Star Anise better known as Chakra Phool is an exotic star shaped spice derived from seed pods of the fruit of the Illicium verum plant. This aromatic herb has been a quintessential ingredient in Indian and Chinese cuisines for more than 3000 years. Indigenous to South-Eastern China, Star Anise exudes Licorice-like flavour and a sweet taste.
The seeds of this spice are extracted from the star-shaped hull of the fruit. Once sun dried, the fruit turns brown in colour which can be ground to a powder or can be consumed the way it is. Besides augmenting the flavour of every recipe, it is added into, this herb has an extensive history in traditional medicine and has been used for thousands of years in conventional medical applications. The oil derived from Star Anise seeds is highly fragrant and so it is widely used in perfumes, soaps, toothpastes, mouthwashes, and skin creams.
Also Read: 5 Powerful Spices That Enhances Overall Health And Well-being - Infographic
Healing Health Benefits of Star Anise
Star Anise is low on the glycaemic index with an impressive amount of powerful antioxidants, therefore it is strongly recommended to be added in diabetic friendly diets. Antioxidants and compounds present in the spice help the body in maintaining blood sugar levels.
This spice has powerful anti-fungal properties. It has been a trusted natural remedy for many fungal infections, including Athlete’s foot, ringworm besides other common strains. A regular dosage of star anise infused tea strengthens the immune system and provides a boost against these pathogens.
Star anise possesses certain sedative properties attributed to the magnesium content of the spice. It can stimulate the release of certain neurotransmitters that induce relaxation and sleep. It is extremely beneficial for people who have insomnia and irregular sleep patterns.
The liver is the main detoxification organ that uses various enzymes to process, filter and remove body’s toxins. The body responds to the influx of free radicals by increasing inflammation through raising various cytokine levels. Phytonutrients present in Star Anise reduce oxidative stress and protect various body tissues including the liver.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Use Of Chakra Phool?
Chakra Phool, also known as star anise, is used in:
Indian and Asian cooking for its licorice-like flavour especially in biryanis, masalas, and other gravies.
It is widely used as a key ingredient in traditional medicine for treating colds, coughs, indigestion, and flu symptoms
Aromatherapy and tea infusions to relieve stress and aid digestion
What Is The Indian Name For Star Anise?
In India, star anise is commonly called "Chakra Phool", which means "wheel flower" due to its star-like shape.
Who Should Avoid Star Anise?
Star anise is safe and well tolerated by most healthy adults, however pregnant or breastfeeding women should limit its intake.
Infants and small children should limit their intake due to potential contamination with toxic Japanese star anise
People with hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer should avoid, as it may have mild estrogen-like effects
Those on certain medications like blood thinners may interact with them
Is Star Anise Harmful?
True star anise (Illicium verum) is generally safe in food amounts.
However, Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum) is toxic and can cause:
Nausea, seizures, restlessness, and even neurotoxicity
To avoid harm, buy only food-grade or culinary star anise from trusted sources.
Why Cannot I Eat Star Anise?
You can eat culinary star anise, but whole pods are not usually consumed directly; they are removed after cooking due to their strong flavour and hard texture.
Toxic star anise variants (e.g., Japanese star anise) must be avoided entirely.
Does Star Anise Raise BP?
Star anise does not raise blood pressure in normal dietary amounts. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may support heart health. However, those with low blood pressure (hypotension) should be cautious with large doses or concentrated extracts.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile:
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics, including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
Star anise (Illicium verum): Chemical compounds, antiviral properties, and clinical relevance
Jayanta Kumar Patra 1, Gitishree Das 1, Sankhadip Bose 2, Sabyasachi Banerjee 3, Chethala N Vishnuprasad 4, Maria Del Pilar Rodriguez-Torres 5, Han-Seung Shin 6
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31997473/
Star Anise: A review on benefits, biological activities and potential uses, Tabinda Boota, Rafia Rehman
National University of Medical Sciences
Ayesha Mushtaq
University of Chakwal
Elham Kazerooni
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/336825719_Star_Anise_A_review_on_benefits_biological_activities_and_potential_uses
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