Glycyrrhiza glabra
AKA Sweet Root. Persian Licorice. Spanish Licorice. Chinese Licorice. Gan Cao. Grandfather of Herbs
Family | Fabiaceae
Where it grows | Native to Southern Europe, India and parts of Asia. Grown in China, Russia, Italy and Spain.
Herbal Actions | Expectorant. Anti-inflammatory. Anti-viral. Adaptogen. Antimicrobial. Laxative. Anti-diabetic. Anti-tumor. Anti-ulcer. Immune Enhancer. Demulcent
Body Systems | Lungs, Balance Blood, Support Immunity and Builds Strength
Parts Used | Roots and Rhizome
Energetics | Warming. Moistening
Medicinal Uses |
Useful for coughs and congestion
Helps in the treatment of ulcers and gastritis
Treatment of hepatitis and cirrhosis
Relieves pain in intestines in diarrhea
Frequently used to alleviate symptoms of poisoning caused by pesticides, herbicides, arsenic, lead etc.
Stimulates the immune system for folks with cancer and chronic fatigue
Balances the female reproductive system during menopause
Contraindications |
Hypersensitivity to licorice
Pre-existing rental, hepatic and cardiovascular disease (risk of side effects)
Do not use with diuretics or digitalis
Use cautiously with antihypertensives, laxatives and corticosteroids
Preparation Methods | Dried root, capsules, extract, tablets and tinctures
Dosing Guidelines |
Capsules: up to 6 400-500 mg capsules a day for no more than 4-6 weeks
Tincture: 30-60 gtt up to three times a day
Powdered root: 1-2g one to three times a day
Solid (dry powder) extract: 250 to 500 mg
Jewish take on it |
Our sages knew of licorice and her greatness! So much so that they clarified which bracha to say upon use… As it says in the Shulchan Aruch, “If you chew sugar cane, you say Shehakol. Also cinnamon and licorice that you chew and only enjoy the flavor, and you discard the substance, you say the bracha, Shehakol. We get to enjoy the flavor and benefit from her medicine!
References |
Medical Herbalism, David Hoffmann
Herbal Therapy and Supplementsby Merrily A. Kuhn and David Winston
The Earthwise Herbal by Matthew Wood