Illicium anisatum vs Ziziphus Mauritiana

Japanese toxic look-alike of star anise; used in Buddhist ceremonies; causes severe neurotoxicity if consumed.

Small tree widespread in tropical Asia and Africa producing edible fruits used medicinally in Ayurvedic and African traditional medicine for digestive and sedative conditions.

anisatin (neurotoxin), neoanisatin, essential oils, flavonoids

jujuboside B, ziziphine, ursolic acid, flavonoids, vitamins

incense burning (Buddhist ceremonies), ceremonial use only

insomnia, digestive disorders, fever, wound healing, nutritive

reference only; extremely toxic

sedative, digestive tonic, wound healing, nutritive

Not for consumption; ceremonial incense only

Fruit consumed freely or 5–10g bark decoction

any internal use, any food use

sedative medications, allergy

severe convulsions, respiratory failure, death

drowsiness, mild digestive upset