What are the effects of Badiane?

In short:

It has long been found in the kitchen. Its peppery and powerful smell is characteristic. Badiane, or Star anise, is a plant native to Southeast Asia. In the culinary arts, it is mainly used for seasoning. Its organoleptic properties are incomparable and add a frank and unusual anise note to dishes. A product that is characterized as a spice, Star anise is also the star of mulled wines during the holiday season.

Son utilisation en infusion est plus récente mais tout aussi surprenante en bouche. Ajouter quelques graines d'Anis étoilé, de préférence bio, à son eau chaude donne une recette assez originale.

Star anise essential oil is also one of the ways it can be consumed. It is here more on health that we praise its action, in herbal tea we focus more on the taste that is similar to Fennel. Star anise essential oil is used for its so-called tonic and stimulating action for the body. It is therefore found in certain products related to weight loss and slimming. Beyond dietary supplements to lose weight or have a flat stomach, organic star anise essential oil is also used to fight coughs, it is said to have anti-inflammatory action.

A bit of history: find out more

Would you like to know more about Badiane? This little summary, while interesting, only allows us to introduce you to this spice quickly, without going into detail. However, there is so much to say about Star anise! Did you know that in Asia, very close to its origins, it has different names? It is indeed found under pictorial names such as "eight horns" (literal translation of a Chinese term) which is pronounced "bajiao". It is this pronunciation that is at the origin of the French word "Badiane", at least that is what the writings claim. In China, it is also nicknamed "big fodder" or "big fennel". As you may already know, Star anise has a very anise flavor, it can remind that of Fennel. The other best-known name for this beautiful spice is "Star anise». Be careful, however, not to confuse Chinese Star anise and Japanese Star anise. The latter is characterized as toxic in France, it is even called " devil fruit"!

On the historical side, the writings are quite scattered on Badiane, however we know that it was expensive (because of its rarity and its distant origins) in the West during the Middle Ages. It was during the Renaissance that its use spread, thanks to its importation into the West by the British Empire. It was not until the 17th century for the introduction of the first Badian tree in Europe, in order to cultivate it and allow the use of Badian by local practitioners. It was only from then that Star anise is considered to have become widespread on our continent.

Today, Star anise is very easy to find. Almost 90% of the world's spice production comes from China, it is said to employ more than 10 million people. As for the remaining 10% of production, it is shared by other countries: Vietnam, Japan, the Philippines, Cambodia and Laos.

Badiane, what a funny look!

Let us dwell for a few moments on the allure of the Badiane,  which is so special. It is unusual to see a spice with this shape. So what are the characteristics of Star anise? As previously stated, we know that it comes from the Badianier: an evergreen tree that gives fruit in the shape of eight-pointed stars. Each of the branches, known as "carpels" because of their husk-like shape, fits a small, shiny seed.

Uses and benefits of star anise:

Let's come back to the basics of our article: what are the effects of Star anise? You should know that the spice is mainly used in cooking. Indeed, its very strong aniseed and peppery smell makes it an important culinary asset. Season with Star anise, you are sure to surprise your guests! However, be careful with the dosages and associations. Star anise has characteristic and powerful flavors, so it does not go well with all dishes ... nor with all palates. It is said that its association with sweet dishes, and in particular chocolate, is a delight!

Star anise is a spice that is also found quite often in herbal teas. And for good reason ! The first one ? His taste ! As we have already mentioned, the intense and aniseed flavors of Star anise make it an ingredient of choice in the conception of tea and herbal tea recipes. The second reason? Its benefits! Are you wondering about the effects of Star anise? We have taken the liberty of compiling a small list for you below. Be careful though, these are the most famous benefits of this spice, but these are not the reasons why we use it at Pagès in our infusions. We love Star anise here for the taste, and you will find it in our products because we are committed to helping you discover its intense flavors. If you are interested in the effects of Star anise (among those listed below), we advise you to learn more about their so-called virtues on other sites or in books.

We can therefore find many virtues in Star anise when we do some research: weight loss, flat stomach, water retention, analgesic, inflammatory properties, etc. Star anise is obviously linked to a healthy lifestyle and dietary measures. It is also often found in food supplement type products. Nowadays, Star anise, like many other spices and plants (recognized medicinal or not), is known to have virtues and is recommended for a good way of life. At Pagès, we use it for its original taste.