Anise Star

ANISE STAR

(Illicium Verum)

The dark brown, almost rust colored, star shaped pods are truly unique. They have 6 pointed arms around with a small seed inside each one. They naturally have a licorice aroma and a clove like taste. The pods come from the evergreen shrub, Illicium Verum. The plant originates in Asia, and in this post I am referring to the Chinese Star Anise.

MEDICINAL USES

• Antioxidant, Anti-fungal, Antiviral, Antibacterial, Insecticidal, Sedative, and Estrogenic properties and effects

• Good for join health

• Improves digestion

• Improves sleep

• It is the source of the precursor molecule -shikimic acid- which is the main ingredient used to synthesize Tamiflu.

• Improves cough and chest colds

• Good for women's health and improves estrogen production

CAUTIONS

• Always ensure the plant is not mistaken for Japanese Star Anise has this is related to another species and should not be ingested, it can be used for aromatherapy and skin application.

• Another mistake is confusing it with the Aniseed plant, as that is also a complete different species of plants.

CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Anise is a Mediterranean herb with a smell similar to licorice. It is best grown in the warm seasons and it is an annual. Anise is easy enough to grow because it should be sown directly into the garden bed. When planting, the soil temperature should at least be 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant the anise seeds 1/2 inch deep and space them 1 inch apart. If planting in multiple rows, set the rows 2 to 3 feet apart. Anise prefers being grown in an alkaline soil with a pH between 6.3 and 7.0. The plants require full sun and soil that is well drained. Make sure to water the plants regularly because they require consistent watering until they are established. Once established, they can withstand periods of drought. It takes approximately 120 days from the planting date to harvest anise. Snip the leaves to use before the plant blooms, if you plan on using the leaves fresh.