Antimicrobial properties of star anise (Illicium verum Hook f)

Phytother Res. 2002 Feb;16(1):94-5. doi: 10.1002/ptr.989.

Abstract

Star anise (Illicium verum Hook f) has been shown to possess potent antimicrobial properties. Chemical studies indicate that a major portion of this antimicrobial property is due to anethole present in the dried fruit. Studies with isolated anethole (compared with standard anethole) indicated that it is effective against bacteria, yeast and fungal strains.

MeSH terms

  • Allylbenzene Derivatives
  • Anisoles / isolation & purification
  • Anisoles / pharmacology*
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Anti-Infective Agents / isolation & purification
  • Anti-Infective Agents / pharmacology*
  • Bacteria / drug effects
  • Fungi / drug effects
  • Illicium*
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Plant Extracts / isolation & purification
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology*
  • Saccharomyces cerevisiae / drug effects

Substances

  • Allylbenzene Derivatives
  • Anisoles
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Plant Extracts
  • anethole