Star Anise: Properties, Benefits and How to Prepare Your Infusion

Star anise, also known as Chinese anise o badiania, is an aromatic spice native to the regions of China and VietnamIts characteristic star shape and powerful aniseed aroma have made it an essential ingredient in both cooking and traditional natural medicine. Below, we will explore its properties, benefits and possible contraindications in depth, as well as learn practical ways to include it in our daily diet.

Properties of star anise

Star anise belongs to a different family than green anise, but they share the same active ingredient: anethole. This substance is responsible for many of its medicinal properties. Its main features are listed below:

• Facilitates digestion: It stimulates stomach secretions, relieving hyposecretory dyspepsia and loss of appetite.
• Carminative properties: Helps reduce gas, relieving abdominal swelling and relaxing the belly.
• Natural diuretic: It promotes the elimination of accumulated fluids and toxins from the body.
• Antispasmodic: Relieves intestinal colic and other spasms of the digestive tract.
• Expectorant: Effective in treating cough, bronchitis and eliminating mucus, also being beneficial for people with asthma.
• Regulates menstruation: It stimulates the menstrual cycle, being useful for women with irregularities.
• Analgesic: Thanks to its ethanol and caryophyllene content, it serves to relieve pain related to rheumatism.
• Topical use: It has antimicrobial properties that help heal skin conditions, wounds and irritations.

Health benefits of star anise

Star anise not only stands out for its medicinal properties, but also for the multiple benefits it brings to the body when consumed appropriately. Below we detail all its benefits:

• Relieves digestive discomfort: It is ideal after heavy meals to prevent heartburn and aid digestion.
• Fight respiratory infections: It is useful for relieving symptoms of flu, asthma and bronchitis thanks to its expectorant action.
• Strengthens the immune system: Contains antioxidants that eliminate free radical and strengthen the body's defenses.
• Regulates the menstrual cycle: Helps alleviate period pains.
• Enhances sexual desire: Traditionally, it is credited with aphrodisiac properties.
• Soothes colic in babies: It is important to consult with a pediatrician before administering it.
• Improves breast milk production: It is used as a galactagogue to promote lactation.

Related article:

How to eliminate gas and reduce bloating with infusions

How to prepare a star anise infusion

One of the most common ways to consume star anise is in the form of an infusion, ideal for taking advantage of its digestive properties and relaxing.

1. Boil 250 ml of water.
2. Add two to three star anise (about 1 gram per cup).
3. Cover the mixture and let it rest for five minutes.
4. Strain the infusion and consume hot.

To customize the flavor, you can add a slice of lemon or combine it with other spices such as cinnamon or ginger.

Side effects and contraindications

Despite its many benefits, it is important to consume star anise with moderation to avoid adverse effects, especially in sensitive people.

Contraindications:

• Not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.
• Avoid use in children under six years of age without medical supervision.
• It may cause skin irritation if its pure essential oil is used undiluted.
• Avoid excessive consumption, as it may cause symptoms such as drowsiness or confusion.

Star anise is a gift from nature with multiple medicinal properties, perfect for maintaining good digestive and respiratory health. However, its use must be responsible, respecting the recommended doses and consulting a medical professional in specific cases. Its exotic aroma and unique shape make it an essential ingredient in your kitchen and natural medicine cabinet.