Star Anise (Illicium verum) is a medium-sized evergreen tree, known as a culinary expert, but this spice famous for its medicinal properties. A highly fragrant oil Star anise is highly used in cooking. It is also used in perfumes, soaps, toothpastes, mouthwashes, and skin creams. Star Anise is called ‘chakra phool’ in India. The tree is native to northeast Vietnam and southwest China. Generally in our household it is common name for biryani and masala chai and you might be using it commonly, but do you know about its amazing health benefits??? If not then please have a look:

Health benefits of Star Anise

Star Anise Possess Antiviral Capabilities

Star Anise contains one of the most popular pharmacological compound shikimic acids with strong antiviral capabilities. In fact, it’s one of the main active ingredients in popular medication Tamiflu, used for the treatment of influenza.

Star Anise Possess Antifungal Properties

Star anise is a wealthy source of the flavonoid anethole which is responsible for potent antifungal benefits and also imparts distinct flavor to the spice. It may inhibit the growth of pathogenic fungi in certain edible crops. While certain research indicates that other bioactive compounds like terpene linalool may suppress biofilm and cell wall formation of infectious fungi in humans.

Star Anise Possess Antibacterial Benefits

Another important medicinal benefit of star anise is its bacterial growth inhibitor. Some research has revealed that as antibiotics, star anise extract is effective against multiple drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria. Some studies have also shown that bioactive compounds in star anise may be effective in treating urinary tract infections caused by different bacteria.

Star Anise Is Natural Insect Repellent

The ingredients of star anise are effective all-natural repellents against several insect species. The best thing about star anise is that Insects do not like anethole which is a major compound of star anise essential oil.

Star Anise Improves Lactation

Traditional remedy for new mothers and has long been licorice-type spices, including star anise. The chemical structure of Anethole is similar to neurotransmitter dopamine, that blocks another hormone prolactin, which stimulates breast milk production.

Star Anise Anti-Diabetic In Nature

For a long, adding star anise to the diet has been a traditional remedy to normalize blood sugar levels.  With an impressive amount of powerful antioxidants this spice is low on the glycemic index which affect blood sugar levels. Anethole present in star anise is responsible for reducing high blood sugar levels.

Star Anise Detoxifies The Body

Liver is the main detoxification organ of our body. Star anise’s antioxidant, analgesic and anti-inflammation properties protect various body tissues including liver while the phytonutrients present in star anise reduce oxidative stress.

Star Anise Promotes Bone Health

Star anise is a good source of elements such as calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus and vitamin K, which all take part in bone strengthening process.

Other Benefits

• Anti-inflammatory (reducing pain and swelling of muscles and joints—rheumatoid arthritis);
• Decreases body stress (reducing depression and anxiety symptoms);
• Improves sleep
• Enhances digestion
• Promotes healthy skin
• Regulates blood pressure and improves circulation
• Cancer fighting properties

Edward Bertrand