2024 Author: Jasmine Walkman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 08:29
Anise in the form of a star is a spice made from the fruits of the Chinese evergreen tree Illicium verum. Its name comes from similar to star pods from which seeds are collected for spices and has a taste reminiscent of licorice.
Due to the similarities in their taste and names, star anise is often confused with ordinary anise, although the two spices have nothing in common.
Star anise is known not only for its distinctive taste and culinary applications, but also for its medicinal benefits.
Rich in powerful bioactive compounds
Herbs and spices often remain unknown characters in the world of health and nutrition, and star anise is no exception.
The most valuable component of star anise can be found in the abundance of flavonoids and polyphenols it contains. They are most likely responsible for the wide uses and medical benefits of the spice.
Some of the main health benefits of this type of anise include:
- Linalool;
- Quercetin;
- Anethole;
- Shikiminic acid;
- Gallic acid;
- Lemon substances.
Some animal studies have shown that the antioxidant capacity of this spice may even have anti-cancer properties, such as reducing tumor size.
Medical benefits
Star anise is used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, and has recently been adopted in some practices of Western medicine.
The increase in its consumption is largely due to its antimicrobial properties and pharmacological potential.
Antivirus capabilities
Star anise is currently the main source of schicic acid used in the development of pharmaceuticals. As the flu pandemic continues to grow as a threat to global health, the demand for star anise is increasing. Some tube studies also show that the essential star anise oil can treat other types of viral infections, including herpes simplex type 1.
Antifungal properties
Star anise is a rich source of flavonoid anethole. This compound is responsible for the distinctive taste of the spice and offers a strong antifungal effect. Some agricultural research has found that trans-anethole derived from star anise can inhibit the growth of pathogenic fungi in some edible crops.
Antibacterial benefits
One of the most important medical health benefits of star anise is its ability to inhibit bacterial growth associated with various diseases. Some studies have found that star anise extract is as effective as antibiotics against many drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria. This may be particularly useful for the future development of new antibiotic drugs.
Studies also show that the bioactive compounds in star anise can be effective in treating urinary tract infections caused by various bacteria.
You can easily add it to cooking
Star anise it has a licorice-like aroma similar to ordinary anise or dill, although it is not associated with any of these spices. Combines well with coriander, cinnamon, cardamom and cloves.
When you cook, you can to use star anise whole or in powder form. It is often used in classic Chinese, Vietnamese, Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines, especially as a flavoring in broths, soups and curries.
In the practices of traditional Chinese and folk medicine, star anise is soaked in water to make tea used to treat respiratory infections, nausea, constipation and other digestive problems.
Star anise is also a great addition to sweet dishes and desserts such as baked goods, pies, bread and rolls.
However, if you have never used this spice in your culinary activities, keep in mind that it has a very strong aroma and taste. Start with a small amount and gradually add more if needed to avoid overuse.
Possible risks of anise
The greatest danger to human health is a close relative of the Chinese spice - the highly toxic Japanese star anise. It is known to contain powerful neurotoxins that can cause serious physical symptoms, including seizures, hallucinations and nausea.
Japanese star anise looks almost the same as its Chinese counterpart, and some Chinese star anise products on the market may be mixed with Japanese spices.
If you are not 100% sure of the source or purity of the product, it may be a good idea not to use too much at once to avoid possible intoxication.
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