April 1st, 2009The benefits of the use of Licorice in Herbal Preparations
by Mishelle Knuteson, M.H.
Licorice is one of the more widely consumed herbs in the world. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it occurs in more formulas than any other single herb because it is thought to harmonize the action of all other herbs. Dr Christopher stressed that we should not procrastinate in obtaining adequate supplies of Licorice root. He stated, “We import tons of it from the Middle East every year for commercial medications and the Licorice candy industry. If there was to be a transportation strike it would cripple the nation’s economy and people would bemoan the fact that the herb could no longer be obtained.” He stated that if we are in the climate to grow it in our yards that we should.
Licorice is very soothing and softens the mucous membranes of the throat, lungs, stomach, intestines, and at the same time cleanses any inflamed mucous membrane that needs immune system support. This is why Licorice is found in so many cough and sore throat medications. It reduces the irritation in the throat and yet has an expectorant action. It is the saponins (detergent-like action) that loosen the phlegm in the respiratory tract so that the body can expel the mucus. It is a potent healing agent for tuberculosis, where its effects have been compared to hydrocortisone. For colds and flu, Licorice can be combined with stimulating herbs such as cayenne or ginger to intensify the effect. For sore throat and irritated bronchials, Licorice is more effective when combined with Horehound or Mullein.
Licorice also has a soothing and healing effect on the stomach and digestive tract. It softens, soothes, lubricates and nourishes the entire intestinal tract with a formula as simple as 40% Licorice root and 60% Slippery Elm.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:59 pm
I have found all these uses to be the case for me this last week. My family, me included, all got the cold with the sore throat and runny nose. I started taking 30% Licorice and 70% Slippery Elm. My symptoms came a lot for three days and then they left. My husband and children still have them after a week and a half. I also have eliminated better because of the mild laxative effect of the Licorice. I also have really enjoyed the energy Licorice has given me!
April 4th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Mishelle,
Two comments…
1) I don’t understand how licorice could be a “potent healing agent for tuberculosis” due to hydrocortisone-like effects. Hydrocortisone is an immune suppressant and is contraindicated in active tuberculosis.
2) One thing not discussed in the article is the potential for licorice to raise blood pressure, cause fluid retention, and lower potassium due to aldosterone-like effects when taken frequently or in high doses. I think this is an important precaution to mention, especially for people who have pre-existing hypertension, kidney disease, or other conditions that could be worsened by using licorice.
April 10th, 2009 at 8:46 pm
To understand this you need to understand the principle that when you use herbs in their original state (organic or wildcrafted) the body will take the vast array of chemical building blocks and use what your body needs and eliminate the what you do not need. If a herb is standardized, hybrid, or genetically modified then everything changes you have now made a drug out of a plant, with side effects.Licorice is a very safe herb. I wouldn’t use it in large doses longer than 3 weeks and I always use organic or wildcrafted. I have seen licorice have amazing healing results.