Health Benefits of Star Anise
By Madhusudhan Tammisetti
Star anise is a popular spice used across the world for its vibrant flavor, which adds a new taste to various dishes. It's extracted from the fruit of an evergreen shrub that's native to the regions of southern China and northern Vietnam. It's also called badia or Chinese star anise and has the scientific name Illicium verum.
The star anise's health benefits include preventing digestive problems, mosquito repellant, assisting in lactation, easing menopause symptoms, protecting you during flu season, supporting good sleep, fighting fungal, promoting blood formation, promoting bone health, and promoting skin health. Other benefits include lowering cancer risk and combating pelvic yeast infection.
Lowers the Risk of Cancer
Rare phytochemicals found in star anise, such as quercetin, anethole, kaempferol, and coumaric acid, have potent anti-inflammatory properties. By minimizing the impact of oxidative damage on cells, the danger of malignant transformations is reduced. Cancer is defined by aberrant cell proliferation, and it's considered that damage at the cellular level triggers it.
Helps in Lactation
Following the birth of their kid, new moms may have difficulty in producing milk, particularly if it's their first child or if the baby was delivered through a caesarean section. Remedies may be taken to boost milk production at this time. The substance anethole is thought to have a structural resemblance to dopamine that may decrease prolactin secretion. Milk production increases when dopamine is dislodged.
Good for Bone Health
Calcium, a key component of bone, is abundant in star anise. Osteoporosis and rapid bone loss are caused due to calcium deficiency. This is particularly important for post-menopausal women. They are at a greater risk of falling and fracturing because estrogen's protective effects on their bones have worn off.
May Induce Sleep
Insomnia is caused due to various factors, but in otherwise healthy persons, anxiety and stress are often the culprits. Anxiety produces an increase in adrenalin levels that has a stimulating effect and results in sleep deprivation. Star anise aids in the modulation of certain of these hormones and neurotransmitters, resulting in mild sedative effects. When you're having trouble sleeping, try a cup of star anise tea every night and see the difference.
Good for Skin Health
Collagen is considered skin's most important structural protein and also helps in maintaining its integrity. Vitamin C is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which may help you prevent wrinkles and premature aging. Star anise contains Vitamin A, which helps deflect some UV rays and prevents damage from occurring as a consequence of excessive exposure. Vitamin A may help to reduce the appearance of acne scars and stretch marks, giving the skin a new dimension of well-being.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mayfield Heights, Ohio.