What Is Star Anise? Other Names: Anis de Chine, Ba Jiao Hui, llicium verum

What is Star Anise?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Star anise, scientifically known as Illicium verum, is a spice commonly used in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. It is renowned for its distinct star-shaped appearance and aromatic properties. Beyond its culinary uses, star anise has been the subject of various scientific studies due to its potential health benefits. Other names include: Anis de Chine, Anís Estrellado, Anis Étoilé, Anis Étoilé Chinois, Aniseed Stars, Anisetree, Anisi Stellati Fructus, Ba Jiao Hui, Badiana, Badiane, Badiane de Chine, Bajiao, Chinese Anise, Chinese Star Anise, Eight-Horned Anise, Eight Horns, Illicium, Illicium verum, Staranise tree.

Uses of Star Anise

Anti-Carcinogenic Properties

Star anise has shown promising anti-carcinogenic properties. Research indicates that it can reduce tumor burden and oxidative stress, as well as increase the levels of phase II detoxifying enzymes. In a study involving rats, star anise treatment significantly reduced liver nodules and improved antioxidant enzyme activities, suggesting its potential in cancer prevention1.

Hepatoprotective and Nephroprotective Effects

Star anise has been found to offer protective effects against liver and kidney damage. Studies have demonstrated its ability to reverse liver enzyme elevation and preserve tissue architecture in cases of benzopyrene-induced damage. This suggests that star anise could serve as a hepatoprotective and nephroprotective agent2 9.

Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of star anise have been explored in various studies. For instance, a clinical trial using star anise mouthwash showed significant reductions in oral microbial counts and inflammation, highlighting its potential as a natural remedy for oral health3.

Antioxidant Effects

Star anise is also noted for its antioxidant properties. It has been shown to enhance antioxidant enzyme activities in both serum and liver tissues, which can help mitigate oxidative stress. This is particularly beneficial in improving the health and performance of animals, such as broiler chickens and laying hens, when included in their diets5 8.

Gastroprotective Effects

In addition to its other health benefits, star anise has demonstrated gastroprotective effects. A study found that star anise extract significantly reduced gastric lesions in rats induced by ethanol, outperforming traditional medications like ranitidine in some cases10.

Learn more with Consensus:

Adverse Effects of Star Anise

Hepatoprotective and Nephroprotective Effects: Star anise has shown protective effects against liver and kidney damage induced by toxic compounds like benzopyrene and Etoposide in animal studies. It helps in reversing elevated liver enzymes and kidney markers, indicating its role in protecting these organs from damage2 4.

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties: Star anise has demonstrated the ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. It enhances antioxidant enzyme activities and reduces markers of oxidative damage in various tissues, which suggests a protective role rather than adverse effects6 8.

Immune System Support: In studies involving benzopyrene-induced immune dysfunction, star anise was found to mitigate immunotoxicity, suggesting it supports rather than harms the immune system3.

Learn more with Consensus:

How has Star Anise Improved Patient Outcomes?

Oral Health Benefits

Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Properties: A study demonstrated that a mouthwash containing Illicium verum (star anise) significantly improved oral health by reducing gingival inflammation, bleeding, and microbial count compared to a placebo. This suggests its potential as an effective oral hygiene product1.

Gastrointestinal Benefits

COVID-19 Symptom Relief: Aniseed powder, containing trans-anethole, was found to significantly alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, anorexia, and diarrhea in COVID-19 patients. This improvement is attributed to its anti-inflammatory and anti-infective properties, although it did not significantly affect nausea, vomiting, or bloating2.

Animal Health and Development

Broiler Chickens: In animal studies, star anise and its essential oil improved body weight, relative organ weight, and intestinal development in broiler chickens. The essential oil also enhanced meat quality by increasing inosinic acid concentration and reducing boiling loss in breast muscles3.

Learn more with Consensus:

Star Anise Mechanisms of Action

Antioxidant Mechanism

Star anise enhances antioxidant capacity by upregulating the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway. This leads to increased expression of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase, which help reduce oxidative stress1. The plant’s methanolic extract also acts as a strong antioxidant by scavenging free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress4.

Antimicrobial and Antibacterial Mechanism

Star anise exhibits significant antibacterial activity, particularly against multidrug-resistant bacteria such as MRSA and Acinetobacter baumannii. This is achieved through the inhibition and detachment of biofilm formation, which is crucial for bacterial survival and virulence2. The essential oil of star anise, rich in compounds like (E)-anethole, also shows potent antibacterial and antibiofilm activities, making it effective against foodborne bacteria10.

Anti-Inflammatory Mechanism

The methanolic extract of star anise reduces inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-1β. This anti-inflammatory action is linked to its ability to reduce oxidative stress, which often exacerbates inflammatory responses4.

Antiviral and Other Mechanisms

Star anise is known for its antiviral properties, partly due to shikimic acid, a precursor for the antiviral drug oseltamivir (Tamiflu®). It also modulates immune responses and apoptosis, which may contribute to its preventive effects against viral infections like COVID-195 7.

Learn more with Consensus:

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.