Star Anise Essential Oil

The most beautiful of spices, Star Anise is a small, evergreen tree up to 10 m tall that is indigenous to the northeast Vietnam and southwest China. Its name derives from the Latin word illicere, meaning to attract, for its temping perfume, and verum means true or genuine, so as to distinguish it from false fruits. The plant has large, dark green leaves and small, attractive, yellowish green to reddish, solitary flowers. The flowers are followed by distinctive star-shaped fruits that are made up of eight separate carpels that each form a small capsule with a single, sweet liquorice-flavored seed housed inside. Star Anise is no longer found in nature but it is widely cultivated in China, India, Philippines and Japan.

Star Anise has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over a thousand years for its stimulating effect on the digestive system such as stomach discomfort, indigestion and bloating, as well as for respiratory ailments including bronchitis and unproductive coughs. Star Anise is also useful in dyspepsia, flatulence, spasmodic, colonalgia, dysentery, asthma, hemiplegia, facial paralysis and halitosis.

Star Anise essential oil has an agreeable, aromatic, sweet and pleasant fragrance that is similar to that of Anise, but less subtle and slightly more bitter.

Similar to Anise essential oil, Star Anise oil enhances relaxation, sleep patterns and emotional balance. It helps reduce tiredness or weariness resulting from physical or mental activity.

Unlike Anise oil, Star Anise essential oil does not appear to be dermal irritant. However, it is narcotic and can slow down circulation. Used in moderation only and avoid during pregnancy.

Do not take essential oils internally or use without the guidance of a qualified practitioner. The information provided here is for general use only and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Do not use during pregnancy.