anti-flu drug Tamiflu is sourced primarily from Star Anise.
We have reviewed some of the chemical constituents and effects of Chinese Star Anise, and having said that, be careful to purchase products without contamination. As always, I wish that you keep your health in center focus and live long and strong!
