What is Licorice Root?
Licorice root (甘草, Gān Cǎo) is one of the most important herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Known as the “Great Harmonizer” (调和药), it is often included in herbal formulas to balance the effects of other herbs.
This herb is valued for its sweet flavor (甘) and its ability to tonify Qi (vital energy), detoxify, reduce inflammation, and moisten the lungs.
Quick Facts about Licorice Root:
- TCM Category: Qi-Tonifying Herbs
- Taste & Nature: Sweet (甘), Neutral/Warm (平/温)
- Meridians Entered: Lung, Spleen, Stomach, Heart
- Common Forms: Dried root slices, powder, extract, tea
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Origin and History of Licorice Root
Where Does Licorice Root Come From?
Licorice root is native to China, Central Asia, and Southern Europe. The most commonly used species in TCM include:
- Glycyrrhiza uralensis (乌拉尔甘草) – Used in China and Mongolia.
- Glycyrrhiza glabra (欧洲甘草) – Found in Europe and the Middle East.
- Glycyrrhiza inflata (新疆甘草) – Grown in Northwestern China.
Historical Use in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Licorice root has been used for over 2,000 years and is documented in:
- 📜 Divine Farmer’s Classic of Materia Medica (神农本草经, Shén Nóng Běn Cǎo Jīng) – Han Dynasty, ~200 AD.
- 📜 Compendium of Materia Medica (本草纲目, Běn Cǎo Gāng Mù) – Ming Dynasty, ~1596 AD.
In ancient China, it was called the “King of Herbs” (百药之王) for its role in:
- Harmonizing herbal formulas.
- Detoxifying poisons and soothing inflammation.
- Tonifying Qi and supporting digestion.
Health Benefits of Licorice Root in TCM
- Tonifies Qi and Strengthens Digestion
- Best for fatigue, weak digestion, and low immunity.
- Commonly used in Spleen Qi Deficiency.
- Moistens the Lungs (润肺) and Relieves Cough
- Reduces dry cough, phlegm, and asthma.
- Found in many cough syrups and teas.
- Detoxifies the Body and Reduces Inflammation
- Treats skin conditions like eczema and acne.
- Helps liver detoxification.
- Reduces Stress and Supports Adrenal Health
- Balances cortisol levels (stress hormone).
- Used in adrenal fatigue and burnout recovery.
- Relieves Stomach Pain and Supports Gut Health
- Protects stomach lining from ulcers and acid reflux.
- Kills H. pylori bacteria, which causes stomach infections.
Modern Scientific Research on Licorice Root
🔬 Study: Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2021) – Found licorice root effective in respiratory infections like COVID-19.
✔ Helps reduce inflammation and loosen phlegm.
🔬 Study: Phytotherapy Research (2019) – Showed licorice root heals stomach ulcers and acid reflux.
✔ Protects the stomach lining and reduces H. pylori bacteria.
🔬 Study: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2020) – Found licorice root supports adrenal health and reduces stress.
✔ Regulates cortisol levels and boosts energy.
🔬 Study: Frontiers in Pharmacology (2022) – Confirmed licorice’s antiviral effects against herpes, hepatitis, and influenza.
✔ Prevents virus replication and supports immunity.
How to Use Licorice Root
Licorice Root Tea (甘草茶)
Ingredients:
• 3g dried licorice root
• 1 cup hot water
Steep for 10–15 minutes and drink warm.
📌 Best for: Cough relief, digestion, and stress reduction.
Herbal Formulas with Licorice Root
Xiao Yao San (逍遥散) – For stress and hormone balance.
Er Chen Tang (二陈汤) – For phlegm and dampness.
Precautions & Side Effects of Licorice Root
⚠ Who Should Avoid It?
❌ People with high blood pressure (can cause water retention).
❌ Pregnant women (should consult a TCM doctor).
❌ Those on heart or blood pressure medications.
Final Thoughts: Why Licorice Root is Essential in TCM
Licorice root has stood the test of time, backed by both TCM wisdom and modern science. Whether for lung health, digestion, detoxification, or stress relief, it remains a powerful herb for holistic well-being.
Considering using Licorice Root? Consult a TCM practitioner to ensure it’s suitable for you!
Easy Herbal Remedy: Licorice Root Tea (甘草茶)
Add 3g ( a few pieces) of dried licorice root into a cup of hot water (Optional, add a slice of crushed fresh ginger with skin on (生姜) – for digestion support). Cover and steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain and enjoy it warm 🙂
Best for:
Soothing coughs & sore throats
Reducing stress & fatigue
Aiding digestion & gut health
“Sip slowly, heal gently—Licorice Tea nourishes the body and calms the soul.”
Author: nadi
Helping others look and feel their best as a cosmetic acupuncturist, naturopath, and writer with a love for holistic wellness—flowing with ancient wisdom to inspire natural beauty and well-being.