ANISE, STAR - ORGANIC
Illicium verum

History and Folklore
The highly aromatic star anise is not related to common aniseed, although the two species have a similar smell. Star Anise, a member of the magnolia family, has a sweeter and richer aroma than the common Aniseed. Its Chinese name, Ba Jiao Hui Xian, translates as 8 horned Fennel. The essential oil of Star Anise frequently dons its flavour to soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, soaps and toothpaste. The woody shell surrounding the seeds yields more essential oil than the fruit itself. Chinese Star Anise has sometimes been confused with its close relative, the Japanese Star Anise, whose fruits look similar, but are highly toxic. Unlike Japanese Star Anise, true Star Anise never tastes bitter. In Japan, the local variety of Star Anise, Illicium anisatum (syn. Illicium religiosa) is highly revered as a Shikimi or Buddha tree and is often planted in temple gardens and on burial grounds. The bark and fruit are often ground into powder and used as incense. In western herbalism star anise is not used medicinally, but plays a role in cooking, usually as a spice for Chinese or Asian dishes.

Medicinal Uses:
In China it is not only an important spice and used in the composition of the Chinese 5 spice mixture, but is also used medicinally for rheumatism, lower back pain and hernia. It is warming, stimulating and diuretic and is also used as a digestive aid for flatulence and indigestion.

Magical Uses:
The oil can be used in cleansing waters for ritual purification and cleansing ceremonies. As a magical perfume or anointing oil it is used to protect against negative energies and to attract good spirits. Star Anise can be burnt as incense or used as an offering to lend wings to prayers, open the doors to the heavens and to please the Gods. Used in rites of passage it gives direction to the soul and helps it connect with its highest purpose.

BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.

USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.

CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.