Do you know the 10 incredible health benefits of licorice?
The Benefits of Licorice for Health
- Fight Cancer. Licorice is an effective remedy for practically the treatment and prevention of Some types of cancer.
- Reduce stress, calm your mind and gives you energy. They say that drinking licorice infusions every day helps emotional well-being, Combat migraines and reduce stress .
- Helps lose weight. ...
- It is great for the skin. ...
- Relieves pain. ...
What are the health benefits of eating licorice?
What Is Licorice Root Used For?
- Canker Sores. Some past studies found that licorice root acted as an anti-inflammatory agent that speeds up healing of canker sores in the mouth.
- Chronic Bronchitis. ...
- Colorectal Cancer. ...
- Functional Dyspepsia. ...
- Menopause and Menstrual Symptoms. ...
- Peptic Ulcers. ...
What are the most common licorice side effects?
You should not use this product if you are allergic to licorice, or if you have:
- low levels of potassium in your blood ( hypokalemia );
- past or present cancer of the breast, ovary, or uterus; or
- a history of endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
What are the uses of licorice?
Licorice or yashtimadhu is a sweet herb that can treat upper respiratory infections, dental and oral infections, and peptic ulcers. It can also protect the heart and the liver, boost memory, reduce hot flashes, and reduce excessive hunger and thirst in diabetics. Use licorice only in prescribed dosage since long-term intake has side effects.
Can I take licorice root everyday?
It is tolerated well in adults. Licorice root supplements are only intended for short-term use. Consuming licorice daily for several weeks or longer can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. However, some side effects can occur if licorice root is taken in large amounts.
What are the side effects of taking licorice root?
People who regularly take large amounts of licorice, more than 20 g/day, may raise blood levels of the hormone aldosterone, which can cause serious side effects, including headache, high blood pressure, and heart problems.
What are the health benefits of licorice root tea?
Digestion Aid. Traditionally, licorice root tea was used to help ease digestive problems and soothe symptoms associated with nausea and upset stomach. The tea also boasts antispasmodic effects, which may help with gas and bloating. Recent research shows there may be some benefits for healthy digestion.
When should I take licorice root?
Upset stomach: A combination product containing licorice is used as 1 ml by mouth three times daily. Ulcer: Take 760-1520 mg by mouth with meals for 8 to 16 weeks. Cough: Take 0.5 to 1 gram of powdered root one to three times a day. Root: Take 1 to 4 gram by mouth three times a day.
Who should not take licorice?
Licorice that contains glycyrrhizin is possibly unsafe when consumed in large amounts or for a long time. Eating licorice 5 grams or more daily for several weeks can cause severe side effects including heart attack. People who have heart disease, kidney disease, or high blood pressure are more sensitive to it.
Is licorice good for losing weight?
Licorice was able to reduce body fat mass and to suppress aldosterone, without any change in BMI. Since the subjects were consuming the same amount of calories during the study, we suggest that licorice can reduce fat by inhibiting 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase Type 1 at the level of fat cells.
Why can't you drink licorice root tea everyday?
Chronic use and large doses of licorice root can cause severe fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those with kidney disease, heart disease, or high blood pressure should avoid licorice products.
Is licorice root good for hair growth?
medwireNews: A formula containing L-carnitine, creatine, and Glycyrrhiza inflata, otherwise known as Chinese licorice, shows great potential for stimulating hair roots, supporting growth of hair, and reducing hair thinning, say researchers.
Does licorice root help hair loss?
Licorice root has a number of beneficial qualities when it comes to naturally treating hair loss. It works to alleviate a dry, irritated, or scabbed skull. But, most importantly, licorice root opens pores and strengthens weakened hair follicles, which is often the cause of hair loss in the first place.
What is the best way to consume licorice root?
To make licorice root tea, boil 1 cup of water and pour over one licorice root. Allow licorice root to steep for 5 minutes. Strain and serve. Licorice root tea is commonly used as a gastrointestinal (stomach-related) remedy and to soothe a sore throat.
Does licorice root help you sleep?
Liquorice. Liquorice is often used in herbal medicine to help with both anxiety and depression. In botanical medicine, liquorice is known as an adrenal gland tonic, which means that it can help calm frazzled nerves that may keep you up at night.
Is licorice anti-inflammatory?
