Liquorice

(Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Description

This herb has been used since ancient times to treat a variety of common ailments. It is sweet to taste and is often used as a gentle and effective laxative. 

Chinese and Western herbalists also use liquorice root as a cough suppressant and maintain that it also soothes the mouth and throat. In addition they prescribe it for digestive disorders and maintain that it prevents stomach. It can be applied externally to relieve skin irritations such as eczema and herpes sores. 

How It May Benefit You

Take internally for: 

• cough
• sore throat
• colic
• constipation
• heartburn
• stomach ulcers
• arthritis
• hepatitis
• cirrhosis

Apply externally for: 

• skin infections,
• eczema,
• herpes sores.

Caution

You may experience upset stomach, diarrhoea, headache, facial puffiness, ankle swelling, oedema (fluid retention), grogginess, weakness. Also only use in small doses and always see your naturopath or herbalist before taking.

Do not use this herb if you are pregnant. 

WARNING:    Herbs should only be used under the supervision of an experienced herbalist or naturopath experienced in herbs.

Availability

Liquorice is available as dried root, liquid extract, and capsules.