Star Anise Essential Oil, 100 ml

Star anise essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the fruits of Chinese star anise (Illicium verum), a tree of Asian origin whose star-shaped fruits you will know from the kitchen. In a formulation it serves two purposes. It is a fragrance component with a sweet, spicy scent reminiscent of liquorice, and at the same time an active ingredient which the manufacturer states has a warming and soothing effect on the skin. It is most often added to massage oils, body products, soaps, bath salts and bath bombs, candles and diffusers.

According to the manufacturer, the sweet scent of star anise creates a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere, so the oil suits aromatherapy and products intended for relaxation. It can be used in both rinse-off and leave-on products, and the amount in each is determined by the IFRA limit for the given category.

Key properties

• Sweet, spicy scent – a characteristic liquorice note which the manufacturer describes as sweet and spicy. The scent creates a feeling of well-being and suits relaxing compositions.
• Warming sensation – the manufacturer states that the oil produces a mild warming sensation on the skin. This behaviour is used in massage oils and creams intended for relaxation.
• Soothing effect – according to the manufacturer, the oil has a soothing effect on the skin and its scent is relaxing, which suits aromatherapy blends and evening bath products.
• Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect – both properties are stated by the manufacturer. In a finished product they are understood as a supporting cosmetic effect on the skin.
• Use in hair care – the manufacturer recommends it for hair products for an aromatic and refreshing feeling on the scalp.
• Cosmetic and food grade – the oil meets the requirements for both cosmetic and food use.

Use in formulations

The oil is added to the oil phase or, in emulsions and ointment bases, only in the cooling phase. The recommended processing temperature is below 40 °C, as the oil is a mixture of volatile components. It is worked into finished oils, serums and balms afterwards, by thorough mixing. In water-based systems (toners, sprays, bath waters) a solubiliser is needed, because the oil is insoluble in water and will separate without it.

The oil dissolves well in alcohol, so it is also suitable for alcohol-based perfumes and room fragrances. It can be combined with other fragrance components without restriction. For candles, IFRA category 12 applies.

Suitable for products such as

• Massage oils and creams – the warming and relaxing character, according to the manufacturer, is useful in products intended for relaxation.
• Body creams, lotions and body butters – a fragrance accent in the oil phase, added during cooling.
• Soaps, shower gels and shampoos – rinse-off products, where the upper usage limit is set by IFRA category 9.
• Bath salts and bath bombs – a fragrance component for relaxing bath products.
• Candles and diffusers – a sweet, spicy scent for aromatherapy and room fragrances.
• Hair oils and scalp serums – for a refreshing sensation, according to the manufacturer.

Good to know

The oil is classified under the CLP Regulation and contains one or more fragrance allergens listed in Annex III of the Cosmetics Regulation. Detailed information on classification and safe handling is given in the safety data sheet (SDS) in the product documentation.

The oil is colourless to yellow. For light-coloured creams and soaps with a higher proportion of oil, it is advisable to check the colour on a test sample. For cold process soap, we recommend testing how it behaves in the soap batter on a small batch first.

Star anise is often confused with anise (Pimpinella anisum). Both plants have a similar liquorice scent, but they are two different species and two different essential oils. This oil is distilled from star anise fruits and is listed in the ingredients as Illicium Verum Fruit Oil.

Frequently asked questions