Conclusion: Licorice and its natural compounds have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activities. More pharmacokinetic studies using different models with different dosages should be carried out, and the maximum tolerated dose is also critical for clinical use of licorice extract and purified compounds.
What are the benefits of licorice root?
Licorice root extract is tied to several other potential benefits. It may: 1 Aid diabetes. In a 60-day study in rats, daily intake of licorice root extract resulted in significant improvements in blood sugar levels and kidney health. This effect has not been confirmed in humans ( 31 ). 2 Reduce menopause symptoms. Licorice root extract has been proposed as a treatment for hot flashes during menopause. However, the evidence on its effectiveness for this purpose is limited ( 32, 33 ). 3 Boost weight loss. Some studies indicate that licorice root extract lowers body mass index (BMI) and supports weight loss. Yet, other studies have not found any effects on weight ( 34, 35 ). 4 Help treat hepatitis C. One test-tube study noted that adding glycyrrhizin to a standard hepatitis C treatment significantly reduced the virus’s spread. While promising, these results have not been confirmed in humans ( 36, 37 ).
What is licorice used for?
What’s more, licorice is used to flavor some foods and beverages ( 5. Trusted Source. ). Surprisingly, many licorice candies are flavored not with licorice root but with anise oil — an essential oil from the anise plant ( Pimpinella anisum) that has a similar taste.
What is the active compound in licorice root?
While it contains hundreds of plant compounds, licorice root’s primary active compound is glycyrrhizin ( 1. Trusted Source. , 3. Trusted Source. ). Glycyrrhizin is responsible for the root’s sweet taste, as well as its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties ( 1.
Where does licorice root come from?
Licorice root, which is considered one of the world’s oldest herbal remedies, comes from the root of the licorice plant ( Glycyrrhiza glabra) ( 1. Trusted Source. ). Native to Western Asia and Southern Europe, licorice has long been used to treat various ailments and flavor candies, drinks, and medicines ( 1. Trusted Source.
Can licorice root cause glycyrrhizin?
Licorice root overdose. Both chronic use and large doses of licorice root products may lead to glycyrrhizin accumulation in your body. Elevated levels of glycyrrhizin have been shown to cause an abnormal increase in the stress hormone cortisol, which may cause imbalances in your fluid and electrolyte levels ( 38.
Does licorice root help with mucositis?
As research is limited to test tubes and animals, its effects on human cancers are unknown. Yet, licorice root extract may help treat oral mucositis — very painful mouth sores that people with cancer sometimes experience as a side effect of chemotherapy and radiation ( 20. Trusted Source. , 21.
Does licorice root help with acid reflux?
Licorice root extract is often used to relieve symptoms of indigestion, such as acid reflux, upset stomach, and heartburn. In a 30-day study in 50 adults with indigestion, taking a 75-mg licorice capsule twice daily resulted in significant improvements in symptoms, compared with a placebo ( 10. Trusted Source. ).
What are the benefits of licorice root?
II – Health Benefits Of Licorice Root. 1. Treat Depression. A research has shown that treating depression is one of the amazing health benefits of licorice root. This is because that the Glycyrrhizic acid present in licorice root has the ability to encourage the function of the adrenal glands.
What is licorice root?
Licorice root [1] or licorice root is the underground stems and root of a plant Glycyrrhizaglabra. Licorice root has been used in Asia, Greek, China and Egyptians for confectionery applications, flavoring and medicinal purposes for centuries. Licorice root is well-known for numerous documented uses and benefits because it is a great source of a variety of healthy compounds such as volatile oils, flavonoids, coumarins, plant sterols, asparagine, glycosides, glycyrrhizic, chalcones, and anethole. Licorice root is sweeter than sugar; therefore, it often replaces sugar in candies. It is not surprising when Licorice root is often used as a natural sweetener in herbal cough candies, herbal medicines, and tobacco products. Although there are many health and beauty benefits of licorice root, it is important for you to take it under the proper quantities. Licorice root may increase the blood pressure levels if taken in large quantities. Do you want to know amazing health and beauty benefits of licorice root? This article in AllRemedies.com is going to give you the useful information.
How often should I take licorice root extract for shingles?
To treat shingles and herpes, you can take the licorice root extract two or three times a day. 8. Benefits Of Licorice To Treat Salivary Glands.
