Star anise

Indian anise, Chinese anise, badyan, ship anise, Siberian anise are all the names of the same plant, the birthplace of which is East and Southeast Asia, as well as North America. This evergreen tree reaches a height of 8-10 meters. It has green fragile branches and fruits in the form of stars. Their color can be light brown or dark red. As a rule, one asterisk consists of 8 fruits, less often of 1

2.

The first mention of star anise in ancient times was left by the Chinese. It was actively used by peasants in the preparation of essential oils. In addition, badyan was added to tea and coffee for freshness of breath. In Europe, it appeared only in the 16th century and immediately became very popular. He became a curiosity in every house and was affordable only to wealthy citizens.

Basically, the badyan is presented on supermarket shelves in the form of stars and grains. It tastes sweet-fragrant, has a touch of sharpness. In smell, it resembles a standard anise, while having a serious difference: the badyan does not contain clickiness.

Benefits of star anise

The main beneficial properties of the plant are the content of a large amount of useful substances in it. The seeds of badyan contain a large amount of fatty and essential oils, sugar, mineral salts, organic acids, malic acid, as well as anetol, which is an important component of essential oil.

Star anise is actively used in cooking. It is especially popular when added to confectionery. Usually, a base is used - dried fruits, while seeds are added as a spicy aromatic additive. The bucket is no less popular when added to poultry, when harvesting preservation or when preparing marinades. Often star anise is found in alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, giving them their unique taste and aroma.

In medicine, the root is mainly taken. It is used in treatment of bronchi, sore throat and respiratory tract. Also, star anise favorably affects the general immunity of a person, on his nervous and endocrine systems.

Harms from eating star anise

The harm from the use of this wonderful additive is stated only if a person has individual intolerance. In this case, you need to seek advice from a specialist, and stop using star anise.