Spices

Star Anise

Star Anise

Star Anise

Star Anise is a star-shaped spice known for its distinctive licorice-like aroma and sweet-spicy flavor. It's widely used in culinary preparations, especially in Asian cuisines, and is equally treasured in Ayurveda for its digestive, antifungal, and immunity-boosting properties. Its strong aromatic profile makes it a staple in spice blends like garam masala and herbal teas.

Description

At Farm Ayurveda, our Star Anise is sourced naturally from trusted farms and sun-dried to preserve its essential oils. It is a powerful ingredient in both cooking and traditional remedies, helping balance doshas and promote overall health.

History

Star Anise originated in southern China and Vietnam and has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. It was introduced to Ayurveda and Indian kitchens due to trade across Asia and became an important component in digestive tonics and aromatic spice blends. Today, it is used worldwide for its flavor and therapeutic value, especially in immunity-boosting and respiratory remedies.

Specification

Product Name Star Anise
Origin India
Family Schisandraceae
Binomial name Illicium verum

Features & Characteristics

Color Reddish-brown to dark brown
Taste and Smell Sweet, spicy, and licorice-like aroma
Quality Warm, aromatic, digestive; balances vata and kapha

Ingredients

Nutrients Rich in flavonoids and polyphenols
Minerals Iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese
Vitamins Vitamin A, B-complex (B1, B2, B3, B6)
Protein Approx. 10–12%
Fats Low; contains essential oils like anethole

Uses of Star Anise

Added to soups, teas, curries, and biryanis for rich aroma.

Used in spice blends like garam masala and Chinese five-spice.

Infused in warm water for digestive relief.

Used in Ayurveda for respiratory and gut issues.

Boiled with other herbs in immunity decoctions.

Benefits of Star Anise

Improves digestion and reduces bloating.

Possesses antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

Boosts immunity and helps prevent infections.

Relieves cold, cough, and sore throat.

Acts as a natural antioxidant.

Helps regulate blood sugar and inflammation.

Supports hormonal balance in women.

Enhances appetite and metabolism.