Health Benefits of Licorice Root
Health Benefits of Licorice Root
Licorice root (glycyrrhiza glabra) also known as licorice or sweet root is a perennial herb native to North Africa, Southern Europe and West Asian has been use for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Licorice root extract was the most prescribed herb in Ancient Egypt, Roman, Greek, East China, and the West from the Former Han Era. Licorice root was used as a sweet drink for pharaohs in Ancient Egypt. Now licorice root is used to treat various ailments and to flavor candies, drinks and medicines.
In Traditional Chinese medicine, licorice root, considered as the “essential herbal medication” is used to treat many ailments, including gastrointestinal problems, malaria, insomnia and infections.
Licorice root has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-asthmatic and anti-diabetic properties.
Licorice is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body and may help prevent the risk of chronic diseases.
Licorice root may help throat infections, tuberculosis, respiratory infections, immunodeficiency and liver diseases.
Licorice root may help treat hepatitis C.
Licorice root may help treat skin conditions.
Licorice root may also help treat symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) such as acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion. Licorice root may also help treat peptic ulcers.
Licorice root may also have anticancer properties. Studies have shown that licorice root may slow and prevent cell growth in skin, colorectal and breast cancer but more research is needed.
Licorice root may help promote oral health including treating tooth decay, oral thrush, canker sores, periodontitis and help protect against cavities.
Licorice root may also help reduce menopause symptoms and promote weight loss.
Licorice root may interact with certain medications including blood pressure, blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering, diuretics, estrogen-based contraceptives and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Consuming licorice root over an extended period of time or overconsumption may have severe side effects including irregular heartbeat, cardiac arrest, congestive heart failure, low potassium and hypertension.
As always consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/licorice-root
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-licorice-root
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/licorice-root
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323761
https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-licorice-root-89727