The root really does have a remarkable ability to sooth a sore throat. Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra) is not merely a popular candy flavor. This potent root has been taken medicinally for thousands of years. Hippocrates, the “Father of Medicine” called it glucos riza, “the sweet root”. The ancient Romans changed its name to “Liquiritia” which evolved into word “Liquorice”, spelt in American as “Licorice”. Abu Ali Siena extolled liquorice root “asl-as-sus” for asthma.
Chinese herbalists use it liberally ot mask the bitter taste of herbal medicine.
Liquorice-Laced Confectionery (Use in medicine and daily life)
As it is 50 times sweeter than sugar, it is popular culinary flavoring. In the west it is used to make delicious black candies such as bootlace sweets and liquorice . Pieces of liquorice root are infused in hot water for a soothing tisane. It enlivens fruit juices and fruit salads. Liquorice is also used in production of some liquors, most notably Italian Sambuco.
Liquorice is valuable remedy for digestive problems. It is laxative and lowers down stomach’s acid levels so relieving heartburn. It produces thick protective mucas for the lining of stomach making it useful remedy in inflammatory stomach conditions. Chinese believe that liquorice root increases the flow of bile and neutralizes many toxins. They have used liquorice as the great de-toxifier for centuries to treat liver problems such as cirrhosis and hepatitis.
Liquorice root is demulcent, its has remarkable power to heal stomach ulcers because it spreads as protective gel over the stomach wells. It eased spasms of the large intestine. it s as effective as tagamet (currently the world’s most prescribed ulcer medicine)
In the body, the glycyrrhizin constituent of liqorice root glycyrhetinic acid, which has similar structure to the hormones of the adrenal cortex. This may explain why liquorice demonstrates potent anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritis effects similar to hydrocortisone and other corticosteroid hormones. It stimulates the production of hormones by adrenal glands. It has marked ability to help in Addison’s disease, in which adrenal glands cease to function normally. The chemical glycyrrhizin contained in liquorice reduced cancer tumors in rats; stimulates production of interferon’s and is effective even in AIDS.
Instead liquorice has many valuable healing qualities, it should be used in moderation, because it is such a powerful herb that low dosage should be used because there could be unpleasant side effects otherwise.
Since liquorice may result in an increase of the blood pressure, it is not appropriate if you have a history of hypertension, diabetes, glaucoma stroke or heart disease so though liquorice has wonderful healing properties, it is not right herb for everyone.
No related posts.
