by Karen Chamchuk

Created on: August 22, 2008   Last Updated: April 11, 2010

Licorice, the dried root of a European legume, is one of the most popular herbs consumed in the world today. The main ingredient in licorice is glycyrrhizin, a component that is 50 times sweeter than sugar.  Glycyrrhizin is know to stimulate the adrenal cortex to secrete the hormone aldosterone.  Licorice root is used in the making of a variety of powders, teas, tonics, extracts, and tinctures.  The Chinese use a licorice preparation to aid in the treatment of spleen, liver and kidney ailments and the Japanese use licorice as a treatment for hepatitis.

RESPIRATORY BENEFITS:

By far the most common medical use for licorice is treating coughs, hoarseness, sore throat, bronchitis and other respiratory ailments.  Licorice is safer and just as effective as codeine when used as a cough suppressant. Rhizomes(root-like stems) in licorice have sticky, adhesive properties very similar to mucous. When mixed with water or used in cough drops they soothe irritated mucous membranes. This promotes the discharge of mucus from the respiratory tract by increasing the secretion of the bronchial glands. Licorice can be used to successfully treat throat irritations, lung congestion, and bronchitis.

TREATMENT OF STOMACH AILMENTS:

Licorice is also widely used in the treatment of stomach ailments. Herbal preparations of licorice are used to treat stomach and intestinal ulcers by lowering acid levels and coating the stomach wall with a protective gel.  Licorice is a common component of many herbal teas and is know for it mild laxative and diuretic properties. It is also helpful in treating gas or flatulence.

OTHER USES:

Licorice is also effective in the treatment of Addison's disease, a rare endocrine disorder in which the adrenal gland produces insufficient amounts of steroid hormones.

Licorice root extract produces mild estrogenic effects. It has proven useful in treating symptoms of menopause, relieving menstrual cramps and regulating menstruation.

The main ingredient of licorice, glycyrrhizin, is now being touted for its anti-viral properties in the treatment of AIDS. Clinical studies in Japan revealed that glycyrrhizin prevents progression of the HIV virus by inhibiting cell infection and inducing interferon(a cell involve in immune function) activity.

Glycyrrhizin is also responsible for the anti-inflammatory properties of licorice by encouraging the production of hormones such as hydrocortisone. Licorice can help reduce the swelling caused by Arthritis and some allergies.

Licorice is a common ingredient found in poultices used for the treatment of skin infections and dermatitis(skin irritation). It helps relieve irritation by opening up the pores and is used in combination with other cleansing, healing herbs for its soothing properties.

PRECAUTIONS:

It is important to note that licorice may cause side effects in healthy people including headaches, elevated blood pressure, hypertension, lethargy, edema or shortness of breath. Discontinue use if any of these symptoms become bothersome. Licorice is not recommended for pregnant women. People on certain medications should consult a doctor before taking licorice.

In conclusion, it's obvious that licorice is good for a lot more than just making candy. It offers a multitude of health benefits that most people are not aware of.  However, if candy is the only way you consume licorice, then be sure to choose the the black variety over the red. Black licorice is actually made from licorice wheras the red licorice is just candy. I hope you have learned something new about licorice and that you can now use this amazing herb to improve your overall health and vitality.

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