Shikimic acid is an important precursor for the production of the antiviral agent Tamiflu (Oseltamivir). Shikimic acid is obtained from the seeds of Illicium spp (Star anise) and genetically engineered Escherichia coli. Two-thirds of the supply of Shikimic acid is harvested from Star anise where the yield is only 5-7%, and the remaining one-third is produced by fermentation. Recent bad crops of Star anise can be linked to shortages of this important antival agent. Chemical synthesis of shikimic acid is unfeasible due to the high cost, given its stereochemistry. Researchers at James Cook University have identified an endemic Australian plant species that contains ~16% pure shikimic acid. The extraction method is simple and scalable.

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