How long should I take licorice root extract?
For weight loss, you just need to take three grams licorice root extract daily for about 2 months to get the best result. However, it is not recommended taking licorice root for a longer period of time. After using licorice root for 2 months, you should take a one-week break before continuing.
How often should I drink licorice root tea?
Using licorice root can promote the bowel’s health. It is recommended drinking licorice root tea two or three times daily. 6. Benefits Of Licorice In Supporting Weight Loss. You want to lose weight or build the body mass, you should be interested in the amazing benefits of licorice root.
Is licorice root good for menopause?
If you are going through the menopause and are experiencing those symptoms and discomfort, you should be interested in amazing benefits of licorice root. This is because licorice root contains antioxidant and phytoestrogenic effects . Taking licorice root can help control the production of a woman’s hormone.
Is licorice root a sweetener?
Licorice root is sweeter than sugar; therefore, it often replaces sugar in candies. It is not surprising when Licorice root is often used as a natural sweetener in herbal cough candies, herbal medicines, and tobacco products. Although there are many health and beauty benefits of licorice root, it is important for you to take it under ...
What is licorice root used for?
Chinese medicine has long used licorice root to treat many ailments, including gastrointestinal problems, malaria, insomnia, and infections. Licorice root is often used as a sweetener in beverages, candy, and medicine. It is 50 times sweeter than sugar ...
What is the most active compound in licorice?
Glycyrrhizin, the most active chemical compound found in licorice, has been studied for its medicinal properties. This powerful phytochemical has been proven to reduce body fat, heal stomach ulcers, and fight infections.
Does licorice lower Warfarin?
Licorice may lower the level of Warfarin in your body. There is no recommended daily allowance for licorice root. If you choose to supplement with licorice root capsules, check with your doctor to determine the correct dosage. You can also find licorice root in herbal teas and in licorice candy made with real licorice.
Does licorice root help with ulcers?
Multiple studies have shown that licorice root prevents and treats ulcers. It does this by increasing mucus production in the stomach, soothing the stomach lining. Licorice also increases the blood supply to the stomach, which promotes healing. Licorice also prevents ulcers from forming in the first place by suppressing gastrin production in ...
Is licorice root a sweetener?
Licorice root is often used as a sweetener in beverages, candy, and medicine. It is 50 times sweeter than sugar but provides health benefits that sugar does not. Licorice root contains over 300 chemical compounds and flavonoids. Glycyrrhizin, the most active chemical compound found in licorice, has been studied for its medicinal properties.
Does licorice root cause high blood pressure?
Low potassium levels can cause an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and may be dangerous for those with heart disease. Licorice can also cause an increase in blood pressure, so if you already have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor before eating licorice.
Can pregnant women take licorice root?
Therefore, pregnant women should avoid licorice root. Medication Interference. Avoid licorice root if you take diuretics, because it may increase the amount of potassium excreted by the body. Licorice root can also interfere with Aldactone, a blood pressure medication.
What is licorice used for?
People can use licorice in a variety of ways for medicinal purposes, such as: Mixing the herb with a skin-friendly gel, such as aloe vera gel, to help eczema.
Why is licorice used in candy?
Due to its sweet flavor, licorice is also popular as a sweetener in candies, and manufacturers sometimes use it to mask the flavor of medications. Some licorice candy does not contain any part of the licorice plant but uses anise oil as a flavoring instead because it tastes and smells similar to licorice. Licorice is available in many forms, ...
What happens if you eat too much licorice?
Consuming too much licorice can cause potassium levels to drop. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), this can lead to: 1 abnormal heart rhythms 2 high blood pressure 3 swelling 4 lethargy 5 congestive heart failure
How many compounds are in licorice?
There are more than 300 different compounds in licorice, some of which have antiviral and antimicrobial properties. Some clinical studies investigating the potential benefits of licorice have had promising results, particularly in the following areas:
Does licorice extract kill peptic ulcers?
Infection with bacteria called Helicobacter pylori can cause peptic ulcers in some people. Research suggests. that a licorice extract may help kill H. Pylori bacteria. A clinical trial of 120 people found that the addition of licorice extract to the standard treatment significantly improved H. Pylori eradication.
Does licorice root help with stomach pain?
