Chinese Licorice

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Other names for Chinese Licorice

asian licorice
certified organic chinese licorice extract
certified organic chinese licorice (glycyrrhiza uralensis) dried root liquid extract
chinese licorice
chinese licorice extract
chinese licorice (glycyrrhiza inflata) root extract
chinese licorice (glycyrrhiza uralensis) root extract
chinese licorice, honey-roasted
chinese licorice rhizome extract
chinese licorice rhizome extract, honey-roasted
chinese licorice root
chinese licorice (root) 4:1 extract
chinese licorice (root) extract
chinese licorice root extract
chinese licorice root extract concentrate
chinese licorice root extract, dry
chinese licorice root extract, honey-roasted
chinese licorice root powder
chinese licorice root & rhizome extract
gan cao (glycyrrhiza uralensis) dried root liquid extract
glycyrrhizae uralensis
glycyrrhiza inflata root extract
glycyrrhiza uralensis
glycyrrhiza uralensis extract
glycyrrhiza uralensis root extract
glycyrrhiza uralensis root extract, dry
glycyrrhiza uralensis root- honey-fried extract
glycyrrhiza uralensis root-honey-fried extract
licorice
licorice extract
licorice root ext.
licorice root extract
organic chinese licorice
organic chinese licorice extract
radix glycyrrhizae uralensis
ural licorice extract
zhi gan cao root extract, dry

Synopsis of Chinese Licorice

History

Chinese Licorice, scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza uralensis, has been a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over two millennia. Renowned for its sweet flavor and harmonizing properties, Chinese Licorice is often referred to as "Gan Cao" in classical texts. Historically, it has been used to soothe sore throats, alleviate coughs, and support digestive health. Its anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties made it a popular remedy for respiratory and gastrointestinal discomforts.

In ancient times, Chinese Licorice was also valued for its ability to moderate the harshness of other herbs, earning it the reputation of a "herbal harmonizer." It was frequently employed to reduce toxicity, balance formulations, and enhance the efficacy of other ingredients. Notably, the famous TCM formula "Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang" combines licorice with dried ginger to address cold-induced coughs and digestive issues. Another classic blend, "Shaoyao Gancao Tang," pairs licorice with peony root to relieve muscle cramps and spasms.

Modern research supports many traditional uses, highlighting licorice’s potential in immune modulation, liver protection, and as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. Its versatility and safety profile have made it a staple in countless herbal combinations, both in Eastern and Western herbalism. Today, Chinese Licorice continues to be prized not only for its direct therapeutic benefits, but also for its unique ability to blend and enhance the positive effects of other herbs, solidifying its role as an indispensable ally in holistic wellness.

Traditional and scientific validation

Chinese Licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) is a revered herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it has been used for thousands of years to harmonize herbal formulas, soothe the digestive tract, and support respiratory health. Ancient texts often described licorice as a “mediator” herb, believed to enhance the effects of other botanicals and reduce toxicity.

Modern scientific research has begun to uncover the compounds behind licorice’s traditional uses. The root contains glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, which have been studied for their anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. Preclinical research suggests that glycyrrhizin may help modulate immune responses and protect liver function. Several laboratory and animal studies have demonstrated that licorice extracts can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and viruses, lending support to its historical use in treating respiratory and gastrointestinal complaints.

Clinical studies in humans are more limited but promising. Some randomized controlled trials have found that licorice supplementation may help alleviate symptoms of functional dyspepsia and support gastric mucosal health. Evidence also indicates potential applications for soothing cough and sore throat. However, the results are mixed, and more rigorous, large-scale human studies are needed to confirm these benefits and determine optimal dosing regimens.

Overall, Chinese Licorice continues to be an important ingredient in both traditional and modern nutritional products, valued for its versatile bioactive compounds. While more research is required to fully validate its effects, current findings reflect positively on its longstanding role in herbal health support.

Chinese Licorice is used for these health conditions

Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Acid Indigestion (Traditional)
Addictions (drugs) (Traditional)
Addictions (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Adrenal Fatigue (Traditional)
Alcoholism (Traditional)
Allergies (respiratory) (Traditional)
Amenorrhea (Traditional)
Anemia (Traditional)
Anxiety (Traditional)
Anxiety Disorders (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Canker Sores (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Traditional)
Chills (Traditional)
Cholesterol (high) (Traditional)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (Traditional)
Cirrhosis of the Liver (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Scientific)
Colds (decongestant) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (prevention) (Traditional)
Colds (with fever) (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Cough (damp) (Traditional)

Chinese Licorice is used to support these body systems

Adrenal Cortex (Traditional)
Adrenal Glands (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Bronchials (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Cortisol (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Mucus Membranes (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Stomach (Traditional)

Products containing Chinese Licorice

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.

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