Licorice root
Licorice root is the rhizome of the perennial herbaceous plant Glycyrrhiza glabra, which has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. This plant is known for its sweet roots, which contain active substances with numerous medicinal properties. Licorice grows in the southern regions of Europe and Asia, including Russia, China, and India. In ancient times, it was valued for its ability to improve the health of the respiratory system and strengthen the immune system. Today, licorice root continues to be a popular natural remedy due to its unique biochemical properties.
What’s Included
Licorice root is rich in biologically active substances, which determine its medicinal properties. The main components of licorice root include:
- Glycyrrhizic acid: This is the main active ingredient in licorice root that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Glycyrrhizic acid helps to thin sputum and has an immunostimulating effect.
- Flavonoids: These natural antioxidants help protect cells from free radical damage. Licorice root contains a variety of flavonoids, including liquiritin, isoliquiritin, and quercetin, which help strengthen blood vessels and improve overall health.
- Saponins: Licorice root saponins have cleaning properties that help thin phlegm and relieve coughing. They also have a mild laxative effect and can be used to improve digestion.
- Coumarins: These compounds have anticoagulant properties, helping prevent blood clots. Coumarins also help improve blood circulation and have anticancer properties.
- Essential oils: Licorice root essential oils have antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. They help fight infections and promote wound healing.
- Glycosides: These compounds have antispasmodic properties and help relax muscles, which is especially useful in the treatment of spasms and cramps.
- Amino acids and vitamins: Licorice root contains amino acids necessary for protein synthesis, as well as B vitamins and vitamin C, which strengthen the immune system and improve metabolism.
Due to such a rich composition, licorice root is widely used in medicine to treat various diseases and improve the general condition of the body.
Health Benefits of Licorice Root
Respiratory tract diseases
Licorice root is widely used in the treatment of various diseases of the respiratory system due to its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties. The main active ingredient, glycyrrhizic acid, helps to thin sputum, facilitating its excretion from the bronchi and lungs. This property is especially useful in the treatment of bronchitis, asthma and pneumonia.
Licorice also has a mild antispasmodic effect, which helps to relax the airways and improve breathing. In traditional medicine, licorice root is often used to make cough syrups that relieve cold and flu symptoms and reduce inflammation and throat irritation.
Skin infections
Licorice root has powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective remedy in treating skin infections and inflammations. The flavonoids and essential oils found in the root help fight bacteria and fungi, reducing inflammation and speeding up the healing process.
When applied topically, licorice root extract is used to treat eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. It helps to reduce itching, redness, and irritation of the skin, as well as promote the regeneration of damaged tissues. Licorice root ointments and creams are often used in dermatology to improve skin condition and speed up recovery.
GI and ulcers
Licorice root has a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract due to its enveloping and wound healing properties. It helps with gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, reducing inflammation and protecting the mucous membrane from irritation. Glycyrrhizic acid promotes the production of protective mucus that envelops the walls of the stomach, protecting them from the aggressive action of gastric juice.
In addition, licorice root helps to normalize stomach acidity and improve digestion. This remedy is often used in the complex therapy of gastrointestinal diseases, as it promotes the healing of ulcers and erosions, reduces pain and discomfort, and also prevents the development of complications.
Hepatitis C
Licorice root has antiviral properties that may be helpful in treating hepatitis C. Glycyrrhizic acid, the main active component of licorice root, has anti-inflammatory effects and helps reduce the activity of the hepatitis virus. It helps reduce liver inflammation, improve liver function, and reduce viral load.
In traditional medicine, licorice root extracts are used as part of complex therapies to maintain liver health and improve the overall condition of patients with hepatitis C. Regular use of licorice root preparations can help slow down the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life of patients.
Caries
The antimicrobial properties of licorice root make it an effective remedy in the fight against tooth decay. The flavonoids and glycyrrhizic acid contained in the root help kill bacteria that cause tooth decay and prevent their multiplication. Licorice root extracts can be used as a mouthwash, which helps to reduce bacteria and prevent plaque buildup. This, in turn, reduces the risk of tooth decay and inflammatory gum disease.
Licorice root also helps to strengthen enamel and improve the overall condition of the oral cavity. Using licorice root-based products can be a helpful addition to regular oral hygiene.
Throat diseases
Licorice root has emollient and anti-inflammatory properties that help treat throat ailments such as sore throat, pharyngitis, and laryngitis. Glycyrrhizic acid helps reduce inflammation and irritation of the throat mucosa, relieving pain and discomfort. The saponins contained in the root help thin mucus and facilitate its elimination, which is especially useful for coughs and colds.
Licorice root infusions and decoctions are used for gargling and inhalation, which help reduce inflammation, soften the mucous membrane and speed up the healing process. Licorice root-based preparations can be an effective remedy for relieving symptoms of throat ailments and improving overall well-being.
Contraindication
Despite its many beneficial properties, licorice root has a number of contraindications that must be taken into account before starting to use it.
- First, hypersensitivity to the components of licorice root can cause allergic reactions. People prone to allergies should exercise caution when using licorice-based preparations.
- Second, licorice root is not recommended for people with diabetes. Glycyrrhizic acid can raise blood sugar levels, which can worsen diabetes and trigger treatment adjustments.
- The third contraindication is associated with impaired liver and kidney function. Licorice root may exacerbate these conditions, as it may increase the burden on these organs. In the presence of such diseases, it is recommended to avoid the use of preparations based on licorice root.
- The fourth contraindication concerns arterial hypertension. Licorice root can cause fluid retention in the body and increase blood pressure, which is dangerous for people with hypertension.
- The fifth contraindication is hypokalemia, or low potassium levels in the blood. Glycyrrhizic acid can lower potassium levels, which can lead to worsening and serious complications.
- Finally, licorice root is not recommended for people with severe obesity. Because of its properties, it may contribute to weight gain and poor overall health.
In the presence of one or more of the listed contraindications, the use of licorice root should be carried out under medical supervision or its use should be avoided completely.
Application of licorice root
Broth
To prepare a decoction of licorice root, you need to take one tablespoon of crushed roots and place it in an enamel dish. Then pour 200 ml of hot boiled water, close the lid and insist on a boiling water bath for 30 minutes. After that, the broth should be cooled at room temperature for 10 minutes, then strained and squeezed the rest of the roots into the strained broth. Bring the volume of the broth with boiled water to 200 ml.
It is recommended to take the decoction warm 30 minutes before meals: adults and children over 14 years old 1-2 tablespoons 3-4 times a day, children 12-14 years old 1 tablespoon 2-3 times a day, children 5-12 years old 1 dessert spoon 3-4 times a day, children 3-5 years old 1 dessert spoon 2-3 times a day, Children 1-3 years old: 1 teaspoon 2-3 times a day. The broth should be shaken before use.
Infusion
Licorice root infusion is also popular for its medicinal properties. To prepare the infusion, you need to take two teaspoons of crushed root and pour 250 ml of boiling water over them. The mixture should be infused for 2-3 hours, then strained. The infusion is recommended to be taken 50 ml 3 times a day before meals. It is effective in the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases, gastritis, ulcers and with the support of the immune system. The infusion has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and soothing effects.
Tea
To make licorice root tea, you need to take three filter bags, place them in a glass or enamel dish and pour 200 ml of boiling water. Close the lid and leave for 15-20 minutes.
It is recommended to take tea warm 30 minutes before meals: adults and children over 14 years old 1/3 cup 3-4 times a day, children 12-14 years old 2 tablespoons 2-3 times a day, children 5-12 years old 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day, children 3-5 years old 1 tablespoon 2-3 times a day, Children 1-3 years old: 1 dessertspoon 2-3 times a day.
Licorice root is a natural remedy that, when used correctly, can provide significant health benefits. However, it is important to remember the contraindications and not to abuse this plant.
Literature:
- Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A Comprehensive Review on Its Phytochemistry, Biological Activities, Clinical Evidence and Toxicology (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8703329/)
- What Are Licorice Root’s Benefits and Downsides? (https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/licorice-root)
- Licorice Root (https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/licorice-root)
- Health Benefits of Licorice Root (https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-licorice-root)
Author: Natalia Kandybey, Candidate of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Quality Director of PJSC Pharmaceutical Factory “VIOLA”
The information provided is not medical advice and does not replace professional health recommendations.
The information is based on scientific literature and is provided for informational purposes only.
