Organic star anise , with its distinctive shape and flavour, is fast becoming one of the world’s most sought-after spices, especially for its potential health benefits.
Its relative availability and price make it an excellent choice for culinary and medicinal uses worldwide.
What is star anise?
Star anise is actually the hardened fruit of a tree known scientifically as Illicium verum. This hardened fruit, which originates from South-East Asia and parts of China, is often ground into a powder that is used as a spice in certain products and dishes. It has been used for thousands of years in culinary and traditional medicine. The name star anise is a combination of its similarity in shape and taste to aniseed. Although the plants are not related, the anethole in both plants imparts the distinctive flavour of liquorice, which makes it so popular in cooking. The most popular spices containing star anise are the Chinese ‘5 spice blend ‘ and the Indian ‘Garam masala’. This star-shaped spice is highly coveted for its active chemical compounds, especially those found in star anise oil. This star also contains a compound called shikimic acid, which is a very important part of anti-flu medicines worldwide. The extraction and processing of this acid takes a whole year, so the price of star anise is largely determined by the global demand for flu medicines.
Star anise facts
Star anise is rich in antioxidants such as linalool, quercetin, thymol, terpineol, caffeic acid, anethole, kaempferol and coumaric acid, as well as high levels of iron.
In addition, there are lower levels of vitamin C, calcium, potassium and magnesium.
Other active compounds and organic acids, such as shikimic acid, fats and dietary fibres, also give star anise additional health benefits.
The calorie count of star anise is also relatively low at only 23 calories per 1 tablespoon.
Use of
Organic star anise is used in desserts, cakes, compotes and tea.
Star anise tea
Star anise tea is produced all over the world as a reliable remedy for many respiratory diseases, gastrointestinal disorders and hormone imbalances.
The tea is easy to prepare and delicious!
Ingredients:
300 ml water
2 star anise
Sweetener to taste
Instructions:
Bring the water to the boil in a small saucepan or kettle
Pour the water over the aniseed fruit
Cook over low heat for 10-15 minutes.
Remove the aniseed and sweeten to taste.
Serve hot and drink 2-3 times a day for best effect.
NOTE.
The information contained herein is not to be construed as a recommendation for treatment or other health issues.
We encourage you to make personal health decisions based on your own personal experience and consideration of a variety of sources of information.