Anise Star (Illicum verum)

History: The plant originates from the Orient but, like most herbs, grows both in the wild and cultivated state around the Mediterranean and especially in Egypt and the Middle East. It is cultivated in Spain, France and Russia. It can be cultivated further north, but it rarely sets seed.
It was introduced to northern Europe by the Romans, and early settlers took it to North America. It was used by the Romans as a digestive – in a cake eaten after meals containing other digestive seeds such as cumin and fennel – and by the Ancient Egyptians to help digestion of their millet and barley breads.

Star anise is a native plant of Asia and commonly used in traditional cultures to spice food, reduce intestinal gas, aid digestion, and as a diuretic. It also promotes vitality and strength. It is reported that Star Anise is a key ingredient in Tamiflu. Has been used to adulterate anise seed (pimpinella ansium). Sometimes confused with Japanese Star Anise (Illicum religlosum) which is a poison. Animals like the smell and it can be used in animal feed. Star anise's primary constituent is anethole. In ancient days, Anethole was named for the area now considered Turkey and was referred to as the home of the goddess.

Clinical Studies:

Indications: Antispasmodic and has estrogen qualities. Used in menopause to ease symptoms especially for hot flashes. Used for colitis spasms, flatulence, burping. Good for Post Traumatic Syndrome - memories are softened and easier to deal with, stabilizes trauma.

Personality Profile:

Subtle Aromatherapy:

Mode of Administration: Bath (with proper carrier oil), inhaler, massage, mist spray, steam inhalation.

Safety: Low dosage safe, skin irritant, possible carcinogen, avoid in pregnancy.

References:
Battaglia, S.  The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy; Third Edition The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2017
Tisserand R. Young R.  Essential Oil Safety, second edition.  Churchhill Livingstone, UK, 2013
Sheppard-Hanger S. The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual.  Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy, USA, 2000
Caddy R. Essential Oils in Colour.  Amberwood Publishing, UK, 2005
Lawless J. The encyclopaedia of Essential Oils.  Element Books Limited, GB, 1992
Caddy R. the Essential Blending Guide.  Amberwood Publishing, UK, 2007
Weaver W.W. Sauer’s Herbal Cures.  Routledge, UK, 2001
World Wide Web Encyclopedia Britannica. USA, 2014
Photos attribution – istock Photos
LabAroma

Safety Considerations:
        Do not take essential oils internally.
        Do not apply to eyes, sensitive areas or mucous membranes.
        Do not apply undiluted to skin (for directions on proper dilution refer to an aromatherapy text).
        The information on this website is not intended to diagnose or prescribe.
        Pregnant women, nursing mothers and children should not use essential oils without first consulting a healthcare provider.
        The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA.
        You should not use this information for treating a health problem or disease or to make a self-diagnosis.
        Contact your Health Care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem.

Information and statements regarding Kelley products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition or disease. 
All information, content and product descriptions contained within this site is for reference purposes and is not intended to substitute advice given by a pharmacist, physician, or other licensed health-care professional. You should not use this information for treating a health problem or disease or to make a self-diagnosis.  
Contact your Health Care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem.