Is Star Anise Intoxicating? Understanding the Risks and Toxicity
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3 min read
Reports have documented severe neurological reactions, including seizures and hallucinations, in individuals who consumed star anise-based teas. The simple, yet critical, answer to whether star anise is intoxicating depends entirely on which species of the spice is consumed and whether it's pure. The culinary variety is generally safe, but its toxic lookalike, Japanese star anise, is a potent neurotoxin.