Licorice

Origin and history


Licorice, known for over 4,000 years, is a major medicinal plant used in both ancient Egypt and traditional Chinese medicine. Its name comes from the Greek glukos ("sweet") and rhiza ("root"), literally "sweet root," due to its naturally sweet taste. The Egyptians made decoctions from it to soothe the throat, and Hippocrates already recommended it for respiratory and digestive disorders. Today, licorice is used as much for its benefits as for its characteristic aroma in confectionery and herbal teas.

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Properties and benefits of licorice

Licorice is known for its soothing, digestive, and anti-inflammatory properties:


  • Soothing and expectorant: it soothes the throat and supports the respiratory tract.

  • Digestive: it helps relieve stomach discomfort and heartburn.

  • Natural anti-inflammatory: it helps to soothe internal irritation (throat, stomach, intestines).

  • Tonic and balancing: it supports the adrenal glands and helps maintain energy during periods of fatigue.

  • Antioxidant: its flavonoids help protect cells against oxidative stress.

Licorice is a mild but powerful plant that affects several systems in the body.

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