Star Anise Essential Oil

Star Anise (Illicium verum), also known as Chinese Star Anise, is an evergreen tree native to China and Vietnam. The trees grow to a height of 26 feet, with dark green leaves and star-shaped fruits that are harvested before ripening and then sun-dried.

Star anise is often confused with anise seed. Although they may have similar names, they have quite distinctive characteristics. First, they come from different regions. Star anise is from china, while anise is from the Mediterranean region. Finally, when it comes to the aroma, star anise oil is milder and slightly bitter. Anise seed oil, on the other hand is highly aromatic, and is more potent.

In ancient Europe, star anise was used to flavor liqueurs as it was considered to have the ability to lower alcohol toxicity. In addition, in traditional Chinese medicine, it was used to treat various digestive problems, including bloating, indigestion, and stomach pain. In the same way, they also used it for respiratory conditions like bronchitis and severe coughs.

Today, star anise is a popularly used spice in Indian and Chinese cuisines to add flavor to their meat and other vegetarian dishes. In manufacturing, it is used in the making of soaps, perfumes, and toothpaste.

Star anise essential oil is steam distilled from the dried fruits. The oil is a pale yellow to a clear liquid, with a medium perfumery note almost similar to anise seed oil, but milder. The primary chemical properties include limonene, linalool, Cinnamyl Acetate, anethole, and myrcene.

Moreover, it blends perfectly well with a range of other complementary oils, to name a few; dill, sweet fennel, cardamon, lavender, cedarwood, and rosewood.

Star anise essential oil has various health benefits attributed to its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Below, we get to discuss some of these health benefits.

1. Improves Respiratory Health

Star anise oil contains properties that help eliminate bacteria and viruses that cause infections along the respiratory tract—making it an effective natural remedy for colds, flu, bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments.

When inhaled, star anise oil has a cooling and refreshing effect, providing relief from cough and cold symptoms. You may also add a few drops to boiling water and inhale the steam.

2. Stimulates Digestive Health

Traditionally, star anise oil was valued for its effect on the digestive system and has been used to treat stomach discomfort, indigestion, nausea, and bloating. For relief, add a few drops of star anise oil to a carrier oil, then massage your abdominal area. To reduce nausea, inhale the sweet aroma from the bottle or diffuse it in the air. Also, consuming star anise tea will help relieve some of these digestive problems.

3. Relieves pain

We all experience mild pain and discomfort occasionally. Most of the times, we opt for over the counter pain relievers. The good news is there are organic remedies like the use of essential oils that can help alleviate the pain. For instance, star anise essential oil contains analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which provide significant relief from joint and muscle pain.

Mix a few drops of star anise oil to a carrier oil and gently apply it to the affected areas. Alternatively, add a few drops to a warm bath. However, for chronic pain, always seek medical advice.

4. Prevents infection

Studies show that star anise essential oil is an effective antibacterial agent making it an excellent alternative to fighting bacteria topically. Especially on cuts and wounds, thus the oil protects you from other severe infections such as tetanus. Combine a few drops of the oil with a carrier oil, then apply on the wounded area twice daily. In case of any irritation; stop using the oil immediately.

5. Insect Repellent

Star anise oil produces a scent that can repel mosquitoes and other insects. Not only that, the antifungal and antiseptic qualities of this oil can help soothe the skin after a mosquito bite. You can dilute a few drops of the oil to a carrier oil and apply topically, especially on your ankles and arms. Alternatively, dilute a few drops of the oil with water in a spritz bottle and spray it on your skin, clothes, and around your home.

Star anise oil can interact with anticoagulant drugs, thus may inhibit blood clotting. Therefore, it is essential to consult your health provider before using this oil.

When purchasing this particular oil, it is vital to check the botanical name to not confuse it with the similar but toxic Japanese star anise.

For topical use, it is crucial always to dilute star anise oil with a carrier oil. A skin patch test is recommended before use for people with sensitive skin.

Keep out of reach of children, and it should not be used on children under five years. Pregnant and nursing women, as well as people with underlying health conditions like cancer, should also avoid using this oil.

Star anise oil contains anethole, which studies show is safe to use on pets. This is because it can kill free radicals, hence protecting your pet from harmful bacteria and viruses. Even so, always consult your veterinarian before using this oil on your pet.