When we think of licorice, candies or sweets with a specific flavor come to mind. However, this plant contains many properties for which it can be used to treat ailments of the human body, such as stomach problems or cold symptoms, and being an excellent source of iron. Despite the beneficial effects of licorice, a series of precautions must be taken when consuming it. Therefore, in this FastlyHealarticle, we explain the properties of licorice and its contraindications.
Table of Contents
Licorice properties: internal use
Most properties of licorice act internally in our body, so one of the best options to benefit from its positive effects is preparing an infusion with the root of this plant.
- Digestive. Licorice has antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and antacid properties, making it an excellent ally to combat stomach problems, such as indigestion or flatulence. In addition, it can also be beneficial for some more serious diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Another of the properties of licorice is to fight heartburn, helping to alleviate its symptoms thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antiulcer power. Finally, this plant is also known as a remedy to relieve constipation.
- Liver protector. Licorice has a compound called glycyrrhizin. This compound allows the liver to eliminate harmful toxins since it has a protective function. For this reason, licorice is effective when treating liver diseases, such as hepatitis B or cirrhosis, as well as being used in cleansing diets.
- Infectious diseases. The properties of licorice strengthen the immune system, which translates into an increase in defenses. This improvement in the correct functioning of the immune system is beneficial in treating diseases such as influenza, tuberculosis, or some viruses. This is explained by the fact that it also acts as an antibacterial while stopping the proliferation of viruses found in the body and improving defenses.
Other internal uses of licorice
The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has estrogen-regulating properties in women. Therefore, its consumption after the arrival of menopause can reduce some of the symptoms that the period entails. In addition, licorice affects the body and lower body temperature, allowing combat heatstroke that menopausal women can suffer.
Another of the properties of licorice is its stimulating effect on the human body, along with sarsaparilla. The best option to achieve this effect is to prepare licorice and sarsaparilla for a month, drinking one glass a day.
Licorice properties: external use
One of the main properties of licorice in its external use lies in its ability to fight viruses, bacteria, and fungi thanks to its glycyrrhizin content, preventing their growth. One of the most popular uses of licorice root is to combat the appearance of herpes viruses, such as herpes zoster, helping its symptoms to disappear more quickly. Likewise, its use can also be applied to treat fungi and psoriasis.
On the other hand, the properties of licorice can be beneficial to treat vaginal infections by applying the infusion of this licorice in the external area as a wash.
Finally, another of the properties of licorice is to combat the hormone responsible for hair loss, helping to combat alopecia and considerably reducing hair oil, dandruff, and seborrhea.
Contraindications of licorice
The problems that licorice can cause are caused by excessive root consumption. Therefore, moderate consumption of the plant should be carried out. Most of the poisonings taken by licorice are related to a high intake of candies made from this plant. That is why licorice consumption should be moderate since taking more than necessary can increase fluid retention and cause hypertension.
Other ways licorice can harm include:
- Sexual appetite. Licorice can reduce the level of testosterone in men, impairing libido.
- Renal failure. Licorice stimulates the secretion of urine, so in cases of kidney failure, its consumption should be avoided.
- Pregnancy. The stimulating effects of licorice produce an increase in the normal flow of menstruation, and during pregnancy, it can increase the chances of causing a miscarriage. Neither is its consumption recommended during the lactation period.
- Premenstrual syndrome. Taking licorice before the menstrual period can promote fluid retention by promoting swelling.
How to consume licorice
There are several ways in which to benefit from the properties of licorice. We can get this plant in herbalists and natural stores. One of the most widespread uses when taking licorice is preparing an infusion. It is only necessary to boil water and add licorice root. Also, another of the most common ways to consume licorice is in the form of pills, which are introduced into the mouth and sucked. These tablets are commonly treated for aphonia, throat irritation, and other respiratory problems.
Finally, licorice tincture is another way to obtain its properties. Usually, this last way of consuming licorice is based on introducing a few drops in a glass of water to apply it on the skin in gauze later and treat skin conditions.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Licorice Properties, we recommend that you enter our Wellness category.
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.