Illicium Verum Anise Fruit Extract
Also known as: aniseed, star anise, Anise, Star Anise
Plant-derived cosmetic ingredient
EWG Safety Score
What Is Illicium Verum Anise Fruit Extract?
Illicium verum (Anise) fruit extract, also known as aniseed and star anise, is a perfuming agent used in skin care that adds a pungent licorice aroma to products. Illicium verum fruit extract is plant-derived, taken from the star-shaped fruit of the Illicium verum evergreen tree. This extract can have antioxidant properties, with research demonstrating that it often contains gallic acid. Although this ingredient can have antioxidant benefits because of its phenolic compounds, its fragrant components make this a potential skin sensitizer. These same volatile aromatic components can also cause photosensitivity when skin is exposed to UV light. Other research suggests that this plant-extract might curb the growth of unwanted microorganisms. Overall, it’s best to skip out on using Illicium verum (anise) fruit extract and instead use fragrance-free antioxidants that can benefit skin without risk of sensitization.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Molecules, February 2022, pages 650-667 Molecules, 2022
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Arthropod-Plant Interactions, April 2017, pages 203-212 Arthropod-Plant Interactions, 2017
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Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, January 2012, pages 314- 324 Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 2012
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Why isn’t this ingredient rated?
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