The Star Anise Oil is particularly strong and must be used very, very carefully.  Safety: Do not use in pregnancy or during lactation or with endometriosis. . Do not use with estrogen-dependent cancers,  Do not use with blood thinners or with bleeding disorders or before surgery.  Do not use with children. Avoid if oil is old or oxidized.  Maximum dilution of 1.75% in dermal applications.  Health Canada recommendations Used in aromatherapy: as a nervine/calmative to help relieve joint/muscle pain associated with sprain/strain/rheumatoid arthritis. to help relieve headache. as a carminative/antispasmodic for symptomatic relief of digestive discomfort. to help relieve colds/cough. Traditional Uses:    Digestion:    Colic, Indigestion, Cramps Muscles and Joints  Stiffness, sprains, strains, pain, rheumatism Respiratory: Bronchitis, colds, coughs, flu,