Botanical name: Glycyrrhiza Glabra
Licorice– Summary
Licorice is known to have 50 times the actual sweetness of sugar. A magical herb, Licorice is widely used to upgrade the potential of synergy between various herbs in a blend. Its major medicinal benefits include nourishing the lungs, soothing the throat, reviving the adrenals, and others. Greek and Roman soldiers were provided twigs of licorice root to quench thirst and enhance stamina when water was in lesser quantities.
About Licorice
- Besides its above-mentioned use in soothing the throat and quenching thirst, conventionally licorice has been used to help assembleemissions in the respiratory system.
- In China, it is known by the name “gancao” (meaning “sweet grass”) and has been recorded in the Shennong׳s Classic of Materia Medica around 2100 BC.
- It was thought to have the abilities of nourishing qi, alleviating pain, tonifying spleen and stomach, eliminating phlegm, and relieving coughing.
Licorice and Doshas
- With its sweet taste and cooling properties, one might not expect its value in softening Kapha, but its loosening and marshaling qualities overshadow its potential Kapha-augmenting effects.
- The weighty sweetness of licorice equilibriums and moistens vata, while its cooling effect balances intensified pitta.
Licorice- Health Benefits
- Increases energy, reduces fatigue
- Normalises hormones & balances
- Menopausal symptoms
- Sexual activity enhancer& increases semen
- Soothes the eyes
- Improves the nervous system
- Advances memory
- Supports peaceful meditation
- Treats sore throats
- Benefits coughs and breathing difficulties
- Heals ulcers and wounds
- Anti-viral, Liver protectant, Anti-inflammatory
Scientific Studies About Licorice
- A double-blind study discovered that an extract made up ofglabridin and glabrene, which are flavonoids present in licorice root, was powerful in relieving stomach discomfort. The extract reduced nausea, stomach pain, and heartburn.
- There are over 300 different compounds in licorice, some of which have antiviral and antimicrobial properties. Some clinical studies examining the potential benefits of licorice have had great results, particularly in these areas: Skin inflammation and infection, Stomach discomfort and ulcers, Hepatitis C, Sore Throat, Tooth Decay.
Dharmsala Teas with Licorice