Black licorice candy was traditionally flavored with natural licorice root, a plant that is native to Asia and which has a sweet, somewhat spicy flavor reminiscent of anise or fennel. Licorice root has been used medicinally in China for more than 3,000 years, and many proponents of natural medicine still use it today to treat congestion, ulcers and other ailments. Children should not take pure licorice root medicinally, although black licorice candy is generally safe, since nowadays it is usually flavored with anise or artificial flavorings. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplement to make sure that licorice is safe for you.
Stomach Ailments
In Europe and elsewhere, licorice is often used to treat peptic ulcers. According to Mark Stengler, N.D., and the Nutritional Supplement Educational Centre, licorice root provides immediate relief to ulcer suffers by calming muscle spasms in the stomach, and it also helps facilitate long-term healing by increasing blood flow and regrowing damaged stomach lining. Licorice is also a mild diuretic.
Respiratory Problems
Licorice root is a popular ingredient in many teas, tonics and lozenges used to treat colds, coughs, congestion and sore throats. Licorice acts as a demulcent to soothe raw or inflamed tissue. It is also an expectorant and helps clear excess mucus from your respiratory system.
Immunity
Licorice boosts your immune system, helping you battle viruses and infections. Some natural practitioners use licorice to treat cold sores and canker sores or to fight off the herpes simplex virus. Scientists are currently (as of 2010) investigating to see if licorice can be used to treat HIV, and early studies indicate that it may slow the advance of HIV into AIDS. However, more research is needed.
Women's Health
Licorice root contains small amounts of phytoestrogens, or plant estrogens, and some women use licorice root supplements to provide natural relief for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or menopause. However, licorice root may reduce the fertility of both men and women, and couples trying to become pregnant should not use it. Licorice root may also contribute to premature labor, so pregnant and nursing women should not use it.
Adrenal Support
Your adrenal system is responsible for fighting stress in your body, and licorice has historically been used to improve the functioning of the adrenal system and increase the availability of cortisol. Many people use licorice to treat chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.
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