Do you remember from your childhood candy wrappers in many flavors? Each color was responsible for a fruit . The green ones tasted like apples or kiwi, unknown to us at the time, red ones - strawberries, yellow lemons ... There were also black ones. I didn't know a single kid who liked them, everyone was willing to get rid of them, giving them back to others in a friendly manner. This was the licorice flavor. Strangely sweet flavor and definitely black color  discouraged.  

Do you know what an amazing plant licorice is?

This is one of the best toning herbs. Provides nutrients to all organs of the human body. Plus, it's anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. 

Licorice root stimulates the production of several types of immune cells and increases the production of interferon ( a group of proteins that are produced and released by the body's cells in response to pathogens) , while also reducing inflammation in the body. Whole licorice root is most effective. For ulcer problems, glycerin-free licorice (so-called DGL,  glycyrrhizinic acid - a compound that is 50 times sweeter than white sugar, it is what gives licorice that sweet taste),  however, this one will not be effective against the flu or colds. DGL licorice is as effective as regular licorice, but it does not affect the levels of potassium and sodium in the body.

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When to reach for this amazing herb?

Licorice is used as a remedy:

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•   an expectorant that relieves hoarseness and cough - especially dry cough. Modern phytotherapy recommends its use also in case of  bronchitis, asthma, pharyngitis and tonsillitis  ( 1 ), ( 2 ). It has a diastolic and anti-inflammatory effect;

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• in gastric and duodenal ulcers ( 3. ) , ( 4. )

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• for heartburn and acid reflux  ( 5. )

• for skin inflammation , eczema and eczema. The glycerinic acid contained in licorice soothes skin conditions ( 6. ). Topical licorice can reduce discomfort from eczema and other skin problems because it acts like hydrocortisone (a steroid drug used to treat skin problems). The herb is added to cosmetics  intended for irritated, red and overly sensitive skin, as well as oily and acne-prone skin. Extracts are also used as a valuable ingredient in shampoos for damaged, delicate and brittle hair, as well as in bath preparations  ( 7.)

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• supportive of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)  and menopause. Licorice root, in women, has an estrogen-like effect, which is why it supports problems related to menstruation and fertility​ ( 8 ) and minimizes hot flashes in menopausal women ( 9) .  

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• in cases of adrenal insufficiency . Licorice helps the body regulate the stress hormone cortisol more efficiently. It turns out to be one of the main adaptogenic herbs that help improve the stress response . ( 10. ) and adds energy;

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• regulates blood sugar levels ; Licorice extract alleviated blood glucose levels, restored kidney function, and attenuated weight loss ( 11. );

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• it is mildly laxative , therefore it is worth using it in case of constipation:

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• is an herb that  brings relief and its antispasmodic properties  They can have  effect on abdominal cramps as well as muscle cramps ( 12 .  ). Its anti-inflammatory action can help relieve pain, including joint pain;

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• works against caries and periodontitis . D wa compounds found in licorice - lycoricidin and lycorrhoflavate A -  inhibits the growth of two species of bacteria responsible for the development of caries and periodontitis  ( 13. );

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• It supports the fight against breast cancer .  Licorice root may have chemopreventive effects against human breast cancer   ( 14. );  

• has an effect  antiviral.  Research carried out in 2003 shows that glycyrrhizin (glyceretinic acid) contained in licorice may help fight the SARS virus ( 15 ). Licorice is the right herb to treat and prevent diseases such as hepatitis C, HIV and flu. It has been confirmed that the content of triterpenoids has an antiviral effect, which makes licorice extract a potentially strong partner for the immune system ( 16 ) . strengthen the immune system.

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Dosage:​

During the day, 10-20 g of root, not longer than 6 weeks.

2-4 glasses of decoction a day (1-2 teaspoons of dried, chopped root pour a glass of hot water and simmer for 5-10 minutes)​ or  infusion (1-2 teaspoons of dried, chopped root pour a glass of hot water and brew for 30-40 minutes)

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ATTENTION:

Licorice should not be used for more than 6 weeks, then you need to take a break. 

Pregnant women, breastfeeding women and people suffering from hypertension, diabetes, thyroid, liver, kidney and heart diseases, as well as those taking corticosteroids should not take licorice, unless otherwise indicated by a doctor.