Star anise, also known as star anise, is native to southwestern China. It is widely used in Chinese cuisine and is one of the ingredients in "Five Spice Powder," along with Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, cloves, and fennel.
There is also the Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum), with fruits very similar to Illium verun, but which must be identified correctly to avoid confusion. The Japanese star anise is highly poisonous.
Star anise essential oil is an excellent hormonal regulator for menstrual problems and menopause. It also has notable expectorant and mucolytic properties. Like all anise-based essential oils (dill, fennel, etc.), it eases difficult digestion.
Precautions: Do not use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Do not use in children. Do not use in people with hormone-dependent conditions.
100% pure organic essential oil of Illicium verum (QT. trans anethole) from Vietnam, obtained from the seeds.