Ever heard of using star anise to treat constipation?

[zoobaby]

I heard that soaking a star anise in boiling water, then cooling before giving to LO is a good remedy for constipation.

Can this be right?

Just to clarify, I'm trying to build up my knowledge bank of things to try should the need arise. So far I have diluted OJ or prunes, and avoid bananas.

Does it work on adults? pregnant and suffering

Prunes work, by the way. DS can't have them as he rapidly gets explosive bowel movements.

Well I guess it does work on adults as the person telling me about it said it worked for her and DCs. Since they are used in a fair bit of cooking I guess it'd be safe for pregnant women(?). Just not sure about little ones.