STAR ANISE, ALSO CALLED BADIANA, CHINESE ANISE, AND JIAO HUI XIAN, IS CULTIVATED IN ITS NATIVE CHINA AND INDOCHINA

The fruits, or more correctly the seedpods, are star-shaped, giving it the name of Star Anise. Star Anise is sometimes chewed after meals to freshen breath and stimulate digestion.

It is used extensively in Chinese cooking, and is a part of the "five spice powder", along with cinnamon, cloves, fennel, and prickly ash, which all have medicinal value of their own.

Star Anise is used to control flatulence and nausea, and is considered an antispasmodic for the gastrointestinal system. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It has been used for its mild diuretic properties, and for its expectorant qualities in the treatment of bronchitis. Star Anise is also a popular remedy for rheumatism and colic. Star Anise contains a wide range of essential oils.

STAR ANISE HAS HIT THE NEWS RECENTLY BECAUSE IT IS USED IN PRODUCTION OF THE DRUG TAMIFLU

As of October 2005, Tamiflu is the only drug the world has which may reduce the severity of Bird Flu (also known as Avian Flu). It is important to note that the drug will not prevent Bird Flu, it will only reduce the severity of it.

Chinese star anise (scientific name Illicium verum) is a safe and flavorful component of some popular herbal tea blends, and it is also a flavor component of spice mixes used in food products.