Star Anise Masala - Health Benefits, Uses and Important Facts

Star anise masala is a very unique spice, from its distinctive star-shaped appearance to its distinguishable aroma. In addition, it has  flavour, is really adaptable, and has a lot of chemicals that can improve your health.

Star anise masala benefits include eradicating bacteria and fungi, naturally warding off the flu, promoting heart health, offering a concentrated dose of antioxidants, and stabilising blood sugar levels.

Including this potent element in your diet may be precisely what you need to improve your health, especially when combined with a wholesome diet and an active lifestyle.

What is star anise?

Illicium verum, an evergreen tree species that is native to particular regions of China and Vietnam, is the source of star anise. The star anise fruit that the tree produces is used as a spice to enhance the flavour of numerous foods. Before it ripens, the fruit is picked, and it is then dried in the sun so that it can harden. It stands out for its distinctive star form, fiery orange hue, and potent perfume.

Many people describe the taste of star anise as sweet and licorice-like. It is regarded as a crucial component of five-spice powder, a Chinese cuisine spice blend that also contains cloves, Chinese cinnamon, fennel seeds, and Sichuan pepper. It is occasionally included in other spice blends, such as garam masala. Additionally frequently used in toothpaste, mouthwash, perfume, and cosmetics is the fruit's oil.

Numerous therapeutic elements found in star anise contribute to its extensive list of health advantages. Shikimic acid, the active component in flu treatments like Tamiflu, is actually extracted from star anise plants in large quantities nowadays. Other strong substances found in it include linalool, vitamin C, and anethole.

Culinary use of star anise masala:

It is commonly used in biryanis, chicken, seafood, and other vegetarian dishes due to its powerful, wonderful smell. Star anise is a key component in Chinese five-spice, along with fennel, cinnamon, Szechuan peppercorns, and cloves, because of its strong, licorice-like aroma. Everything from roast duck to roasted almonds to biryani is seasoned with this spice.

Health benefits of star anise masala:

It is highly advised to include star anise in diabetic-friendly diets because it has a low glycaemic index and an astonishing quantity of potent antioxidants. The spice contains chemicals and antioxidants that aid the body in controlling blood sugar levels.

Strong antifungal effects are present in this spice. It has long been used as a reliable natural treatment for a variety of fungi diseases, including ringworm and other common types like Athlete's foot. Regular consumption of star anise-infused tea boosts defences against various infections and enhances the immune system.

Due to the magnesium present in the spice, star anise has some sedative qualities. Certain neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and sleep may be stimulated as a result. For persons with insomnia and erratic sleeping patterns, it is quite helpful.

The liver is the body's primary detoxification organ, processing, filtering, and eliminating toxins through a variety of enzymes. The body's response to the influx of free radicals is to increase inflammation by elevating the levels of many cytokines. Star anise contains phytonutrients that lessen oxidative stress and defend different human tissues, including the liver.