Star Anise: Benefits, Dosage, Contraindications

Hypoglycemic

Star anise shows promising hypoglycemic properties, as demonstrated in an animal model of diabetes. Administration of a dried fruit extract for 7 weeks reduced blood glucose levels, urea, and advanced glycation end-products, while improving lipid levels and liver function tests. In vitro, the extract inhibits the glycation of proteins and lipids, a phenomenon exacerbated by hyperglycemia and contributing to diabetic complications such as nephropathy, retinopathy, and neuropathy. The flavonoids and flavonols present in star anise combat glycation by neutralizing free radicals and chelating metal ions.

Antimicrobial

A study conducted by Minakshi De and colleagues reveals that star anise has antimicrobial properties, mainly attributable to anethole, an active component found in the dried fruit. Research has shown that the star anise extract, especially the alcoholic extract, is effective against a variety of microbes, including bacteria, yeasts, and fungi. Anethole isolated from the extract demonstrated inhibitory activity on the growth of Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

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Antiviral

Although star anise contains shikimic acid, used as a raw material in the synthesis of the neuraminidase inhibitor oseltamivir (Tamiflu), there is no reliable evidence showing that star anise itself possesses antiviral activity.

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Neurological

The shikimic acid in star anise provides a neuroprotective effect against oxidative stress, potentially useful in neurodegenerative pathologies. Moreover, star anise acts as a potent inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase, affirming its role as an anti-cholinesterase agent. Additionally, the inhalation of trans-anethole shows a significant anxiolytic effect, suggesting a sedative potential.

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