Licorice, an effective anti-viral herbal medicine

Where does Licorice come from?

Licorice was one of the first foods studied by the US National Cancer Institute''s experimental food programme.

Licorice is cultivated in Greece and Turkey and is a member of the pea family. The medicinal properties are in the roots which contain glycyrrhizin.

This herbal medicine is also used as a curing and flavouring agent in the tobacco industry.

How can Licorice help me?

The medicinal component of Licorice, glycyrrhizin, has been shown in several studies to have antiviral activity against the human immunodeficiency virus. (HIV)

Licorice is also beneficial for people suffering from respiratory problems because it fights the viruses that attack the respiratory tract. This herbal medicine relieves symptoms such as coughing, a sore throat and it also helps to thin mucus.

Licorice is often used by dieticians to treat fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and other disorders affected by the body’s levels of cortisol, an adrenal hormone.

Studies have shown that Licorice is beneficial for hepatitis, combating liver infection and fighting the virus that triggers the disease.

Another form of Licorice, DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is helpful in cases of heartburn, stomach ulcers and inflammatory bowel disease.

If I am already on medicine, what are the interactions or side effects I need to know about when using Licorice?

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

People who suffer from high blood pressure should not take Licorice as this herbal medicine acts on the adrenal glands, increasing blood pressure.

Individuals consuming large amounts of Licorice can suffer from sodium and water retention.

How do I take Licorice?

A dose of 200mg Licorice three times a day is recommended for most disorders, but for digestive complaints, 380mg of DGL three times a day is recommended.