Better known under the name of star anise, star anise comes to us from China, where it occupies a place of choice in the traditional pharmacopoeia. Fruit of the badian tree (Illicium verum), it is illustrated as well by its particular shape a star composed most often of 8 branches, called carpels, each containing a brilliant seed as by its powerful aroma. reminiscent of anise Where fennel, or by its many health benefits.
Remarkable digestive properties
Star anise is particularly interesting from a digestive point of view. “It regulates intestinal spasms, due to stress for example, helps to reduce gas formation and facilitates their elimination “, explains Gilles Dreux, dietitian, dietetic manager of the Thalazur Carnac center. It is no coincidence that it is used in the composition of aniseed alcohols, tasted as an aperitif or as a digestif!
To this is added a detox effect because it boosts bile secretion through the liver. It is also a good dewormer, which can be useful for those who eat raw or undercooked raw vegetables, meat and fish. The ideal is to consume it after the meal (in herbal tea), in order to stimulate digestion. And if the meal was a little loaded with garlic, you can bite into a few seeds to find fresh breath!
Antibacterial action
“Star anise has recognized antibacterial and antiviral properties”, emphasizes our expert. It clears the respiratory tract by thinning the bronchial and nasal secretions, and it calm cough. The shikimic acid it contains is even used, after processing, in some treatments against influenza.
Analgesic and anti-inflammatory, star anise helps relieve muscle pain and articular (arthritis, rheumatism, body aches after a sporting activity …) as well as those related to urinary tract infections. “This aromatic fruit is also endowed with estrogenic virtues, it helps to counteract hot flashes linked to menopause “, adds Gilles Dreux. Finally, it is a good stimulant which helps to reduce physical fatigue, anxiety and depression.
Ideas for every day
- In infusion: add 5 small stars to 25 cl of boiling water. Let infuse 10 min, filter. You can try a star anise-verbena mix (a handful of dry leaves).
- Foil : in a silicone foil (or baking paper), place a bed of chopped onions and a fillet of fresh or frozen cod. Add a little carrots and julienned zucchini, a drizzle of olive oil and a star anise. Salt and pepper and bake for 10 minutes in the oven at 180 ° C (th. 6).
- In the cooking water: slip 1 or 2 stars in the cooking water of the rice or pasta to delicately flavor them. You can also add a star to vegetable or shellfish broth or to a marinade.
Star anise compote recipe
- Cook over low heat 1 peach, 2 plums cut into cubes in 2 tbsp. tablespoon of water.
- Add 1 tsp. tablespoon sugar and 1 star anise, until you obtain a compote.
- Place in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before tasting.
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