Liquorice is one of the miraculous herbs with several medicinal virtues and benefits. The beneficial properties and contraindications of Liquorice excite many connoisseurs. This article intends to discuss everything you need to know about Liquorice. Let’s start with its chemical composition!

Liquorice Composition

Liquorice is beneficial due to its rich composition. The roots and leaves of the Liquorice plant contain:

• vitamins of subgroup B - B1 and B2, B9, B5;
• vitamins E and A;
• essential oils and natural acids such as linoleic and linolenic;
• saponins and alkaloids;
• resins and phenolic compounds;
• coumarins;
• amino acids and antioxidants;
• choline and gum;
• tannins;
• iron, silicon, cobalt and zinc;
• potassium, manganese, magnesium, selenium and chromium;
• calcium and phosphorus.

A particularly useful component of the plant can be considered the substance glycyrrhizin, which gives Liquorice its sweetness. The advantage of glycyrrhizin is that it improves the production of hormones, especially cortisol.

Properties and Benefits of Liquorice

Anti-inflammatory and Antiviral Properties

Its active ingredients give it anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help relieve inflammation of the digestive and respiratory systems and against joint inflammation. If consumed in the form of an infusion, Liquorice can help slow down the development of viruses.

In addition to its anti-inflammatory action, Liquorice also acts on immune functions and can help fight the infections responsible for respiratory tract inflammation, such as the common cold.

Expectorant

Liquorice can be used to ease coughs. It is often associated with Thyme, Marshmallow, Rosemary, and Eucalyptus for cough. It can be consumed in the form of an infusion, decoction, tincture, or fluid extract.

The best way to consume this virtuous herb is in the form of supplements, both in capsules and tincture form.

Calming Properties

Liquorice has calming properties that enable it to fight against digestive disorders, including epigastric bloating, slow digestion, belching and flatulence. It is used and is effective in ulcers and gastritis. The flavonoids in this plant help it kill the bacteria responsible for stomach ulcers.

Liquorice also acts as a laxative that can be helpful in both constipation and diarrhea. Due to its properties, it can help to eliminate problems with the stomach and intestines, relieving heartburn and bloating.

Liquorice for Hormones

The glycyrrhizin in Liquorice produces effects on estrogen activity. Indeed, it binds to the receptors of these hormones, which blocks them and reduces their action, especially when the estrogen levels are too high during the premenstrual period.

Liquorice serves as a very effective light substitute when estrogen levels are lower. At the same time, it is also recommended in case of certain conditions of the menstrual cycle or problems related to menopause.

Liquorice Against Bad Cholesterol

Thanks to its effective components, regular consumption of Liquorice can significantly improve bad cholesterol levels. It also allows better blood circulation and helps inhibit blood clotting.

Do not forget to share this information with your friends and family so that they can benefit from this virtuous herb, and let us know if it helped you!