Liquorice
The Liquorice plant (American spelling Licorice) is a legume native to southern Europe and parts of Asia.
It is the root of the Liquorice plant which is used for its flavour and medicinal properties.
Liquorice has a long history of use in Chinese medicine, and has been used across centuries for a range of conditions and ailments.
Most notably Liquorice is said to maximize the qualities of other herbs and act as a ‘harmonizing’ agent in herbal tinctures and remedies, and for this reason it is present in around 50% of all Chinese herbal medicine formulas.
Traditionally Liquorice has been – and continues to be – used as a tonic for many ailments, including:
- colds, flu, coughs and sore throat
- asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory conditions, including emphysema
- viral infections
- liver problems, acid reflux, ulcers and digestion
- athlete’s foot and other fungal conditions
- gout
- fatigue
- depression
Some herbalists even recommend Liquorice in the treatment of tuberculosis, virus-associated cancers and HIV.
For further information on the medicinal properties and uses of Liquorice we suggest you consult a qualified herbal or medical practitioner.