Comparisons
Anise or Star Anise?
Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is a seed from the carrot family, while star anise (Illicium verum) is a star-shaped fruit; both contain anethole, which is why they taste similar. The table is built from the sourced cards of both herbs.
| Aspect | AnisePimpinella anisum | Star AniseIllicium verum |
|---|---|---|
| Strongest evidence | B Limited clinical evidence | T Traditional use |
| Needs | Digestion, Respiratory, Throat & Mouth | Respiratory, Throat & Mouth |
| Form | Seed | Spice |
| How to use | Pour 150 ml of boiling water over 1–3.5 g of whole or freshly crushed aniseed. | Used as a culinary spice. Buy from a reliable source with Illicium verum on the label; there is no verified therapeutic dose. |
| Pregnancy | Avoid | Unknown |
| Breastfeeding | Avoid | Caution |
| Recommended minimum age | From age 12 | Not stated |
| Drug interactions | No recorded interactions | No recorded interactions |
| Duration limit | Max 2 weeks | Not stated |
Which one, when?
Anise
Traditionally drunk as a tea for mild digestive complaints such as bloating and wind, and for cough with colds; for up to 2 weeks. Not recommended under 12.
Full card →Star Anise
Used as a spice in cooking. Its traditional use for cough and bronchitis rests on Germany's Commission E; there are no clinical studies and no confirmed dose.
Full card →Good to know
- Do not give star anise tea to babies or young children; seizures, restlessness and vomiting have been reported.
- Star anise can be contaminated with neurotoxic Japanese star anise; buy from a reliable source with Illicium verum on the label.
- Anise is not recommended while breastfeeding; star anise only occasionally and in moderation. In both, anethole passes into breast milk.
Sources
- Community herbal monograph on Pimpinella anisum L., fructusEMA HMPC · 2013 · MonographSource accessed:
- Pimpinella anisum in the treatment of functional dyspepsia: a double-blind, randomized clinical trialJournal of Research in Medical Sciences · 2015 · Randomized controlled trialSource accessed:
- Star anisee-lactancia (APILAM) · 2020 · Reference bookSource accessed:
- Star AniseWebMD · 2025 · Reference bookSource accessed:
- Neurotoxicities in infants seen with the consumption of star anise teaPediatrics · 2004 · Observational study / case seriesSource accessed: