Licorice Root

Licorice root herb is one of the longest used herbal remedies, spanning back thousands of years. Licorice is a perennial herb that gives off purple and white flowers. The root, which is the part harvested for medicinal uses, has a wrinkled, brown appearance.

A variety of civilizations and cultures have prized this herb for different reasons.

For example, the Greeks used it to alleviate coughing and to placate upset stomach. In China, it was prized for its alleged ability to increase lifespan.

Anecdotal uses are one thing, but what about the scientific efficacy behind it?

The Science behind Licorice Root

Licorice root, unlike some other herbal remedies, has been studied extensively. In fact, it was even studied by the National Cancer Institute.

Here's what we know about this herb now:

It harbors a compound called glycyrrhizin that is responsible for many of its therapeutic properties.

The glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory properties, and can boost levels of interferon, which fights viruses.

For these reasons, it is used to boost the immune system, and combat respiratory conditions because it may counter viruses that cause coughing and sore throat.

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, licorice herb is used sometimes to help mitigate arthritis pains and inflammation of the liver (and thus may help with hepatitis).

Phytochemicals present in the root may also have a beneficial effect on the adrenal glands and help it secrete more of the body's adrenal hormones. As such, is used by some to help with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.

Licorice root herb also contains other beneficial compounds and substances such as antioxidants and flavonoids. The glycyrrhizin can have estrogen-like effects, which is why it is also used for PMS and menstrual problems.

Nutritional Supplement Info's tips on Choosing a Licorice Root Herb Supplement

When choosing a supplement, it's important you buy the root extract. Some of the beneficial substances present in it are only available in the extract form, or supplements made out of these extracts.

Licorice candy, for example, does not contain some of these beneficial compounds.

One of these benificial compounds, called glabridin, may even help counter the damage from LDL -- the "bad cholesterol" -- that can cause clogging of arteries.

Side Effects of Licorice

Please click here to visit our licorice side effects page and learn about these precautions.