Star Anise Essential Oil

(Illicium verum)

All Glenbrook Farms essential oils are GC/MS analyzed (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) and must meet our quality standards. We purchase directly from farms and brokers — no middlemen — so we can pass the savings directly to you.

Star Anise Essential Oil is steam-distilled from the star-shaped fruits of Illicium verum, a small evergreen tree of the family Schisandraceae native to southwestern China and northeastern Vietnam. The characteristic sweet, intensely licorice-like aroma of star anise essential oil is dominated by trans-anethole — typically 80–90% of the oil — the same compound responsible for the flavor of anise seed (Pimpinella anisum), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), and the anise-flavored spirits pastis, ouzo, and absinthe. Despite their similar aroma profiles, star anise and anise seed are botanically unrelated — star anise is a member of the Schisandraceae family, while anise seed is a member of the Apiaceae (carrot family).

Phytochemical Profile: The essential oil of Illicium verum contains trans-anethole (80–90%), foeniculin, estragole (methyl chavicol), alpha-pinene, limonene, linalool, beta-caryophyllene, anisaldehyde, anisketone, p-methoxyphenylacetone, and shikimic acid (present in the whole fruit — the compound used as the primary starting material for the industrial synthesis of oseltamivir, the active ingredient in Tamiflu®; this is a fascinating botanical chemistry connection, though the essential oil itself is not a source of shikimic acid in pharmaceutical quantities).

Aroma Profile: Sweet, intensely licorice-like, warm, and slightly spicy. One of the most recognizable aromas in the essential oil world. Blending: Pairs beautifully with other spice oils — clove, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, black pepper — as well as citrus oils (orange, mandarin, bergamot) and fennel.

Suggested Uses: Diffusion and aromatic use. Add 3–5 drops to a diffuser. For topical use, dilute to 1–2% in a carrier oil (1–2 drops per teaspoon of carrier oil) before applying to skin — star anise essential oil is potent and should always be diluted before skin contact.

⚠️ Safety: For external use only. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use undiluted on skin. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Not for use during pregnancy or nursing. Individuals with estrogen-sensitive conditions should consult a qualified healthcare provider before use — trans-anethole has been studied for potential estrogenic activity. Keep away from pets, particularly cats. Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.