What is licorice?
Licorice is a car plant whose underground stem and root are used medicinally. Licorice, also known as licorice root, is a woody, perennial plant that grows to about 1 to 2 meters. The long roots and hedges of licorice are propagated horizontally and underground. Licorice root is mostly used as a sweetener in candies and beverages. In addition to the use of licorice in foods, this plant has been considered since ancient times due to its various healing properties and increase in longevity and health.
Over time, the health benefits of licorice will be accepted by the medical community. However, it should be noted that medical research has not yet proven some of the health benefits of licorice. Licorice is available in many forms, such as glycyrrhizin-containing licorice and dehydrated glycyrrhizin licorice.
Licorice is a good source of a variety of B vitamins, vitamin E and minerals including potassium and magnesium. The properties of licorice are very effective for gastrointestinal diseases, skin care and treatment of depression. In this article, we will introduce you to the properties of licorice, the amount of consumption and different forms of licorice, the nutritional value of licorice and its side effects and precautions for licorice.
Licorice root decoction is one of the oldest human teas in the world. Licorice root has long been used for food and medicine in western Asia and Eastern Europe. The medicinal uses of this plant have been common in Egypt since ancient times, as a sweetener for Pharaoh’s drinks, as well as in Iran, China and Greece for stomach upsets, respiratory problems and reduced inflammation.
The active ingredient in licorice root is called “glycyrrhizin“, which causes a sweet taste and, of course, different properties of this plant.
Many benefits have been mentioned for this plant, the most important of which are:
Help heal peptic ulcer
Peptic ulcers may involve anywhere from the end of the esophagus to the beginning of the small intestine and cause painful symptoms. Researchers have found that the use of licorice root in these patients is very beneficial in reducing symptoms, and in some cases, licorice root supplement is better than omeprazole!
Help treat oral plague
Recurrent and painful aphthous ulcers known as oral ulcers also heal with licorice. Mouth sores or pests are small non-communicable sores that form in the tissue inside the mouth and on the gums. Studies have shown that treatment of the pest with licorice extract has led to a significant improvement in pain and inflammation in individuals. The beneficial substances in licorice help accelerate the healing of these wounds and are effective in stimulating the body’s defense mechanism.
Treatment of gastric disorders
Licorice root is used to relieve digestive problems. Licorice root extract can accelerate the healing of the lining of the stomach and restore balance in cases of food poisoning, stomach ulcers and heartburn. This property is due to its anti-inflammatory properties and strengthens the immune system contained in “glycyrrhizic acid”.
A study has shown that glycyrrhizic acid can inhibit the toxic bacterium H. pylori and prevent it from growing in the gut.
Elimination of menopausal symptoms and premenstrual syndrome
Licorice root is effective in treating menopausal symptoms and premenstrual syndrome. Licorice is rich in isoflavones that help maintain the balance of estrogen and progesterone in the body. Studies have shown positive results regarding the effectiveness of licorice in reducing nocturnal hot flashes and improving the physical and mental health of postmenopausal women. Licorice contains “phytoestrogens” and helps increase the level of the hormone progesterone in the body and is effective in relieving the usual cramps and discomforts during menstruation. Licorice is also effective in relieving fluid retention by preventing the hormonal effects of aldosterone.
Treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome
Licorice is useful for preventing adrenal dysfunction and helps to improve its overall function. The adrenal glands are responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol. The hormone cortisol is involved in controlling stress in the body. Of course, we should avoid consuming too much licorice. Licorice is good for people who need to take steroids for a long time because it counteracts the suppressive effect of steroids on the adrenal glands. Licorice (especially during the recovery phase after surgery) increases the body’s resistance to stress. The “glycyrrhizinic acid” in licorice is effective in increasing energy levels and reducing the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and “fibromyalgia” (a chronic musculoskeletal pain syndrome).
Treatment of tuberculosis
Studies have shown that licorice is effective in treating pulmonary tuberculosis and also helps reduce the length of treatment. Antimicrobial and antimicrobial activity The substances in licorice are effective in treating lung infections and make this plant an effective anti-tuberculosis agent.
Increasing female fertility
Licorice tea is effective in treating female reproductive problems caused by hormonal disorders such as polycystic ovaries. Licorice regulates estrogen secretion and is useful for treating female fertility problems. Licorice is effective in normalizing irregular menstruation, regulates ovulation and helps in egg fertilization and fetal growth. Many studies have shown that licorice helps lower serum testosterone levels in women, making it an effective option for the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome and “hirsutism”.
Reduce depression
Studies have shown that licorice compounds are effective in combating pre- and postmenopausal depression in women. Licorice contains essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium and beta-carotene, as well as beneficial flavonoids that help fight depression.
Elimination of neurological disorders
Licorice is effective in treating neurological disorders such as Bell’s palsy (a condition in which the facial muscles become paralyzed suddenly and temporarily) and Lyme disease. Licorice helps prevent the involuntary flow of tears and other neurological problems such as paralysis in patients with Bell’s palsy.