The extract reduced nausea, stomach pain , and heartburn. Infection with bacteria called Helicobacter pylori can cause peptic ulcers in some people. Research suggests.
Does glycyrrhizin help with hepatitis C?
Glycyrrhizin may help treat hepatitis C, a virus that infects the liver. Without treatment, hepatitis C can cause inflammation and long-term liver damage. Researchers#N#Trusted Source#N#have reported that glycyrrhizin demonstrates antimicrobial activity against hepatitis C in cell samples and may hold promise as a future treatment for this virus.
What is licorice used for?
Licorice has been used as a flavoring agent in confectionery products such as chewy sweets and candy since ancient times. It is also extensively used in the tobacco industry in the manufacturing of cigars, cigarettes and smoking mixtures. It is used both as a flavor enhancer as well as a moisture-controlling agent in tobacco products. It also finds extensive use in beverages such as beer, due to its foaming qualities. [45]
What is the flavonoid in licorice root?
The flavonoid glabridin, which is present in licorice roots, helps in providing vascular protection under high glucose conditions, prevents the formation of plaques in the arteries, and stimulates the unobstructed flow of blood in diabetic patients.
What are the side effects of licorice?
Side Effects of Licorice 1 Hypertension and Cardiac Disorders: Licorice can result in hypertension and heart complications such as cardiac arrhythmia and congestive heart failure in some people. People with an existing condition of hypertension and cardiac disorders should be careful regarding their consumption of licorice. [48] [49] [50] 2 Hormonal Conditions: Licorice has an estrogenic effect in the body and may worsen hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine fibroids, and ovarian cancer. [51] 3 Pregnancy and Breast Feeding: Excessive consumption of licorice is not recommended during pregnancy, as it might result in fatal consequences such as pre-term delivery or miscarriage. [52] [53] 4 Sexual Complications: It can affect the levels of testosterone in males and reduce their interest in sex. 5 Drug Interactions: Licorice may interact with diuretics. [54] 6 Hypokalemia : It can also interact with medications that decrease the potassium content in the body, causing it to drop to dangerously low levels, resulting in hypokalemia. Significantly low levels of potassium can cause problems in the functioning of nerves, which can lead to muscle complications like hypertonia. [55] [56] [57] 7 Corticosteroids: Licorice can interact with corticosteroids such as prednisone and affect the level of the cortisol hormone, which is responsible for handling stress in the body. [58]
Is licorice good for you?
The health benefits of licorice include relief from canker sores, stomach disorders, respiratory ailments, pre-menstrual syndrome, peptic ulcers, menopausal symptoms and it helps in fighting various kinds of infections such as herpes, hepatitis, and shingles. It is also effective in relieving symptoms of various health issues such as rheumatoid ...
What is the purpose of a sage plant?
Along with its use in food, it is also valued for providing diverse medicinal benefits such as longevity and vitality, since ancient times. [1] [2]
Does licorice help with digestion?
Stomach Disorders. Phyllis A Balch, in his book, Herbal Healing mentioned that the glycyrrhizic acid present in licorice can provide protection against the growth of Helicobacter pylori bacteria and can also exert therapeutic effects in curing the symptoms of dyspepsia or impaired digestion.
Does licorice root help with menopause?
Studies have shown positive results regarding the efficacy of licorice in reducing the frequency of nocturnal hot flashes and for improving physical and psychological health in menopausal women. It contains phytoestrogens and helps in elevating the levels of progesterone hormone in the body, which aids in soothing the cramps and discomfort often experienced during menstruation. Dr. Linda Woolven in her book, The Smart Woman’s Guide to PMS and Pain-Free Periods, has stated that the root is also effective in the problem of water retention by blocking the hormonal effects of the aldosterone hormone. [16] [17]
What is licorice tea used for?
Licorice tea is most commonly used to soothe and relieve sore throats caused by infections like strep throat, tonsillitis, or throat irritations caused by postnasal drip or sinus infections. The Biomedicines Journal did a study 3 on the treatment of pharyngitis (the medical term for a sore throat with varying causes) and found that licorice root teas exhibited bactericidal effects on strep bacteria within 12 hours of exposure compared with other teas, like oregano or barberry root, which need 24 hours to produce a similar outcome. Licorice root works fast and efficiently to target bacteria, which is why it’s one of the most popular uses in TCM.
