Cenxi Star Anise Oil

Cenxi Star Anise Oil

　　Star Anise Oil

Star anise, also known as large anise, is distilled from its branches and leaves to produce star anise oil. With its fragrant aroma, star anise is used as a flavoring spice in food. The oil is applied in the formulation of high-end cosmetics, candies, food, alcoholic drinks, and pharmaceuticals. It is a product with a long historical tradition in Cenxi. By the 24th year of the Republic of China (1935), the production of star anise oil had already reached 400 dan. After the liberation, the county’s forestry and foreign trade departments have consistently supported mountainous areas in developing star anise production through funding, technology, fertilizers, and seedlings. Major producing areas include the towns of Jinzhu, Daye, Chengjian, Limu, and Anping. The Qiping Forest Farm manages 300 mu of star anise plantations, yielding about 5 tons of star anise seeds annually, with an output value of around 40,000 yuan. By 1987, the county had 28,200 mu of star anise forests, producing 41 tons of star anise and 39.73 tons of star anise oil, reaching 85 tons in 1988. In 1989, star anise production rose to 100 tons, and in 1990, it increased to 171 tons.

The county operates over 100 small-scale star anise oil factories, generally producing around 40–50 tons of oil each. In addition to domestic sales, the oil is also exported to 30 countries and regions including the UK, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Australia, Hong Kong, and Macau. In 1990, exports amounted to 21 tons.