Star anise

Star anise

(Guizhou folk medicine)

[source] it is the root of Illicium verum.

[plant morphology] star anise, also known as grass.

Erect herbs. Stem 50-70 cm high, green, less branched. The leaves are alternate, with long stalks. The leaves are broad ovate, 9-10 cm long, 5-lobed. The apex of the lobes is sharp, and the edge is serrate. The upper part is green, the lower part is light green, and both sides are sparsely short hairy. Panicle, about 30 cm long, many capitulums; involucral bracts 1-row, bracteoles outside; flowers all tubular, apex 5-lobed. Achene reddish brown, with about 10 edges, white corolla, about as long as bracts.

Born in the shade of mixed forest.

[collection] harvest in autumn

[nature and taste] warm in nature, pungent and slightly astringent in taste.

Functions and indications: dispersing blood stasis and killing insects.

[selected formula] ① treatment of unknown swelling toxin: stir the hair with star anise and apply it to the affected area,

② Treatment of leprosy: anise grinding wine or, rub the affected area.

③ Treatment of rheumatism and edema: star anise one or two, triangle wind, rattan each five money. Wash with boiling water and take it orally.