Why nutritionists love star anise. See health benefits

Benefits by Leticia Soares

Star anise has antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Star anise is rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, tri-terpenoids, saponins, tannins and anthraquinones along with repository of reducing sugars, amino acids and proteins. Star anise is also a natural deposit of shikimic acid, a substance that is used in the pharmaceutical industry to produce antiviral drug, which are used to treat infections related to the Influenza A and B viruses.
Star anise is rich in antioxidant compounds. Like most aromatic plants, star anise has a good antioxidant action due to the presence of phenolic compounds in its composition. Antioxidants scavenge free radicals from the body cells and prevent or reduce damage caused by oxidation. A diet rich in antioxidants may reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers.
Star anise may help fight yeast infections. Star anise is rich in anethole, which has a strong action against several types of microorganisms, including fungi such as Candida albicans and Botrytis cinerea.

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Star Anise has different properties such as antioxidant capacity (given by quercetin and shikimic acid), antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, sedative, expectorant and estrogen effects.
Star Anise seeds have different compounds such as athenole and terpineol which may contribute to cough relief.

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Star Anise is antiseptic, the infused oil being used to prevent infections. Star Anise is antiviral, the seeds being used in producing shikimic acid, a main component of antiviral medicines. Star Anise is antibacterial, the oil being used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine.

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