In fact, it’s one of the main active ingredients in Tamiflu, a popular medication for the treatment of influenza ( 7).Ĭurrently, star anise is the primary source of shikimic acid used for pharmaceutical product development. Shikimic acid is a compound with strong antiviral capabilities. One of the most popular pharmacologically relevant attributes of star anise is its shikimic acid content. Its rise in popularity is largely driven by its antimicrobial properties and pharmacological potential. Star anise has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years and has also been accepted into some Western medicine practices more recently. Star anise is rich in a variety of flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds that may contribute to its medicinal capacity.
Ultimately, more research is needed to better understand how the bioactive compounds in star anise may support human health.
Some animal and test-tube research indicates that the antioxidant capacity of this spice may even possess anti-cancer properties, such as reducing tumor size ( 5, 6). Together, these compounds may contribute to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of star anise. Some of the major health-promoting compounds found in star anise include ( 2, 3, 4): These may primarily be responsible for the spice’s broad applications and medicinal benefits ( 2). The most valuable component of star anise may lie within its dense supply of flavonoids and polyphenols. Nonetheless, it’s an impressive source of several powerful bioactive compounds - all of which are vital contributors to good health. Information on its vitamin and mineral content is lacking, but considering the small amount of spice you may use at any one time, its nutritional value may be less significant ( 1). Herbs and spices are often unsung heroes of the health and nutrition world and star anise may be no exception.