Star Anise Elixir 

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   Notable Phytonutrients In Star Anise And Their Features

   • Anethole is the compound that defines the unique flavor of star anise. It is an anti-inflammatory compound that can be used therapeutically.
   • Limonene is a monoterpene that is abundant in citruses and other plants. It has antioxidative, anti-cancer, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.
   • Flavonoids and terpenes are plant compounds with powerful antioxidative properties.

   Medicinal Uses And Health Benefits of Star Anise

   It is estimated that about 90% of all the star anise cultivated worldwide isn’t even used as a spice for culinary purposes. Instead, it’s valued as a source of shikimic acid, a natural compound used in the production of the conventional anti-influenza drug oseltamivir (Tamiflu).

   Although star anise doesn’t have any anti-viral properties itself, it’s still widely used to fight off bacterial and fungal infections.

   For instance, anethole, one of the primary compounds of Chinese star anise, has been confirmed to be effective against various bacteria, fungi, and yeasts. Some other studies reported star anise is even effective as a natural pesticide that’s safe for human health!

   Soothes inflammation

   Animal studies back from 2014 reported that anethole can also decrease the production of inflammatory molecules in the body by tweaking the function of several immune system cells. The action of anethole was comparable to that of ketoprofen, a conventional painkiller!

   Alleviates pain

   The anethole present in star anise essential oil has been reported to have significant painkilling properties in several animal studies. Most likely, this effect is achieved through the anti-inflammatory action of anethole.

   Has anti-cancer potential

   Star anise have high antioxidants content that helps neutralize free radicals in the body that are responsible for diseases. The active compounds of star anise essential oil were reported to fight several types of cancer including colon, lung, and breast cancer.

   Fights off lice

   As reported by a 2017 study, star anise extract is effective in treating pediculosis (infestation of lice in hair) on a similar level with permethrin shampoo, which is the first-line conventional over-the-counter treatment for this condition.

   May help to prevent fatty liver disease

   A recent study reported that the shikimic acid present in star anise suppresses the formation of fat—particularly in the liver. This effect could be exceptionally beneficial for people with excess weight, diabetes, and chronic liver problems.

   Supports immunity when combined with quercetin

   Although the shikimic acid in star anise doesn’t have any antiviral properties of its own, studies reported that it’s able to support the body’s own antiviral power when combined with quercetin. Quercetin is a natural plant pigment found in such foods as red onions, kale, broccoli, apples, and berries.

   Soothes the digestive system

   Drinking star anise tea after a meal can help to reduce any digestive disorders such as indigestion, gas, bloating and relieve constipation. This is why the Indians often have a cup of masala chai after a meal. A glass of water infused with the crushed seeds of star anise work as well.

   Danger of the Japanese Star Anise (Illicium anisatum)

   Although Chinese star anise (Illicium verum) isn’t dangerous, keep an eye for its toxic siblings—the Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum) and, less frequently, poisonous star anise (Illicium lanceolatum). Japanese star anise, also known as shikimi, contains sikimitoxin and anisatin—two powerful neurotoxins. When ingested, they impair the brain’s functions and cause seizures, as well as severely damage the digestive system, kidneys, and urinary tract.

   The cultivation of Japanese star anise and the import of Chinese star anise are carefully monitored to prevent any cross-contamination, so cases of intoxication are extremely rare. Nevertheless, you should know that it’s still possible.

   For instance, in 2004 the American Academy of Pediatrics reported on 7 cases of severe neurological reactions in babies who received star anise tea that was contaminated with the Japanese toxic variety of the plant.

   Borrow From Juice for Health.com