The licorice root is also known as the sweet root. It is used mostly as a sweetener in candies and beverages. Also, people have used licorice root for centuries due to its medicinal properties. In the medical community, the holistic benefits of licorice root have been more accepted nowadays. But, it is important to remember that not all of these benefits have been proven scientifically. The scientific name of licorice root is Glycyrrhiza glabra. It is native to Europe and Asia. In those areas, licorice root is classified into weed.
The early Egyptians loved the licorice root and they have used it as tea. Later, the licorice root was imported to China where it became an important herb in the Chinese medicinal tradition. You can find the licorice root in different forms, like liquid extract, powder, and tea. If you consume too much licorice root extract, then it can lead to low levels of potassium in the body and this can cause muscle weakness.
This condition is known as hypokalemia. In some studies are saying that people who consumed too much licorice root in two – week period experienced fluid retention and metabolism abnormalities. Also, consuming too much licorice root can cause heartbeat irregularity, swelling, and high blood pressure. Here are some health benefits of licorice root:
Protects your skin and teeth
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The topical gel which has licorice is recommended for treating eczema. The licorice root can be a successful dermatological treatment due to its antibacterial properties. This is a reason why many holistic practitioners are often suggesting applying licorice to tooth decay to kill bacteria.
Assists cancer treatment
There are some studies in which it said that the licorice root can potentially aid the treatment of prostate and breast cancers. Also, some Chinese practitioners incorporate licorice root into cancer treatments. But, there need to be done a lot more studies in the future to approve or disapprove it.
Canker sores
In many studies is said that the licorice root can help in the healing of recurrent canker sores.
Hepatitis C
The glycyrrhizin in the licorice root can help in the treatment of hepatitis C which is a virus that infects the liver.
Colorectal cancer
Some scientists have said that the antioxidant properties of licorice root can help to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
Reduces stress
As time passes, stress can leave the adrenal gland exhausted by constantly producing adrenaline and cortisol. The licorice supplement can give the adrenal gland some relief. The extract of licorice root can stimulate the adrenal gland and this can promote a healthy level of cortisol in the body.
Cleanses your respiratory system
The licorice root can be used to treat respiratory problems. You can take licorice as an oral supplement and it can help to produce healthy mucus. The increasing phlegm production can seem counterintuitive to a healthy bronchial system. But, the opposite is true. The production of clean and healthy phlegm can keep the function of the respiratory system functioning without old and sticky mucus clogging it.
Soothes your stomach
The licorice root can be used to soothe gastrointestinal problems. In cases of heartburn, stomach ulcers, and food poisoning, the extract of licorice root can speed up the repair stomach lining and restore balance. This is possible due to the immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties of glycyrrhizic acid, which is composed in the licorice root. One study is found that the licorice root can suppress the toxic bacteria H.
pylori due to the glycyrrhizic and can prevent it from growing in the gut. Also, there are some studies in which it said that people who have gastritis, heartburn or peptic ulcer had improved symptoms when taking DGL. DGL is a safer form of licorice and it can be taken long–term if it is needed.
Functional dyspepsia
When the licorice root is used in a combination with other herbs, then it can help to ease functional dyspepsia, which is a chronic disorder marked by upper abdominal discomfort.
