The star anise, of Pimpinella anisum, is a plant native to the Mediterranean area, but now grows in Asia, South America and Central America. The plant gets its name because the fruit is star-shaped and reddish brown in color. The star anise has historically been used for the content of its aromatic essential oil in medicines and beverages. Today, the plant appearas in traditional medicine and in cooking.
Relieve Abdominal Discomfort
Star anise has been used for centuries to relieve abdominal discomfort. Specifically, one drop of star anise oil is typically mixed with 1 tsp. of honey and taken internally to relieve abdominal cramps, indigestion, gas, bloating and nausea. Be cautious in the amount of oil used. Too much oil, which may be as little as 1 to 5 ml, can cause severe nausea and vomiting.
Use as an Expectorant
Use star anise oil as an expectorant. Add one drop of oil to cough syrups and lozenges to help cough up mucous in certain conditions, such as asthma, bronchitits, the common cold and whooping cough. If coughing worsens with the use of star anise, seek immediate medical treatment because a common side effect of star anise is pulmonary edema, or fluid buildup in the lungs. Do not use more oil than directed to prevent serious side effects.
Increase Lactation
The herb may also be used to promote lactation in nursing mothers. Star anise contains diantheole and photoantheole, which has mild estrogenic effects to increase lactation. Furthermore, because of the estrogenic effects, star anise has been used to increase libido and treat symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Although star anise may be beneficial, nursing mothers should consult their physicians before using. In addition, this herb should not be used during pregnancy.
Remedies for Skin
Oil from the star anise plant is also used to treat skin conditions. Historically, the oil has been applied topically to treat mild forms of acne. In addition, star anise oil is toxic to many insects, and has been used to treat scabies and lice infections. Although star anise may help treat certain skin condition, never apply pure star anise oil to your skin because it may cause a severe irritation. The oil should always be diluted with lotion to decrease your risk of irritation.
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