What is licorice candy?
Though today we know it most commonly as a unique bittersweet candy found in black, red, and every color in between—whose flavor is derived from the licorice root. The plant’s first uses were for medicinal purposes. In fact, licorice is considered one of the oldest herbal remedies globally, dating back to ancient Egypt and traditional Chinese ...
Is licorice a wonder plant?
So, licorice is basically an underrated wonder plant! This is simply an introduction to licorice’s extensive health benefits, so we encourage you to experiment with whatever form works best for you, as every person is different. For more on the author CLICK HERE ; for more on the illustrator CLICK HERE.
Does licorice help with eczema?
This is where licorice topical gel can shine. From acne to eczema to mosquito bites, licorice’s hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties combine to tackle pesky skin conditions. These qualities are a result of the plant’s three hundred different compounds. The Journal of Dermatological Treatment 5 conducted a two-week study on the effect of topical gel containing licorice root in which sixty adults said their eczema “significantly improved”—they reported less itching as well as a diminished presence of dryness on the skin surface.
Can you chew licorice root?
Whether your allergies come in the form of congestion, a scratchy throat, or exasperated asthma symptoms, including mild upper respiratory discomfort, you’ll want to chew on the root. The raw, unprocessed juices are the fastest way to directly target and alleviate symptoms. The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 2 explains that licorice’s anti-inflammatory properties are mainly responsible for its successful use in treating allergy-related symptoms.
Does a root tea help with thirst?
Whether it’s consumed as an extract (often added to small amounts of water), a tea, or by chewing the root, it not only suppresses thirst but also quenches thirst. It’s also said to increase cortisol levels,4 which improve energy levels and thus require fewer means of typical hydration.
Does licorice root help with heartburn?
This category of benefits covers a wide scope—from nausea to heartburn to ulcers. For an upset stomach, sipping on licorice tea or chewing on the root may settle nausea. For infrequent heartburn, licorice root can be steeped in a tea that can calm the unpleasant burning sensation.
History of licorice root
Licorice is a member of the legume family, and while there are species that grow in the US, Glycyrrhiza glabra is primarily native to Europe and Asia. Also, you may see “Chinese licorice” on products.
Health benefits of licorice root
When looking at the various compounds in licorice and their clear benefits, it is not surprising that this ancient herb has endured through the centuries!
Side Effects and Recommended Use of Licorice Root
Licorice root side effects are mostly related to glycyrrhizin, so if any of these are of concern to you, DGL
What is licorice root tea?
Licorice root tea, as the name implies, is made by steeping the roots of the licorice plant, scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra. Licorice root tea has been a popular tool in natural medicine for thousands of years, particularly in regions where this plant is native including Europe, Asia, and India. The many health benefits of licorice root ...
How long does it take to make licorice root tea?
Add the licorice root pieces to the water. Soon after you do so, take down the steel pot from the stove and allow the mixture to steep for 5-6 minutes. Strain the mixture, removing the licorice roots.
Can licorice root cause headaches?
There are quite a few possible side effects when drinking licorice root tea in excess. Some types of licorice will contain a compound called glycyrrhizin, which can cause everything from headaches and fatigue to high blood pressure and heart attacks.
Can you make licorice root tea at home?
You can make licorice root tea at home with dried licorice root, hot water, and any natural sweetener if desired. However, it is important to speak with your doctor before using this tea, as it can have a number of side effects and interactions with various medications or medical conditions.
Does licorice root tea help with throat infections?
Upper respiratory infections can be persistent and difficult to get over, but licorice root tea can quickly cut through the phlegm and mucus, soothing inflammation in the throat, and giving the immune system a boost to eliminate the underlying bacteria or pathogen.
Does licorice root help with heart palpitations?
By soothing the symptoms of seizure disorders and spasms of smooth muscle tissue in the body, licorice root tea can help to relieve heart palpitations, smooth digestive properties, and ensure proper muscle function throughout the body. [4]
Does licorice root tea help with blood pressure?
Low Blood Pressure. If you suffer from hypotension, also known as low blood pressure, the stimulating nature of licorice root tea can elevate your blood pressure to normal levels, providing a boost to your energy levels and preventing dizziness and fatigue. However, if you suffer from high blood pressure, this tea can be a dangerous choice ...