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| Licorice |
| Description: Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root has long been used around the world for its effectiveness as an overall body tonic. It contains many vitamins and minerals, including lecithin, protein, Magnesium, Silicon, thiamine, and Vitamins B and Vitamin E. Its root is the plant part used in all preparations, and it has a strong flavor which some may find unpleasant. Licorice has long been used in Chinese medicine to enhance the effects of other herbal remedies. This enhancing behavior may be the reason for licorice’s effectiveness at improving immunity.1 Licorice stimulates immunity in several ways,2 including encouraging the growth of T-cells and interferon.3 Licorice root protects the stomach and duodenum from ulcers by increasing the production of munin, which protects the stomach and intestine lining against stomach acid.4 It also appears to help fight the H. pylori bacteria.5 Licorice Root also works as an antioxidant, and has been shown to help lower LDL levels,6 thus lowering cholesterol. Licorice is effective in regulating blood pressure, something which does not happen naturally in many Chronic Fatigue Syndrome patients.7 Taking a licorice supplementation regularly has been shown to help CFS sufferers.8 A health care provider should be consulted before licorice is added as a supplement, however, as too high a dose can cause high blood pressure. Licorice also has antiviral properties.9 It is also known to aid in the healing of ulcerative lesions like those of herpes simplex. It both speeds healing and alleviates pain.10 Topical and internal use combined appear to have the best results.11 Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, licorice may be as effective as cortisone in the treatment of itching due to eczema.12 In one study, children who took licorice internally experienced a 90% reduction in eczema symptoms. The licorice constituent glycyrrhizin is often injected as a treatment for hepatitis B and C.13,14 Laboratory studies show that it may also be useful in preventing hepatitis A from replicating.15 Use of glycyrrhizin orally has not been studied, and may not be as effective. Licorice inhibits HIV reproduction in a laboratory setting.16 Injected glycyrrhizin (extracted from licorice) appears beneficial in AIDS treatment,17 as dose orally administered licorice.18 Licorice encourages the production of mucin, which protects the digestive tract against difficulties caused by stomach acid.19 It can be taken before meals and at least an hour before bedtime to ease indigestion problems.20 Licorice can improve menstruation in women with irregular cycles. It may also help to restore hormonal balance in women with low estrogen.21 Useful in treatment of: atherosclerosis, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, cold sores, eczema, Fibromylagia, hepatitis, HIV Support, indigestion and heartburn, Immune Function Improvement, Female Infertility, Peptic Ulcer. Recommended Dosage: 500 mg daily. Contraindications: high blood pressure is exacerbated by licorice. References: 1Akamatsu H, et al. Mechanism of anti-inflammatory action of glycyrrhizin: effect on neutrophil functions including reactive oxygen species generation. Planta Medica 1991;57:119-21. |
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