Natural licorice candy may help to relieve certain symptoms associated with the cold and flu. Licorice is a natural plant that is commonly used to flavor candy, foods and certain beverages. The root of the licorice plant is used as a herbal supplement to treat certain conditions and symptoms. The FDA does not regulate herbal supplements. Statements made about the use of licorice for medicinal purposes are not supported by clinical research. Talk with your doctor about the use of natural licorice candy before using it to treat any condition.
Cold and Flu
The cold and flu are two different conditions that are both caused by viral infections. The common cold is a general term used to describe more than 100 viruses that can lead to upper-respiratory symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com. There is no cure for the common cold, aside from rest, increased fluid intake and a modified diet. If you have the flu, your body is infected with the influenza virus, which may be treated with medications. The common cold and the flu may cause similar symptoms, which is why the two conditions are commonly placed in a single category.
Symptoms
The main difference between cold and flu symptoms is that common cold symptoms develop slowly, while flu symptoms typically develop quickly. Common symptoms include coughing, runny nose, nasal congestion, fever, sore throat, headache, watery eyes, fatigue, muscle aches, body chills and loss of appetite, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Because symptoms are similar, you need to call your doctor for an evaluation to determine the cause. Most medications for cold and flu symptoms help to reduce the severity of the symptoms, but do not cure the disease.
Natural Licorice Candy
Natural licorice is a traditional method of treating a sore throat, although there isn't enough scientific evidence to substantiate this claim, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Licorice may interact with certain medications and should be used with caution if you have kidney disease, heart disease, high blood pressure or if you've recently had surgery, according to MedlinePlus. The amount of licorice found in candy is not enough to affect your body and is mostly likely best used during a cold or flu as a throat lozenge to coat the throat.
Considerations
Do not use any supplement or over-the-counter medications without first talking with your doctor. Common cold and flu medications include pain relievers, decongestants, cough suppressants and antihistamines. These medications are more effective and reliable to treat cold and flu symptoms than natural licorice candy. Read the ingredients on the product's label to ensure the candy contains natural licorice flavor and not an artificial flavor.
