Licorice (Liquorice) Health Benefits, Nutrition and Spice Facts

Health Benefits of Eating Licorice Root

• A Wonderful Expectorant

  Licorice is enriched with a compound known as glycyrrhizin. One of the health properties of glycyrrhizin is its function as an expectorant, which helps eliminating phlegm from the respiratory system and to relieve cough.
   

• Heal Peptic Ulcers

  Research has found that deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) has therapeutic effects on stomach ulcers. In a laboratory study, patients were given licorice root extract to treat their stomach ulcers. After six weeks, 90% of them have shown improvement in their conditions and 22% were cured completely. However, some clinical tests have denied the claim.
   

• Enhance Immune System

  Another health effect of licorice root is its ability to boost interferon levels. The useful compound is a powerful antiviral. Some laboratory tests even showed it helps get rid of herpes simplex virus.
   

• Aid in Weight Loss

  An important health fact of licorice had been found in a study that glycyrrhetinic acid contained in the root effectively reduced the fat on human’s thigh. Another significant finding was people who consumed 900 mg of flavonoid oil produced from licorice daily showed reduction in fat, weight, BMI and bad cholesterol after 8 weeks.
   

• Promote Digestion

  A special drink formula prepared using licorice, chamomile and peppermint is believed to contain medicinal properties, which function as a remedy for indigestion.
   

• Solution for Fatigue

  Merits of licorice are also associated with its capability of stimulating adrenal hormones including cortisol. Existence of cortisol helps fight chronic fatigue and assist your body recovers. It makes you feel better.
   

• Other Health Purpose of Using Licorice

  Licorice gel provides protection to your skin. It helps alleviate swelling and itching. 

Overview and Facts about Licorice

Licorice (scientific name Glycyrrhza glabra) is a perennial plant that is cultivated for its taproot. It is found mainly in Asia as well as Central and Southern Europe. Other names of licorice include liquorice and sweetroot. Licorice has nearly the same flavor as anise, and that is why aniseed oil is usually used in licorice candy making. In North America, the words black licorice is used to indicate confectionery that are flavored by licorice extract.

The licorice plant usually grows to 90-210 cm tall, and its taproot can grow deep until 120 cm. It contains white and purple flowers with maroon pods.

Licorice is added in candy and aperitif making as well as brewing. It is also sometimes added to prepare milkshakes and five-spice powder. 

Licorice Nutrition Facts and Calories
 

Licorice Recipe

• 240 ml dry licorice root, chopped
• 120 ml cinnamon chips
• 120 ml dried orange rind
• 30 ml cloves
• 120 ml chamomile

Preparation:
Mix all the ingredients and store in a jar. In a saucepan, combine 45 ml of the mixture with 600 ml water. Bring to a boil and subsequently simmer on the low heat for about 10 minutes. Strain through a sieve and serve warm. 

Licorice Side Effects

Health Benefits of Herbs and Spices

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