Does Anise Tea Suppress Appetite? Separating Fact from Fiction

November 23, 2025 •

3 min read

For centuries, anise has been used as both a culinary spice and a medicinal herb. However, when it comes to weight loss, the belief that anise tea suppresses appetite is widely debated and often misunderstood due to confusion between two different plants, anise (Pimpinella anisum) and star anise (Illicium verum).

Quick Summary

Evidence regarding anise tea's effect on appetite is conflicting, largely due to the difference between anise and star anise. While anise is historically an appetite stimulant, star anise may help regulate appetite by promoting satiety and affecting blood sugar.

Key Points

Anise vs. Star Anise: The term 'anise tea' is confusing, as green anise (aniseed) is an appetite stimulant, whereas star anise is sometimes associated with appetite control.
Historical Use: Historically, green anise was used to stimulate a flagging appetite and aid digestion, not suppress it.
Star Anise Mechanisms: Star anise may help control appetite indirectly through its fiber content promoting satiety and its potential to regulate blood sugar, curbing cravings.
Contamination Risk: Due to the risk of contamination with toxic Japanese star anise, consumers should exercise caution and verify the source of their star anise products.
No Magic Bullet: Neither anise tea nor star anise tea is a magic solution for weight loss; effects are modest and work best alongside a healthy diet and exercise.

The Anise vs. Star Anise Distinction

One of the primary sources of confusion surrounding the effect of 'anise tea' on appetite stems from the frequent interchanging of two distinct spices: green anise (Pimpinella anisum) and star anise (Illicium verum). While they share a similar licorice-like flavor due to the compound anethole, their physiological effects can differ, especially concerning appetite regulation.

Green Anise and Appetite Stimulation

Historically, traditional medicine has often associated green anise, or aniseed, with stimulating the appetite. For example, in ancient Greece and Rome, anise was consumed after meals to improve digestion, but its use was also tied to invigorating the appetite. Some historical accounts even mention it being used to help sick patients regain their appetite. The carminative properties of aniseed help relieve gas and bloating, which can improve overall digestive comfort, but this does not equate to appetite suppression.

Star Anise and Potential Appetite Control

In contrast, many modern claims about appetite control are linked to star anise. Some sources suggest that star anise may assist with weight management by enhancing satiety and reducing cravings. The potential mechanisms involve:

Enhancing Satiety: Star anise contains dietary fiber that can help promote a feeling of fullness, potentially reducing overall food intake throughout the day.
Regulating Blood Sugar: Some research on star anise indicates it may help stabilize blood sugar levels. By preventing the sharp spikes and crashes in blood sugar, star anise may help curb intense cravings, especially for sweet snacks.
Boosting Metabolism: Certain compounds in star anise, such as anethole, may boost metabolism and promote thermogenesis, which is the process of the body burning calories to produce heat. While this can support weight loss, it is not a direct appetite suppressant effect.

Potential Side Effects and Contamination Risk

Before consuming anise tea, it is crucial to be aware of the risks, particularly the danger of contamination. Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum) is a highly toxic species that looks almost identical to the culinary-safe Chinese star anise (Illicium verum). Contamination has led to serious neurological symptoms, including seizures, vomiting, and nausea. To avoid this:

Source Carefully: Always purchase star anise from reputable and verified suppliers.
Avoid Unknown Teas: Be wary of pre-packaged teas that do not explicitly state their origin and processing.
Consult a Professional: Talk to a healthcare provider before using star anise for medicinal purposes, especially if you have existing health conditions.

Comparison of Anise and Star Anise for Appetite and Digestion


Feature	Green Anise (Pimpinella anisum)	Star Anise (Illicium verum)
Effect on Appetite	Primarily an appetite stimulant	Potential for appetite control and satiety
Primary Uses	Digestive aid, appetite stimulant, culinary spice	Culinary spice, digestive aid, antiviral properties (Tamiflu)
Taste Profile	Licorice-like, sweet, and aromatic	Stronger licorice flavor, warm and spicy
Key Compound	Anethole, also contains estragole and others	High concentration of anethole, shikimic acid
Toxicity Risk	Generally safe in moderation, but allergic reactions possible	High risk of contamination with toxic Japanese star anise

How Herbal Teas Fit into Weight Management

While a single cup of anise or star anise tea is not a magic solution for weight loss, incorporating herbal teas into a comprehensive weight management plan can be beneficial. Drinking a warm beverage before a meal can psychologically aid in feeling full, and replacing high-calorie, sugary drinks with unsweetened herbal tea reduces overall calorie intake. Other herbal teas with potential weight management benefits include:

Green Tea: Contains catechins and caffeine that boost metabolism and fat oxidation.
Peppermint Tea: The aroma may act as a mild appetite suppressant and aid digestion.
Fennel Tea: Known for its carminative properties and potential to suppress appetite.
Ginger Tea: Can increase thermogenesis and assist with satiety.

Conclusion: Anise Tea and Appetite

In summary, the notion that anise tea universally suppresses appetite is inaccurate. The effect depends heavily on the type of anise consumed. Green anise (Pimpinella anisum) is traditionally considered an appetite stimulant, while star anise (Illicium verum) may offer some indirect appetite control through its effects on satiety, blood sugar regulation, and metabolism. However, these effects are modest and should not replace a balanced diet and regular exercise. Furthermore, the significant risk of contamination with toxic Japanese star anise means that any herbal tea claiming weight loss benefits should be approached with caution, with careful attention paid to sourcing. A balanced diet and regular physical activity remain the cornerstones of effective weight management.

For more information on the effects of herbal compounds on obesity, a scientific review can provide further insight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Star anise tea is not a direct weight-loss solution, but it may offer some benefits. Its compounds may boost metabolism and regulate blood sugar, which can indirectly aid weight management. However, these effects are modest, and the tea is not a replacement for a healthy diet and exercise.

Anise (Pimpinella anisum) and star anise (Illicium verum) come from different plants, though they share a similar licorice-like flavor due to the compound anethole. Anise is traditionally an appetite stimulant, while star anise is more associated with appetite control and satiety.

Some sources suggest that star anise can help control cravings due to its ability to potentially regulate blood sugar levels. Stable blood sugar can prevent the sudden spikes and crashes that often lead to intense cravings for sweets.

Yes, but caution is essential. Chinese star anise is generally considered safe, but it can be contaminated with toxic Japanese star anise. Always purchase from a trusted supplier and consult a healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions.

Star anise, like anise, contains compounds like anethole that can aid digestion by relaxing the gastrointestinal tract, which can help reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion. Improved digestion can lead to a more comfortable feeling after eating.

Side effects of anise or star anise tea are typically mild with moderate consumption, but excessive intake can lead to allergic reactions, digestive issues, and neurological problems, especially if contaminated with toxic Japanese star anise. People with hormone-sensitive conditions should also be cautious.

To potentially support weight management, you can brew a simple tea by steeping star anise pods or seeds in hot water. Drink it unsweetened and consider having a cup before a meal to help promote feelings of fullness. Combine it with a balanced diet and regular exercise for best results.