Star anise, also known as Chinese star anise or star aniseed, belongs to the genus Illicium of the Magnoliaceae family and is an evergreen tree. It is mainly produced in Guangxi, Guangdong, Guizhou, Yunnan and other provinces of China and Vietnam. Other countries and regions around the world are also actively introducing it. By steam distillation of star anise fruits, star anise oil can be obtained. The oil yield from mature dried fruits is 8% to 12%, and that from fresh fruits is 2% to 3%.
. Physicochemical Properties
This oil exhibits consistent characteristic traits:
- Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow mobile liquid (may crystallize at low temperatures)
- Aroma & Taste: Distinctive star-anise fragrance with a sweet, spicy note
- Key Metrics :
- Relative density: 0.975 ~ 0.992
- Refractive index: 1.5525 ~ 1.5600
- Optical rotation: -2° ~ +1°
- Melting point: ≥ 15°C
- Solubility: Easily soluble in 90% ethanol
- Extraction method
There are several methods for extracting star anise oil.
(1) Steam distillation method
Place 2009 grams of star anise raw materials in an essential oil distillation apparatus, add water for distillation for 5 hours. Use steam to extract the oil, and through condensation and oil-water separation, obtain star anise essential oil. The yield is 7.5%.
(2) Supercritical CO2 extraction method
Accurately weigh 250 grams of star anise raw materials, put them into the extraction tank, and introduce CO2. Under the conditions of 16 MPa pressure, 35℃ temperature, 2-hour reaction time, and 30 L/h CO2 flow rate, conduct continuous extraction of star anise. The extract enters the separation tank for separation. After CO2 gasification, it circulates to allow the extract to be released from the bottom of the separation tank. The yield is 10.5% - Applications
- Food Industry: Widely used as a natural food additive for flavoring beverages, confectionery, and savory dishes .
- Pharmaceuticals: Serves as an intermediate in drug synthesis and exhibits antibacterial/antioxidative properties .
- Fragrance & Cosmetics: Incorporated into perfumes, soaps, and skincare products for its aromatic and nourishing benefits .Storage
Cover with a shade, seal it, and store in a cool place.
Post time: Oct-15-2025