Anise, Star

Product Details

Botanical name

Illicium verum

Extraction method / Source

Steam distillation / Fresh fruits and seeds

Aroma

Clean, sweet, licorice-like

Plant description

Botanical family: Illiciaceae

Star anise is an evergreen tree native to southeastern Asia. It typically grows to 20 feet in height, but can grow to twice that height. It produces star-shaped woody follicles which contain reddish brown seeds with a characteristic licorice-like taste and fragrance.

Regions of Production

China

Growing Practices

Harvested from trees indigenous to the area, away from chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

History / Fun Facts

Hunters and fishermen find Anise oil useful. The fragrance not only masks the human scent, but some animals, including deer, are reported to be attracted to the scent.

Properties

Antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, expectorant, galactagogue, stimulant, stomachic (Battaglia, 2003)

Please refer to the Glossary for terms which may be new to you.

Uses / Benefits

Improves digestion and helps relieve flatulence and belching. Acts as an expectorant and natural decongestant. Helps relieve menstrual discomfort and increases lactation.

Modes of Administration

Topical: massage, compress, skin cream.

Inhalation: direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporizer. Frequently used in cooking, toothpastes, mouthwashes, skin creams and soaps.

Note: Star Anise essential oil may crystallize over time. Gently heat opened bottle in a warm water bath to liquify.

Fragrant influences

Uplifting, calming, relaxing, promotes a restful sleep. Vapors help open sinus and breathing passages. Promotes healthy interactions for people who tend to be introverted or withdrawn.

Blends Well With

Bay, Cinnamon, Clove, Fennel, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Grapefruit, Lemon, Mandarin, Myrrh, Peppermint, Spearmint

Safety

Non-toxic, may irritate sensitive skin.

Notice

This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease, and should not take the place of evaluation by a qualified health professional. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

Precautions

Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.

References

Althea Press, Essential Oils : Natural Remedies, 2015. Althea Press, Berkeley, CA.

Battaglia, Salvatore, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Second Edition, 2003. The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane, Australia.

Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy: Soothing Remedies to Restore, Rejuvenate, and Heal, 2002. Prentice Hall Press, New York, NY.

Schnaubelt, Kurt, The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils : The Science of Aromatherapy, 2011. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

United States Food and Drug Administration, HHS, 182.1 Substances That Are Generally Recognized as Safe, 182.20 Essential oils, Oleoresins (solvent-free), and natural extractives (including distillates), http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/CFR-2012-title21-vol3-sec182 (January 28, 2016). Worwood, Valerie Ann, The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, 1991. New World Library, Novato, CA.

TIMELESS Essential Oils guarantees the purity and quality of all our therapeutic oils.  The current Certificate of Analysis is available upon request.  All essential oils are best stored in an airtight container away from heat and light.