Henry's Anise
Illicium henryi
Illicium henryi is a plant traditionally associated with Chinese medicine, though specific traditional uses have not been documented. Scientific studies have focused on its tissue culture and chemical composition. Research has identified new sesquiterpenoids from its fruits, showing moderate neuroprotective activity against MPP+-induced cell damage. Additionally, novel merrillianone/cycloparviforalone-based esters demonstrated more potent neurite outgrowth-promoting activity than their precursors. However, no significant antiviral or cytotoxic activities were reported in these studies. Safety and drug interaction concerns are currently not well-documented; thus, no major issues have been recorded.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- This study established an efficient protocol for the in vitro regeneration of Illicium henryi using tissue culture technology.
- Three new sesquiterpenoids were identified from Illicium henryi fruits, and some showed moderate neuroprotective activity against MPP+-induced cell damage.
- Most novel merrillianone/cycloparviforalone-based esters showed more potent neurite outgrowth-promoting activity than their precursors.
- The study identified several new sesquiterpenes from Illicium henryi with potential antiviral activity.
Frequently asked questions
What is Henry's Anise?
Henry's Anise (Illicium henryi) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Henry's Anise?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Henry's Anise; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: This study established an efficient protocol for the in vitro regeneration of Illicium henryi using tissue culture technology.
How strong is the evidence for Henry's Anise?
The strongest finding for Henry's Anise carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Henry's Anise safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Henry's Anise in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Henry's Anise interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Henry's Anise in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Henry's Anise a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Discovery, semisynthesis and neurite outgrowth-promoting activity of novel merrillianone/cycloparviforalone based esters as neurotrophic agents. literature abstract metadata
- T2 seco-Sesquiterpenes and acorane-type sesquiterpenes with antiviral activity from the twigs and leaves of Illicium henryi Diels. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Highly oxygenated sesquiterpenoids with neurotrophic and neuroprotective activities from the fruits of Illicium henryi Diels. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Tissue culture requirements of the evergreen broad-leaved plant Illicium henryi D. literature abstract metadata