Star Anise / Gram

Star Anise

Origin : Southwest Asia

9 Surprising Benefits of Star Anise

If you're looking for a flavorful spice with health benefits, Star Anise might be a good choice. Research has revealed that star anise may:

1. Skin Health

With a relatively high level of various antioxidants, star anise can help to promote the elimination of free radicals throughout the body, particularly those that can cause oxidative stress in the skin. This can help minimize the appearance of wrinkles, boost skin elasticity, and cover up old scars and blemishes to keep your skin looking young and vibrant.

2. Immune System

The antibacterial effects of star anise are widely researched and well known, and this spice has been used to treat bacterial infections of the stomach and other parts of the body for centuries. Perhaps most importantly, this spice appears to be effective against several antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, making it very valuable to the pharmaceutical industry.

3. Respiratory Infections

More specifically, star anise helps in supporting respiratory health, so if you have a cough or sore throat, or feel the early stirrings of the flu, a cup of anise tea may be able to sort out the inflammation rapidly, and neutralize the underlying infection before more serious symptoms arise.

4. Sleep Issues

Numerous studies have found that star anise possesses some level of sedative properties, attributed to the antioxidant levels and the magnesium content of the spice. It can stimulate the release of certain neurotransmitters that induce relaxation and sleep, making this spice valuable for people who suffer from insomnia and regularly interrupted sleep patterns.

5. Circulation

The most notable mineral found in star anise is iron, and a single tablespoon of these small fruiting bodies contains roughly 13% of your daily recommended amount. While eating an entire tablespoon of these fruits is unlikely, the concentration of iron can still help boost red blood cell production, thus increasing energy levels by promoting circulation and proper oxygenation of the body€™s extremities.

6. Fungal Infections

Most notably, this spice has powerful anti-fungal properties, and has been a trusted natural remedy for a huge host of fungal infections, including Athlete€™s foot, ringworm, Candida and other common strains. While most fungal infections are relatively harmless, a regular dosage of star anise tea can give your immune system the necessary boost against these pathogens.

7. Digestion

Anecdotal evidence points to star anise as being an effective digestive, and the fruits are commonly eaten after meals to promote proper digestion. It can also help to relieve bloating and excess flatulence, while also easing cramping and improving the bacterial balance in your gut for high nutrient uptake efficiency.

8. Hormones

The effects of star anise on hormone levels if widely studied, as it can have quite a powerful effect on both men and women. In men, it can provide an energetic boost and increase sex drive, whereas in women it can regulate menstrual cycles, control mood swings and other hormone-driven side effects of menstruation.

9. May Lower the Risk of Cancer

The diverse range of antioxidants in this spice, from quercetin and kaemferol to thymol and coumaric acid, can all affect oxidative stress in the body. A team of Malaysian researchers published a study in the South African Journal of Botany, which stated that trans-anethole, one of the major constituents of Illicium verum Hook (the scientific name of star anise), has been reported to have antitumor activity against, breast cancer, cervical carcinoma, fibrosarcoma, and Ehrlich ascites tumor. Meanwhile, research is undergoing to conclude if it has the ability to reduce the progression of colon cancer.