Herbs
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra)
| A.K.A.: |
Licorice Root, Sweet Wood |
| Part Used: |
Root |
| Properties: |
Alterative, Antibacterial, Anticatarrhal, Anti-Inflammatory, Antiviral, Cholagogue, Demulcent, Estrogenic, Expectorant, Purgative (gentle), Sialoguge |
| Primary Nutrients: |
Biotin, Chromium, Iodine, Lecithin, Manganese, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Phosphorus, Vitamins E, B-complex and Zinc |
| Primary Uses: |
Addisson's Disease, Adrenal Gland Problems, Blood Impurities, Colds, Coughs, Diabetes, Drug Withdrawal, Ear Infections, Energy/lack of, Fatigue, Hoarseness, Hyperglycemia, Hypoglycemia, Lung Disorders, Sex Drive/inhibited, Throat/sore, Vitality/lack of |
| Secondary Uses: |
Abscesses, Age Spots, Allergies, Arteriosclerosis, Arthritis, Asthma, Bronchitis, Circulation/poor, Constipation, Cushing's Disease, Dizziness, Edema, Emphysema, Endurance/lack of, Fevers, Flu, Heart Problems, Impotency, Liver Disorders, Menopausal Symptoms, Phlegm, Ulcers |
Licorice helps in healing gastric and duodenal ulcers. Licorice also helps stimulate the defenses that prevent ulcers from forming. It seems to stimulate the increase of cells that protect the lining of the gastrointestinal system. Licorice has been used since as far back at the 16th century in Europe to treat sore throats, menstrual cramps, fever, arthritis, respiratory problems and hypoglycemia.
Introduced to the Native Americans by the English settlers, it was used to treat earaches, colds, lung congestion, and to disguise the taste of bitter herbs.
Licorice is a good source of the female hormone estrogen and contains estrogenic activity. It is used for female problems relating to menopause and menstrual cramps.
Licorice may also be useful for protecting against and healing ulcers as well as a treatment for hepatitis.
Studies are underway regarding licorice as a treatment for Addison's disease, which involves inadequate adrenal function. The glycyrrhizin in licorice stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce aldosterone.
- Normalizes ovulation in women experiencing infrequent menstruation.
- Contains a natural hormone that will replace cortisone.
- Stimulates adrenal functions without depleting them (Addison's disease).
- Soothes and heals inflamed mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.
- Digestive aid, protection against ulcers.
WARNING: Licorice may increase blood pressure and may cause water retention.
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