Healing Star Anise
Beautiful & Powerful
Perfectly symmetrical and aesthetically appealing, star anise is a wonderful plant to cultivate. They have leathery, glossy, evergreen leaves grouped in three - or more-flowered clusters. The blooms have 7 to 12 petals each and can be yellowish green tinted with pink or dark crimson. It would look great as a centrepiece on a table or even in a vase of flowers!
Star anise, aka ‘chakra phool’, has a strong scent and flavour which derives from both the leaves and the blossoms of the plant. It has an earthy and delicately sweet palate, and it may be used in a variety of ways of cooking, particularly in Asian dishes. Star anise’s flavour is somewhere among cinnamon, cloves and liquorice… YUM!
Besides its beautiful appearance and mouth-watering taste it has a ton of benefits. The active chemicals that have a delightful smell and taste characteristic also have a variety of healing properties. Star anise studies and uses continue to expand, discovering additional advantages, from traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic treatments to current science. Let's take a deeper look at the medicinal properties of this exotically, popular spice.
Vitamins And Minerals In Star Anise:
Vitamin A
Vitamin E
Vitamin C
Vitamin B-complex
Copper
Iron
Calcium
Potassium
Manganese
Selenium
Zinc
Magnesium
Star Anise As Digestive Aid:
Star anise has been used extensively in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine to treat many digestive disorders such as stomach discomfort, infections, constipation, and indigestion.
Star anise, like many spices, has a significant amount of fiber (over 1 gram per table spoon). Fiber binds to water, stimulating the digestive tract and relieving constipation. Fiber also binds to bile salts (which are formed from cholesterol), reducing their re-absorption in the colon and decreasing LDL (or "bad") cholesterol levels.
Studies also showed that using star anise decreases abdominal pain in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The micronutrients within star anise (iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium and manganese) enhance digestion. These nutrients boost the enzymatic function of the body and reduce bloating issues - keeping your tummy happy and healthy :)
Star Anise For Bone Health:
The powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammation properties of star anise have been found to enhance organ and tissue function, including bone. It contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and vitamin K, all of which contribute to the bone-building process.
Star anise also contains anethole, a chemical that can mimic oestrogen and cause some of its effects. Osteoporosis is a common symptom of menopause that occurs as a result of oestrogen deficiency. Star anise is therefore your bodyguard against osteoporosis bone loss.
Star Anise For Pain and Inflammation:
Inflammation is the immune system's response to defend the body against infection, injury, and other potentially harmful substances. Star anise tonics, like tea, have been used since ancient times to reduce injury swelling, muscle and joint pain, including rheumatic arthritis.
The antioxidants within star anise:
Protects body cells
Reduce inflammation of muscles, joints and skin
Inhibits production of inflammation lipids
Decreases swelling, pain and oxidative stress
Star Anise For Improving Sleep:
Stress can produce not just oxidative stress or anxiety, but also restlessness or sleeplessness. The mind's high level of involvement stimulates the senses while inhibiting sleep. Star anise has calming effects and can modify the levels of some of the neurotransmitters and hormones involved. This amazing spice has a unique property of increasing levels of certain chemicals in one condition and lowering them in another. Magic, right!?
Star Anise with its soothing liquorice smell creates a aromatherapeutic effect. The active compounds in this miraculous spice reduces the energy flowing in your nervous system while improving serotonin levels. Feel good and sleep well. It’s a win-win combination!
We Use Star Anise In Our Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea!
A vibrant blend with rich flavours and a sprinkle of dried hibiscus flowers. When brewed, a deep, rose-gold colour will show itself. You will be amazed at what this brew does for your mood… it really is a delightful lift!
From improving digestion to beating insomnia - star anise has got you covered. All in all this is one amazing SUPER-SPICE!
To your vibrant health!
The Taka Tea(m)
