Containing B and C vitamins, licorice extract also contains a variety of minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium and selenium. Used widely in China as an herbal tonic, licorice extract has been used throughout history to treat a variety of ailments. According to Phyllis Balch of "Prescription for Nutritional Medicine," licorice extract cleanses the colon, promotes adrenal gland function and works as a natural antibiotic to fight infections.
For Colds
According to Mountain Rose Herbs, licorice extract is especially beneficial for treating colds that are accompanied by an upset stomach. Licorice extract may also be useful for treating upper respiratory infections, bronchitis, sore throats and persistent coughing. Perhaps this is why licorice extract is an ingredient in over-the-counter cough medicines.
For the Stomach
Dr. Andrew Weil of "Natural Health, Natural Medicine" recommends a licorice extract known as deglycyrrhizinated licorice or DGL to protect the stomach lining and speed the healing of an ulcer. DGL extract is licorice extract, which has had a chemical called glycyrrhizin removed. This compound may raise blood pressure. Dr. Weil says that licorice lends natural soothing and healing properties to the stomach.
Other Benefits
In the time of Hippocrates, licorice root was given by physicians to prevent thirst in conditions of dropsy. Traditionally, some Europeans drink large quantities of licorice tea as it has a reputation for being a blood purifier. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, licorice extract may be taken to combat chronic fatigue. According to Mountain Rose Herbs, over 5,000 Chinese herbal formulas use licorice to sweeten a tonic or to bring "harmony" to contrasting herbs. In liquid form, licorice extract is particularly useful when added to medicines to disguise other bitter-tasting ingredients.
Precaution
Because consuming licorice may deplete potassium production, it is important to include potassium-rich foods such as bananas in the diet when taking licorice extract. When taken in large quantities, licorice root will cause stomach upset. Those who are asthmatic and on steroids or inhalers should be aware that licorice increases their effectiveness while also increasing their side effects.
References
- Mountain Rose Herbs: "Licorice Root, Powder and Sticks"
- Botanical.com: "Liquorice"
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch: 2002
- "Natural Health, Natural Medicine"; Dr. Andrew Weil: 1998
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