10 benefits of star anise, an anti-inflammatory spice

Star anise won the world because of its medicinal and culinary use! When consumed, it provides some effects, such as antiseptic, soothing and anti-inflammatory capacity. To learn more, see the main benefits, contraindications and a great tea recipe with this spice!

10 benefits of star anise to include it in your daily life

In addition to the striking and fragrant aroma of star anise, nutritionist Juliana Zanetti (CRN: 19512), from BP – Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, listed the 10 main benefits. Check out!

• It has an antiseptic effect: Juliana explains that it has a strong action against various types of microorganisms, due to the presence of a substance called atenol.
• Acts as an antibacterial: on account of atenol, which works against microorganisms.
• It is anti-inflammatory: a benefit also caused by atenol.
• It has a calming action: which promotes the feeling of relaxation, as it contains vitamin B complex, which acts on the nervous system.
• Aids in digestion: consumption of tea, after meals, aids in digestion and prevents the accumulation of gases.
• It has a diuretic effect: when ingested in the form of tea, it acts in the process of filtering and absorbing water, intensifying the urinary flow.
• It contributes to the feeling of relaxation: benefit also derived from the vitamin B complex, with action on the nervous system.
• Improves Sleep Quality: Due to its sleep-inducing ability, star anise improves and promotes a sense of well-being.
• Helps with headaches: due to the analgesic effect of this spice.
• Helps to improve abdominal pain: thanks to the analgesic effect, which combats abdominal pain caused by gas.

Despite its beneficial effects, star anise should be avoided by some people. Follow the details about the contraindications in the next topic!

Is star anise bad for you? Learn more about contraindications

According to Juliana, this spice should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation. It also needs to be avoided by people with hyperestrogenism.

Another contraindication is for children, patients with gastritis and gastroduodenal ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, liver diseases, epilepsy, Parkinson’s and neurological diseases.

Star anise tea for you to enjoy the benefits

Write down how to make a perfect star anise tea, providing diuretic effects and acting against gas and poor digestion, among other indications.

• Use 1 teaspoon of star anise for 1 liter of water;
• Place the star anise in the boiling water and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes;
• Then, remove the star anise and let it cool;
• Drink 1 cup of tea 2 to 3 times a day;
• To improve or change the taste, a slice of lemon, fennel and chamomile can be added.

In addition to this recipe, you can take a look at 10 other anti-inflammatory tea alternatives, which will bring pain relief and help you diversify recipes with medicinal purposes!

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.