Star Anise
Star Anise
Illicium anisatum or Illicium verum
AKA: Ba jiao hui xian, Chinese anise
Portrait: Evergreen tree. Native to China, Korea, Japan, India, and Vietnam. Grows wild and cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including the southeastern states of the US. Greenish-yellow flowers are followed by the fruit, a dry, woody, sweetly aromatic cluster of seeds in the shape of a star.
Medicinal Element: Seeds
Herbal Properties: Carminative, stimulant, stomachic
Summary: Star anise is used by the Chinese to alleviate digestive complaints much like western herbalists use anise seeds. It alleviates indigestion, intestinal gas, and stomach cramps. A decoction of this herb is occasionally used to remedy rheumatism, hernias of the intestine or bladder (when combined with fennel), and back pain. Weak preparations of star anise may be given to children with stomach upset or to infants with colic. Star anise is sometimes “filled out” or “cut” with smaller, darker seeds that are toxic in large amounts. These seeds are from the Japanese variety of star anise (Illicium religiosum), an acrid and more bitter star anise – it is actually closer to cardamom in scent and taste than its Chinese counterpart. It is always best to purchase this herb from a reputable herbalist to ensure purity. Consult a pediatrician before administering this herb to children.
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