Star Anise
Illicium verum
A warming spice used for coughs and gas; the source of shikimic acid (a flu-drug precursor).
Traditional use (tcm, household): A warming spice used for coughs and gas; the source of shikimic acid (a flu-drug precursor).
A warming spice used for coughs and gas; the source of shikimic acid (a flu-drug precursor).
Active constituents are under study; evidence ranges from traditional use to preliminary human trials.
- A warming spice used for coughs and gas; the source of shikimic acid (a flu-drug precursor).
Evidence strength: traditional use.
- See the evidence level above
- Use only culinary (Chinese) star anise — toxic Japanese star anise is a dangerous adulterant.
- Infants
- Japanese star anise contamination
Use only culinary (Chinese) star anise — toxic Japanese star anise is a dangerous adulterant.
May interact with prescription medications — review with a clinician if you take any.
Use caution in pregnancy, breastfeeding, for children, and with chronic disease unless cleared by a clinician.
Choose reputable, tested suppliers; correct identification is essential for wild-harvested plants.