7 Health Benefits & Medicinal Uses of Star Anise

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Star anise is a star-shaped spice which is of a rich brown colour with eight corners. It tastes much similar to the anise, however, a little bitter. Its scientific name is Illicium Verum which originates from the Latin word Illicio. This herbaceous spice has got some kind of very effective anti-bacterial agents that will make your seasonal infections vanish over time. In traditional Chinese medicine, star anise is prescribed as an digestive aid, promoting health of female reproductive organs and for lactating mothers to increase breast-milk secretion.

7 Health Benefits & Medicinal Uses of Star Anise

As an Anti-fungal

Study find that extracts from the star anise plant, Illicium verum, showed significant promise as a natural anti-fungal. When your body’s internal balance of bacteria and fungi is disturbed, a certain type of yeast — Candida albicans — can grow unchecked. If this happens, it can cause candidiasis, a serious complication. Candida albicans is found naturally in your intestinal tract, mouth and throat.

Cure Rheumatism

The oil of star anise has been found to be beneficial in patients with rheumatism and also with lower back pain. Regular massage with the oil containing star anise helps.

Heart Health

Star anise oil maintains blood pressure level in check. It cuts down on the pressure on the heart. Additionally, since the oil is detoxifying, it enhances blood flow as well as keeps the heart healthy and balanced. The oil energizes the heart and also keeps it lively.

Antioxidant Properties

Antioxidants target free radicals atoms or molecules with unpaired electrons – that can cause disease and cellular damage. Free radicals can damage cellular DNA and initiate carcinogenesis – the beginnings of cancer. Statistical studies have shown that populations of South-east Asia, that use large amounts of this combination of spices, have a much lower rate of gastric, intestinal and lung cancer.

Skin Disease

The oil of star anise is also quite helpful of pain relief brought on by rheumatism and, in diluted form, to treat skin diseases.

Stimulates Pancreas

For the control of the insulin plus some hormones, pancreas is a crucial organ. Anise seeds assist to promote the pancreas. You’ve got decreased chance for diabetes along with other hormonal difficulties once your pancreas is within great health.

Rebel Cough

Inhalation with star anise seeds has a soothing effect. Pour boiling water over two teaspoons of ground seeds. The patient sits a few centimetre over the steaming cup with the nostrils, covering his head with a towel, so that the hot steam is fully inhaled. The soothing effect occurs immediately.

Sources included:

1) http://www.healthbenefitstimes.com/health-benefit-of-anise/

2) http://www.natureword.com/properties-and-benefits-of-star-anise/

3) http://www.diethealthclub.com/health-food/star-anise-health-benefits.html

4) http://asianfoodadventure.com/star-anise/

mcshane