Herbal Spotlight: Licorice Root

Licorice Root is traditional herbal remedy with an ancient history and world wide usage. It has been used as a treatment for coughs as long ago as the third century BC. When the 3,000 year old tomb of King Tutankhamen of Egypt was opened, archeologists found quantities of licorice stored with fabulous jewelry and magnificent art works.

Ancient Chinese divided their drugs into 3 classes, according to their reputed properties. Licorice Root was immediately put in the the first class because, “They preserve the life of man, and therefore resemble Heaven. If you wish to make the body supple, improve the breath, become old in years without aging in body, then make use of drugs of this class.” Providing antiviral, antiallergic and anti-inflammatory properties, it can be beneficial for hypoglycemia, bronchitis, general debility, stomach ulcers, indigestion, gastritis, bladder, kidney ailments, stress, colds, coughs, laryngitis or hoarseness, sore throats, fevers, nausea, and of course inflammation.

It contains properties that cleanse the colon, lowers blood cholesterol, promotes adrenal gland function, decreases muscle or skeletal spasms, and increases fluidity of mucus from the lungs. In the United States, the National Cancer Institute is investigating triterpenoids, compounds found in Licorice Root, for the capability to inhibit the growth of cancerous cells and prevent tooth decay. The Japanese are investigating the glycyrrhetic acid inside of it as a possible cancer treatment as well.

Several of our herbal tisanes feature the healing benefits of Licorice Root including;

• • Inflame Herbal Tea, in which licorice is an effective adaptogen for use as an antiviral, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties that are soothing for gastrointestinal distress.
  • Digest Herbal Tea, in which Licorice Root helps to alleviate GI symptoms including heartburn, stomach ulcers, colitis, gastritis and inflammation in the lining of the stomach.  Additionally, Licorice contains glycyrrhetinic acid which has been shown to result in decreased body fat.
  • Breathe Herbal Tea, where Licorice Root has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects which is beneficial for upper respiratory conditions, soothing sore throats that are caused by allergies.