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Licorice Root

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Female problems - Menopause - PMS - Inflammation - Arthritis - Adrenal fatigue - Viral infections - Detoxification

Clinical Applications/Research

Licorice Root

In China, licorice is called, "the great detoxifier," and is thought to drive poisons from the body (Ody, P. The Complete Medicinal Herbal 1993. Dorling Kindersley Ltd, London). It has also been called, "the grandfather of herbs" because of its reputation for a wide variety of effects, including antiinflammatory, anti-arthritic, stimulant of the adrenal cortex, blood cholesterol reducer, gastric membrane soother, and possibly anti-allergenic and expectorant (ibid). Licorice is valued as a base ingredient in herbal remedies, because of its ability to help focus the purpose and direction of other herbs, as well as attenuate the harsh properties of other herbs (Landis R. Herbal Defense. 1997. Warner Books. NY, NY). Adrenal insufficiency is treated well with licorice because of the constituents that resemble the adrenal corticoid hormones. Licorice enhances immune activity, is good for digestion, is a lung tonic and energizer, reduces spasms, decreases inflammation, and has a laxative effect (ibid). Licorice has a strong antiviral effect; glycyrrhetinic acid (and derivatives) have been shown to both reduce healing time and pain correlated to genital herpes (Br J Ven Dis 1984;60:178-181), and glycyrrhizin has been shown to inactivate the herpes simplex virus type I, while stimulating immune parameters such as the signaller interferon (Experientia 1980;36:304-305). Recent animal studies even suggest that licorice is helpful for systemic lupus erythmatosus, but further confirmation is needed (J Ethnopharm 1996;53:1-4). The novel research that was conducted showed that licorice has a favorable effect on clearing immune complexes out of the body, a mechanism important in many diseases, especially in lupus, which is characterized by the production of immune complexes.

Contraindications/Toxicology

Beware of hypertensive mineralcorticoid effects with long-term use. Monitor hypertensive patients.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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