Star Anise of Arunachal Pradesh

## Star Anise — India's Most Exotic Spice Star anise (Illicium verum) is the fruit of a tree native to southern China but grows successfully in the warm-humid subtropical forests of Lower Arunachal Pradesh — virtually India's only domestic source. ### Tree and Harvest The star anise tree takes 6 years to first fruit. Fruits are hand-harvested when they turn yellowish-green, then sun-dried to the characteristic rust-red star shape. ### Essential Oil and Medical Significance The dried fruit contains 5–8% volatile oil, dominated by trans-anethole (85–90%). Shikimic acid extracted from star anise is the precursor for oseltamivir (Tamiflu), the antiviral drug used against influenza — driving strategic interest in domestic cultivation. ### Tribal Economy Nyishi and Tangsa tribal communities collect wild star anise and sell through weekly markets. Cultivation is being promoted through horticulture department schemes in Tirap district.