Licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra)

Licorice is a woody-stemmed perennial herb that grows to about 1-2 meters. The long and wrinkled roots of licorice branch horizontally and spread out under the ground. Along with its use in food, it is also valued for providing longevity and vitality since ancient times.
Licorice or liquorice comes from the Glycyrrhiza plant species and is valued for its rich flavor. It derives its name from the Greek, glycyrrhiza which means ‘sweet root’. This herb is native to Southern Europe and Asia and is referred to as ‘sweet root’, attributing to a component called glycyrrhizin present in its root which is much sweeter than sugar. It has been appreciated in the traditional Chinese system of medicine for thousands of years and is referred to as “the peacemaker” herb. It is one of the most widely consumed herbs across the world and is currently grown in Russia, Spain, France, England, Germany, the Middle East and Asia.

The health benefits of licorice include relief from canker sores, stomach disorders such as heartburn, acid reflux and leaky gut, respiratory ailments, pre-menstrual syndrome, peptic ulcers, menopausal symptoms and it helps in fighting various kinds of infections such as herpes, HIV, hepatitis, and shingles. Applied topically, licorice can alleviate eczema discomfort and other dermatological conditions as it acts as a hydrocortisone.

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Licorice is also effective in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, cancer, tuberculosis, neurological disorders, female fertility, and obesity, while also helping to maintain healthy levels of cholesterol. Licorice extracts contain phytoestrogens, which promote detoxification, healthy skin and hair, dental health, and immune defense. Furthermore, it helps to combat body odor and depression. Ref. J Adv Res. 2015 Jan;6(1):99-104. doi:10.2016/j.jare.2014.05.001 Epub 2014 may 14. Jethnopharmacol.2005 Jul 14;99(3):317-24.Fiore C, Eisenhut M, Ragazzi E, Zanchin G, Armanini D,