I found out about this less than 10 minutes ago. Let me state clearly that the facts of this are not completely understood at this time. However, here's my summation of what I know so far.

The FDA has released a warning to not ingest star anise tea. The news agencies have picked it up and it's all over the place. Not very surprising. From what I gather, 40 people in two years have had "neurological issues" after drinking tea made with star anise. All of them recovered without further incident. Hardly makes for an epidemic, in my opinion.

However, faithful readers will have noticed by now that I have not included the Latin binomial for the plant star anise. This is by design, as it that could be at the crux of the matter. The star anise used medicinally for centuries and written up in nearly every classic herbal text is Illicium verum. However, it is not to be confused with a different species, Illicium anisatum, which is highly toxic and is not used in herbalism, though homeopaths do use the much diluted preparation for a variety of ailments. But I'm an herbalist, not a homeopath...

The facts should soon shake themselves out on this issue. For now, I would recommend those who have had success with Illicum verum in relief of colic and gas continue on your merry way. I would, however, be very cautions about where you get the product from. Know where your stuff comes from, and that the company your are getting it from knows even more.