Health benefits of licorice root
The roots of licorice serve not only the production of liquorice, but also as a cure for stomach ulcers, respiratory infections and other ailments. Read more about the licorice effect and application.
What is the healing power of licorice?
The roots of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) have an anti-inflammatory effect, liquefy the mucus in the respiratory tract and promote its ejection / coughing. In addition, licorice is effective against viruses and ulcers (antiviral and antiulcerogenic effect).
The use of licorice is thus medically approved for the following diseases:
- Stomach and duodenal ulcers
- Inflammation of the gastric mucosa (gastritis)
- Cough and bronchial catarrh
- Experiential medicine uses the juice of the liquorice root also for heartburn and acid
The main ingredients of the liquorice root are saponins (especially Glycyrrhizin) and flavonoids (such as Liquiritin).
How is licorice used?
The dried, peeled or unpeeled, cut roots of liquorice with their outliers are used for medicinal purposes. You can make a tea from it:
Pour half a teaspoon of chopped licorice root with a cup of boiling water. Let the infusion be drawn for 15 to 20 minutes and then remove the plant parts. Alternatively, you can apply it to cold water, briefly boil it up and then also let it go. Drink several times daily a cup of hot sweet-pickled tea.
You can also use the liquorice syrup made from the roots: for gastrointestinal ulcers and gastritis, about one gram of syrup is dissolved in 100 milliliters of hot water two to three times a day, and the mixture is digested (daily dose 1.5 to 3 grams).
In case of respiratory catarrh, you can also take licorice syrup, with a daily dose of 0.5 to 1 gram recommended.
Extracts from the sweet loaf root also serve the preparation of finished products such as capsules, tablets or drops. These usually contain other medicinal plants. If you are allergic to it, take it as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
What side effects can liquorice cause?
For prolonged use and at a higher dosage, an imbalance in the mineral content can occur: water and sodium are retained in the body, while much potassium is lost.
Subsequent accumulation of water in the tissue (edema), hypertension, and muscle tissue in the urine may occur.
What you should consider when applying licorice?
Adhere to the recommended dosage and duration of use. Licorice should not be used for more than four to six weeks without medical advice.
Do not use liquorice if you have liver or kidney disease, hypertension or potassium deficiency. In these cases, the risk of side effects of the sweet spot is increased.
A potassium deficiency caused by licorice can increase the effect of certain heart medications (digitalis preparations). This is especially the case when certain diuretic drugs (thiazide and grinding diuretics) are taken at the same time because they also promote potassium loss.
Therefore, it is not advisable to use such medicines at the same time. Discuss the use of licorice first with your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any medication.
Licorice may contain a maximum of 200 milligrams of glycyrrhizin per 100 grams of liquorice. An intake of 100 milligrams of glycyrrhizin per day (equivalent to about 50 grams of liquorice) is considered safe. In case of higher intake over long periods of time, hypertension and potassium deficiency may occur.
Licorice products containing more than 200 milligrams of glycyrrhizin per 100 grams must be labeled as “strong liquorice” and may only be sold in pharmacies. Please keep to the recommended döşe.
The root of licorice, ready made products and liquorice are available in pharmacies and many drugstore stores. For correct use, please read the respective package inserts and talk to your doctor or pharmacist.