by James Lynne

Created on: August 26, 2008

Licorice, commonly thought of as an oddly flavored candy, is also a time honored herb offering numerous health and medicinal benefits. Licorice products, often misunderstood as confectionary only, can be found in plentiful supply in the local health food market. Herbs have traditionally been consumed by the health conscious as an approach to strengthening the body and healing it of disease. Licorice earned a rightful place on the herbal list for its beneficial health offerings.

It would be irresponsible to discuss the health benefits of any herb without clearly stating the importance of exercising caution in its use. The human body is a chemical factory, capable of running itself efficiently. Any time we ingest additional chemicals, even those with beneficial properties; there is danger of upsetting this balance. All herbal supplements are capable of interacting negatively with other herbs as well as prescribed medications. In that sense, licorice is no different than any other chemical agent.

Of specific importance is the potential of side effects associated with "glycyrrhizin," a chemical component of licorice that can cause potassium loss and hormonal imbalance leading to headache, fatigue, high blood pressure and heart attack. All things in moderation applies to the use of any supplement, including licorice. This "glycyrrhizine" within licorice is also largely responsible for its beneficial properties. Studies have confirmed the ability of this compound to soothe digestive system irritation, promote mucous "expectorant" production, as well as stimulate the adrenal gland in its ability to regulate the negative effects of cortisol, the stress hormone.

With the technical aspect established, let's consider the most appealing beneficial aspect of licorice, the flavor. As a result of its unusual and pleasing flavor, it is used as a flavoring in Root Beer and other beverages, as well as a flavoring to disguise the displeasing taste of various medicines. As the song would suggest, "A spoon full of licorice' as well as sugar" can be used to make the medicine go down. Licorice flavoring in root beer isn't just about the flavor. Root beer has a soothing effect on unsettled tummies because of this additive.

Licorice root has ancient uses in the prevention and treatment of stomach ulcers. Modern medicine as well recognizes its natural ability to soothe stomach distress. "Helicobacter pylori," a bacterium commonly found in the human stomach, and considered to be a contributor

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