Ba Jiao Hui Xian, Staranise tree

Illicium verum

Physical Characteristics

Illicium verum is an evergreen Tree growing to 5 m (16ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from March to May, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Vietnam.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: The fruit is used as a flavouring in curries, teas and pickles[2, 132, 177, 238]. It is an ingredient of 'five spice powder', used in Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine[238]. The fruit is also chewed after meals in order to sweeten the breath[4]. Caution is advised because it is said to be poisonous in quantity[19, 177]. The essential oil is used to flavour liqueurs, soft drinks and bakery products[238].

Medicinal Uses

Antibacterial Appetizer Carminative Expectorant Homeopathy Stimulant The fruit is antibacterial, carminative, diuretic, odontalgic, stimulant, and stomachic. It is taken internally in the treatment of abdominal pain, digestive disturbances and complaints such as lumbago. It is often included in remedies for digestive disturbances and cough mixtures, in part at least for its pleasant aniseed flavour. An effective remedy for various digestive upsets, including colic, it can be safely given to children. The fruit is also often chewed in small quantities after meals in order to promote digestion and to sweeten the breath. The fruit has an antibacterial affect similar to penicillin. The fruit is harvested unripe when used for chewing, the ripe fruits being used to extract essential oil and are dried for use in decoctions and powders. A homeopathic remedy is prepared from the seed.

Known Hazards

The fruit is poisonous in quantity[19, 177].