Illicium verum, aka Chinese Star Anise, Badiane, steam distilled from the seeds, from China, social enterprise.

Aroma: Anise Star is a strong top note with a scent described as pungent and licorice-like.

Common Uses: Antispasmodic, Antifungal, anti-inflammatory. May help with: nervous exhaustion and stress, lumbago, arthritis, bronchitis, dull congested skin, and psoriasis.

Colour: A clear to pale yellow liquid.

Consistency: Thin

Note: Top

Strength of Aroma: Medium

Constituents: trans-anethole, methyl chavicol, Anisaldehyde, cisanethole

Cautions: For external use only. Should be diluted before skin application. Avoid contact with eyes and mouth. May cause skin irritation for some individuals, a skin patch test is recommended before use. Consult your healthcare professional before using essential oils during pregnancy.

Photo thanks to Retro Lenses, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons