Illicium Verum Anise Fruit Extract Worst Fragrance Synthetic and Natural No known benefits Illicium Verum Anise Fruit Extract at a glance Plant-derived cosmetic ingredient Primarily used as a perfuming agent Can have antioxidant properties Often includes volatile aromatic compounds that can cause skin sensitization Illicium Verum Anise Fruit Extract description _Illicium verum_ (Anise) fruit extract, also known as aniseed and star anise, is a perfuming agent used in skin care that adds a pungent licorice aroma to products. _Illicium verum_ fruit extract is plant-derived, taken from the star-shaped fruit of the _Illicium verum_ evergreen tree. This extract can have antioxidant properties, with research demonstrating that it often contains gallic acid. Although this ingredient can have antioxidant benefits because of its phenolic compounds, its fragrant components make this a potential skin sensitizer. These same volatile aromatic components can also cause photosensitivity when skin is exposed to UV light. Other research suggests that this plant-extract might curb the growth of unwanted microorganisms. Overall, it’s best to skip out on using I_llicium verum_ (anise) fruit extract and instead use fragrance-free antioxidants that can benefit skin without risk of sensitization. Related ingredients: Anise Star Anise