Licorice root is a popular health supplement that has numerous health benefits. The glycyrrhizic acid found in it has anti-inflammatory properties and can improve skin health. It can also reduce hot flashes and night sweats, common symptoms of menopause. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before taking it for extended periods.
1. It Helps to Detoxify the Body
Glycyrrhizic acid in Licorice root helps to support the liver by nourishing it and encouraging bile production, thus assisting in detoxification. It has been shown to protect against alcohol-induced liver damage by increasing antioxidant levels (15). It also improves a healthy inflammatory response and stimulates a normal metabolic process (16).
It has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties that aid in fighting infections. It has a natural soothing effect on the throat, reducing symptoms of colds and flu. The glycyrrhizic acid content in licorice also acts as an antispasmodic, helping relieve irritated digestive tract and stomach ulcers. It also helps lower stomach acid, relieve indigestion, treat heartburn, and ease inflammation.
Licorice root also has anti-stress and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce cortisol levels in the body. It has also been used as a herbal remedy to balance hormones in women, relieving PMS and menopause symptoms. It has an estrogen-like effect and improves adrenal function (20). This herb is also a hormone replacement therapy to treat polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). (22)
2. It Helps to Reduce Stress
Licorice Root is known to have anti-stress properties. It helps to boost energy levels and increase endurance. It also has an expectorant action that can help clear lung congestion. It also helps to reduce acid reflux symptoms.
It contains compounds called glycyrrhizic acid that can help to reduce Stress in the body. Glycyrrhizic acid can prevent the breakdown of adrenaline and cortisol in the body, making it easier for people to deal with Stress. It can also be used to help relieve stomach ulcers. One study found that using a solution of DGL dissolved in water four times a day for six weeks reduced stomach ulcers.
The flavonoids in licorice, such as glabridin and liquorritigenin, may help to protect against hormonal changes during menopause. These chemicals may also reduce bone loss and improve cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women. However, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these compounds. Talk to your healthcare provider before starting a supplement regimen that contains licorice root. Sticking the dosage guidelines provided by your doctor or supplement manufacturer is important.
3. It Helps to Burn Fat
Licorice root is 50 times sweeter than sugar and contains several nutrients, including dietary fibers, minerals, vitamins, and enzymes. It helps improve digestion and boosts liver and brain health. It also promotes healthy weight loss. However, too much licorice can cause some adverse effects, such as high blood pressure, low potassium levels, and kidney problems. Therefore, people with these issues should avoid consuming glycyrrhizic acid-containing licorice supplements.
The flavonoid glabridin in licorice root has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can even help treat stomach ulcers by promoting the healing of gastric lesions and decreasing inflammation. Glabridin also prevents oxidative damage in the brain by increasing antioxidant levels and preventing nerve cell death. It also reduces seizures in diabetic rats.
A study found that a licorice root supplement with 7% glycyrrhetinic acid reduced body fat percentage without changing caloric intake or activity level in two months. The supplement also increases the body’s water storage. This is beneficial because excess body fat is a risk factor for heart disease and diabetes. It is also a natural stress reducer and can improve adrenal function in those with adrenal fatigue.
4. It Helps to Relieve Throat Symptoms
Glycyrrhizic acid, found in licorice root extract, offers many benefits to the body. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and is known to soothe throat irritation. You can get glycyrrhizic acid in various products, including supplements and topical skin products. It also has several antioxidants, including flavonoids and coumarins.
Licorice root is a remedy for ulcers, coughs, cold and flu symptoms, menstrual cramps, and hot flashes during menopause. It is recommended to talk to your healthcare provider before adding licorice root to your diet. Licorice root can have adverse effects if consumed in large quantities. It can cause the body to store water, increase blood pressure, and lower potassium levels. In addition, it can interfere with certain medications, such as digoxin.
It is also recommended not to consume licorice products during pregnancy, which can lead to miscarriage and premature birth. Additionally, it is not safe for breastfeeding women. Avoid consuming it with estrogen-sensitive conditions such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids. If you plan to take licorice supplements, always follow the dosage guidelines on the supplement bottle.
5. It Helps to Treat Hepatitis C
Licorice root is a natural remedy for treating Hepatitis C. It contains chemicals that can kill Hepatitis C viruses and reduce inflammation. It also has antioxidant properties that protect against free radical damage. Licorice root can be taken as a supplement or added to herbal tea. It would be best to talk to your doctor before consuming licorice root supplements.
Studies suggest that licorice can help alleviate the symptoms of functional dyspepsia, a common condition marked by bouts of upper abdominal pain. However, more research is needed to support this claim.
The glycyrrhizin in licorice can cause high blood pressure, heart failure, and kidney problems. It can also be dangerous for pregnant women. Heavy consumption of glycyrrhizin-containing licorice can lead to a miscarriage or premature birth. It is also not known whether licorice is safe to use while breastfeeding.
Licorice root has been linked to several health benefits, including relieving acid reflux symptoms, soothing a sore throat, and aiding menopause symptoms. It may also reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes in postmenopausal women. Licorice is generally considered safe for most adults when used as directed. However, following the recommended dosage guidelines on the supplement label is essential, and consult your physician before taking a licorice root supplement.
