Star Anise: A review on benefits, biological activities and potential uses

The Illicium verum (star anise) has long been used in traditional medicine and food industry with the actions of preventing cold, and relieving pain. Sometimes, it gets contaminated with highly poisonous Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum L.) which contains toxic sesquiterpenes. Traditional uses of Illicium verum are evidenced from south and west Asia, where it has been consumed for a number of disorders. Several bioactive constituents such as sesquiterpenes, phenylpropanoids, lignans, flavonoids and other compounds have been recognized from Illecium verum. The pharmacology studies demonstrated that its active compounds possess broad range of pharmacological uses, especially in cytotoxic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, sedative and antimicrobial activities. In addition, it is the chief source of anticancer agent (shikimic acid). Current review highlights the information relating to the botany, conventional uses, phyto-chemistry and pharmacology together with the toxicology of Illicium verum.

Source: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/336825719_Star_Anise_A_review_on_benefits_biological_activities_and_potential_uses