Black Plum vs Illicium verum

TCM herb that astringes the lungs, binds the intestines, generates fluids, and expels roundworms. Key herb in the classical formula Wu Mei Wan for roundworm conditions.

East Asian spice; rich in anethole and shikimic acid (Tamiflu precursor); digestive and antiviral properties.

malic acid, citric acid, succinic acid, benzaldehyde

anethole, shikimic acid, estragole, foeniculin, flavonoids

Astringes lungs for chronic cough, Bind intestines for chronic diarrhea, Generate fluids for thirst, Expel roundworms

digestive complaints, cough, antiviral, infant colic, menstrual disorders

Antidiarrheal, Antitussive, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial

digestive carminative, expectorant, antiviral source (shikimic acid), anti-inflammatory

3-9g processed dried fruit decoction or 300mg extract daily

1-3g pods as tea 2-3x/day; 300-500mg extract

Exterior conditions in TCM, Damp heat conditions

pregnancy (large doses), estrogen-sensitive conditions, Japanese star anise (toxic species) confusion

GI upset, Bloating

estrogenic effects, GI upset, neurotoxicity if Japanese star anise confused