Baldwins Anise (star) ( Iillicum Verum )

100% Pure Star Anise

Star anise (Illicium verum) closely ressembles the flavour of anise (due to the constituent anethole which they both share) but is a different plant, a tree in fact, evergreen and originating in Southwestern China and Northeastern Vietnam.

An interesting fact: 90% of the worlds crop is used for extraction of shikimic acid, this acid is then used to synthesise the anti-viral medication Oseltamivir - known widely by its trade name - Tamiflu.

Japanese Star Anise (Illicium anisatum) is a similar looking herb with very dire consequences if taken - highly toxic & inedible, the variety we sell is only ever Chinese Star Anise - Illicium verum.

Traditionally used to treat respiratory tract infection, it is also prized for its calminative effects (great for wind and other digestive tract problems).