Tag: Is star anise poisonous

While Chinese star anise (Illicium verum) is a common culinary spice, its toxic counterpart, Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum), has led to serious poisoning cases worldwide. A primary negative side effect of star anise is the risk of adulteration with this highly poisonous look-alike, which can cause severe health issues.

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.