⚠️CautionCurated
Star Anise
Chinese star anise (Illicium verum) used as a cooking spice is generally safe in small amounts while breastfeeding. However, use caution — Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum) is toxic and has been found as a contaminant in some star anise products. Star anise tea specifically has been associated with toxicity in infants and should not be given directly to babies or consumed in large quantities by nursing mothers.
The FDA issued a warning about star anise teas after reports of seizures and other neurological symptoms in infants who were given star anise tea directly. The concern is contamination with Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum), which contains toxic sesquiterpene lactones. When purchasing star anise, buy from reputable sources that sell Chinese star anise (Illicium verum) specifically. Using 1–2 whole stars in cooking (pho, braised meats, etc.) is fine — the concern is concentrated tea preparations.
Always confirm with your doctor or lactation consultant before making dietary changes while breastfeeding.
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