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Licorice
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Overview
The plant that gives licorice confectionary its characteristic sweet taste is the same herb that is used medicinally. Herbalists regard it most highly for its health-promoting effects on the adrenal glands and the mucous membranes lining the respiratory tract.
Usage
Licorice root has traditionally been used during colds, flu and bronchitis as an expectorant remedy to promote the expulsion of phlegm from the respiratory tract. Its soothing effects on the mucous membranes mean that it also helps relieve the pain and inflammation of sore throats, tonsillitis and other throat infections. At the same time, documented antiviral activity may support the immune system's efforts to fight off the infecting organism. Licorice is commonly taken in cough mixtures that also contain other immune-boosting, expectorant and decongestant herbs such as white horehound, echinacea, marshmallow, ginger and eucalyptus. In children's cough mixtures, licorice and echinacea are sometimes combined with thyme (which has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity), ivy leaf (to help break up bronchial mucus) and red clover (traditionally used to relieve coughs, sore throats and swollen lymph glands in children). Licorice has also traditionally been regarded as a tonic remedy for the nervous system, with particular benefits for the adrenal glands, which play a central role in the body's STRESS-coping mechanisms. It is specifically indicated for people experiencing FATIGUE and exhaustion, especially when these symptoms are associated with ongoing periods of STRESS and tension. In these circumstances, licorice root is often taken with other herbs that support the nervous system and help relieve STRESS and FATIGUE. Important ingredients to look for include Korean ginseng, Siberian ginseng, rhodiola, withania, oats and gotu kola. This combination of herbs helps a STRESSed body to re-build the strength and resilience of worn-out adrenal glands, and also supports the immune system. It is ideal to take during times of exhaustion or ongoing STRESS, and may be particularly useful if the situation contributes to erectile dysfunction. Since licorice has mild oestrogenic properties, it may be especially beneficial when symptoms of FATIGUE, ANXIETY, DEPRESSION or nervous tension are associated with MENOPAUSE. In this case, licorice is best taken with hormone-balancing and STRESS-relieving herbs in a MENOPAUSE relief formula that helps relieve symptoms such as FATIGUE, ANXIETY, hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness and fluid retention. Important ingredients to look for include red clover, vitex, dong quai, sage, Korean ginseng and black cohosh. Licorice is sometimes incorporated into a multi-herbal tonic that works synergistically to support the functioning of all the body organs. Other herbs that are typically included in a blend like this include remedies for the digestive system (e.g. globe artichoke and ginger), immune system (astragalus and echinacea), cardiovascular system (ginkgo and hawthorn), and nervous system (Siberian ginseng and gotu kola).
