Anise Star: Exploring Its Health Benefits, Uses, & Delicious Tea Variations

Star Anise, known for its distinctive feature, is a versatile spice that is used in various culinary dishes. It has many health benefits that hold treasure, history, and its benefits not only add flavor to your dishes but also improves your overall health. In this blog, we will find more details about the star anise and its benefits.

Star Anise: A Versatile fragrant spice

Star Anise which is also known by the name of lllicium verum is a native of East Asia particularly China, Vietnam, and Japan. This spice is known for its unique star-shaped appearance that sets it apart from conventional anise seeds. Star Anise to the Magnolia family is often used to add a burst of aroma to culinary dishes. 

Composition of Star Anise

The Star Anise is linked to its unique composition. This spice is exceptionally rich in healthy-promoting compounds. Some of these compounds are:

1) Shikimic Acid- Shikimic acid is usually used in the manufacturing of antiviral drugs. It fights off viral infections and helps in boosting the immune system. 

2) Anethole- Anethole confers a licorice and sweet flavor of star anise. This compound has high antimicrobial properties. 

3) Linalool- These are volatile unsaturated hydrocarbons that are present in star anise. Moreover, the compounds are responsible for the typical floral scent of star anise. Also, it has a sedative effect and helps in relieving the symptoms of anxiety. 

4) Limonene- These are terpenes with a citrusy scent and they possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

5) Cineole- Cineole are terpenes with a spicy aroma and they possess high antimicrobial properties that will help in improving respiratory health.

The difference between anise and star anise 

Despite being similar in name and licorice flavor, star anise and anise come from different plants that are not related. Star anise is a star-shaped fruit of a tree that is a member of the magnolia family and is most often used in Asian cooking with a flavor that is more potent than anise seed. Anise is a flowering plant in the family Apiaceae that is related to cumin and is used in liquors such as ouzo and sambuca. The seeds are also used in breads and herbal teas throughout the Mediterranean. 

Top 10 Health Benefits of Star Anise 

The health benefits of star anise are widely pronounced in traditional Chinese medicine, and in the recent past, it has also been accepted into some Western medicine practices. Some of the potential health benefits related to the use of star anise are:

1) It improves digestive health

This fruit has antispasmodic characteristics that will help in relieving several digestive problems, including stomach cramps and bloating. It also promotes healthy digestion, as it will enhance the production of digestive enzymes as well as gut motility.

2) It improves respiratory health

The compounds present in star anise will help in improving the health of our respiratory system. The presence of cineole in star anise makes for easy breaking down of mucus, which makes it easier for you to expel. Moreover, this fruit has compounds that will provide relief from coughing and help to resolve the problem of congestion. Also, it aids in alleviating airway inflammation that can activate asthma and bronchitis.

3) It provides strength to the immune system

The presence of compounds in star anise holds the potential to strengthen the immune system. Its high antioxidant properties will help in protecting against radical damage. Also, it has shikimic acid, which possesses high anti-viral properties.

4) It reduces menstrual cramps

The regular use of star anise will improve menstrual health by reducing menstrual cramps, and the spice promotes relaxation and improves blood flow. 

5) It supports neurological health 

High amounts of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in star anise will improve neurological health. Moreover, these compounds will cut down inflammation and protect against neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. They will also help in slowing down the progression of the disease. However, there are some supplements available like Zen Focus by the Natur Nest that help in improving mental health. It also improves mental clarity and reduces the risk of many neurological diseases. 

6) It supports oral health

The use of star anise improves oral health. High amounts of antibacterial compounds will help in fighting against harmful bacteria in the mouth, which will cause gum disease. It also helps in eliminating bad breath too. 

7) It assists in lactation

New mothers who experience low milk production will benefit from star anise spice. This spice is well known for its galactagogue properties, which stimulate the production of prolactin, a hormone that is essential for milk production. 

8) It improves sleep disorders

Star anise spice has linalool, which is known for its sedative effect, and it reduces anxiety and leads to better sleep. The promising relaxant properties help in improving sleep disorders.

9) It helps in weight management

Star anise has compounds that help in promoting efficient energy utilization. Incorporating star anise into a balanced diet will support weight management.

10) It reduces anti-inflammatory effects

Some studies have found that compounds present in star anise have anti-inflammatory properties. These properties will help in reducing the risk of chronic inflammatory conditions. 

Culinary Uses of Anise Seed

1) Enhances Flavor: Star anise is well-known for its ability to enhance the flavor and aroma of dishes and is often used as a whole or ground in a wide range of recipes like stews, soups, beverages, and desserts. 

2) Beverages: For beverages, star anise is a star player, and it is used in several beverages like mulled wine and cocktails, contributing to the warmth and depth of these drinks. 

3) Preservation: Star anise has antimicrobial properties that have led to its historical use in pickling and preserving food. 

4) Medicinal Uses: Star anise has been used traditionally in some cultures and is known for its potential medicinal properties, like alleviating coughs and aiding digestion.

How to incorporate Star Anise seeds in Tea

Star Anise is a common ingredient in tea and its masala. Adding Spicy and warm flavour with enhancing the taste, star anise will give the potential health benefits. Enjoying the cup of star anise-infused tea will be a delightful way to reap its benefits. When used in tea, star anise adds a unique flavour and aroma to the tea. It is combined with some other spices like cloves, cardamom and ginger to form a complex flavour profile which is both sweet and spicy. Star Anise will be used as garnishing that adds a nice touch to the tea. 

Potential Side Effects of Star Anise

Star anise is usually safe to consume, and when it is used in cuisines, it does not trigger any major side effects. Furthermore, when used as a herbal supplement, it can cause 

Some side effects are majorly linked to its excessive consumption.These are:

1) Allergic reactions such as hives, itching, and swelling on the face and throat.

2) Gastrointestinal Issues like Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Abdominal Pain.

3) Interfere with anticoagulants, and it affects blood clotting. 

4) It can stimulate uterine contractions in pregnant women.

Wrapping It Up

Star anise is a strong spice that is widely known for its earthy aroma and rich taste. Thanks to its rich plant compounds that include antioxidants, polyphenols, and flavonoids, it has been known over the centuries. Star anise's benefits include better respiratory health, a strong immune system, and reduced menstrual symptoms. The presence of high antibacterial properties will promote oral health. Furthermore, star anise should be used in moderation, as excessive use can cause side effects.