Licorice Root, Powder (Glycyrrhiza glabra) – Dried Herb, Organic

Licorice root also know as Sweet root,  Russian licorice, Spanish licorice, or Turkish licorice is an herbaceous perennial that is native to the Middle East, southern Europe, and India. Licorice root is a flowering plant of the bean family Fabaceae, related to Fenugreek, Astragalus and Kudzu. Licorice root is a universal herb used  in Eastern and Western traditional medicine for thousands of years. Licorice root has a long history for strength and long life in Chinese medicine. It is one of the few herbs in Chinese medicine that balances all 12 meridians, especially spleen, stomach, lung, kidney and heart . Its first documented use dates to the time of the great Chinese herbal master Zhang Zhong Zhing, about 190 AD.

Used by the ancient Egyptians as a cure all and flavoring for a sweeet drink called Mai-sus, large quantities were found in the tomb of King Tut for his trip into the afterlife to make his sweet drink. Dioscides, when travelling with Alexander the Great, recommended that his troops carry and use Licorice for stamina and long marches, and for thirst in countries suffering from drought. Pliny the Elder recommended it to clear the voice and alleviate thirst and hunger. In the Middle Ages it was taken to help the negative effects of highly spicy, contaminated or overcooked meat. It was also used for flavoring tobacco, and as a foaming agent in fire extinguishers and beer.

Properties:

Licorice root taste and energetics are sweet, neutral slightly, bitter, moistening and cooling. Licorice has a history for soothing coughs, colds and sore throats. It can be used as a demulcent and expectorant. licorice root has also been commonly used for inflammation and mild constipation, as an aid for stress and as a liver tonic.

Combine Licorice with Mullein leaf or Coltsfoot for the lungs, with Rhodiola or Ashwagandha for adrenal support or with Slippery Elm or Marshmallow for digestive support.

How to use:

1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Licorice Root to one cup of boiling water. Steep for 15 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups a day.

Cautions & contraindications:

If over-consumed may result in high blood pressure. Contra-indicated in pregnancy and in the presence of digitalis.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.