Help increase cardiovascular health
Antioxidant properties of licorice extract are effective in preventing cardiovascular stress in diabetic patients. The flavonoid glabridin, found in licorice root, helps protect blood vessels in the event of a rise in glucose levels, prevents plaque from forming in the arteries, and promotes uninterrupted blood flow in diabetics.
Improve cognitive function
Studies have found evidence that glabridin (a compound in licorice extract) works to protect neurons in diabetics. Glabridin helps prevent cognitive impairment and is effective in improving learning and memory functions in diabetics. The amorphrotin in licorice has anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory effects that help lower blood sugar, prevent insulin resistance, and prevent type 2 diabetes.
Prevention of diabetic nephropathy
Studies have shown that roasted licorice is effective in treating diabetic nephropathy. In diabetic nephropathy, the kidneys are damaged as a result of long-term diabetes. The inhibitory effect of licorice helps prevent and treat symptoms such as glomerulosclerosis, which can lead to diabetic nephropathy due to long-term diabetes.
Prevention of diabetic nephropathy
Studies have shown that roasted licorice is effective in treating diabetic nephropathy. In diabetic nephropathy, the kidneys are damaged as a result of long-term diabetes. The inhibitory effect of licorice helps prevent and treat symptoms such as glomerulosclerosis, which can lead to diabetic nephropathy due to long-term diabetes.
Contribute to oral health
Licorice extract is effective in preventing and treating tooth decay, inflammation and gingivitis. The antimicrobial properties of deglycerinated glycyrrhizin licorice are useful in combating Streptococcus mutans (bacteria that are the most important cause of tooth decay) and prevent the formation of biofilms (a community of microorganism cells that attach to the surface) and dental plaque. Due to its protective antibacterial effects, licorice root extract is widely used in the production of oral health products such as toothpaste and mouthwash.
Eliminate respiratory disorders and cleanse the respiratory system
Licorice is recommended for the treatment of respiratory problems. Licorice is useful in the treatment of sore throat, cough, cold, bronchitis and lung diseases such as emphysema. Licorice also helps relieve upper respiratory infections caused by viruses and bacteria. Licorice acts as a laxative and helps flush sputum and other substances out of the bronchi and lungs. This feature is effective in relieving bronchospasm. Studies have found evidence of the therapeutic effect of licorice in reducing airway congestion and its beneficial effects in the treatment of asthma .Consumption of licorice as an oral supplement helps the body to produce healthy sputum and mucus. It may seem that increasing the production of sputum is harmful to the health of the bronchial system, but quite the opposite. Producing clean, healthy sputum allows the respiratory system to function better without the presence of old, sticky mucus that blocks its passage.
Treatment of diseases caused by HIV infection
Licorice is effective in treating AIDS-related diseases. Studies have shown that glycyrrhizin in licorice root inhibits the proliferation of the infectious virus by helping to produce “beta chemokines”. Licorice helps prevent the destruction of white blood cells by the HIV virus and strengthens the body’s immune mechanism.
skin care
Licorice is an excellent healer for the skin and is useful in the treatment of skin diseases such as eczema, athlete’s foot (fungal infection of the feet) and “psoriasis”. Licorice is an effective skin treatment due to its antibacterial properties, and the use of topical gels containing licorice is recommended for the treatment of eczema. Studies have shown that topical application of licorice extract also helps relieve swelling and itching of the skin in skin diseases. Licorice extract has skin brightening properties and helps protect against “erythema” (redness of the skin due to hyperamia in the capillaries in the underlying layers) caused by ultraviolet rays, reduces inflammation and improves redness of the facial skin.
Liver protection
Studies have shown promising results regarding the properties of licorice in protecting the liver. Licorice contains “glycyrrhizin” which is effective in treating liver diseases by reducing toxicity and helps to stabilize the normal functional state of the liver. Another research study provides evidence that licorice “flavonoid azoquetidine” has antioxidant and inhibitory properties that protect liver cells from high fat, dietary damage, and oxidative stress damage. ” it helps.
Cancer prevention
Licorice has chemical preventive effects and is effective in treating various types of cancer. In some Chinese treatments, licorice is also used to treat cancer. Studies have shown the antiproliferative effects of licorice root in reducing the growth of breast cancer cells in humans. Licorice contains flavonoids such as azoethythidine, which help prevent colon cancer and stimulate cell fall, or “apoptosis” (programmed cell death). Studies have shown evidence of antitumor activity of licorice extract, which shows that licorice extract is effective in reducing the toxicity caused by chemotherapy drugs and inhibiting the production of cancer cells. But cancer patients being treated with cisplatin should avoid licorice extract. Licorice extract is also useful in treating chronic prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland) and prostate cancer.
Strengthen the immune system
Licorice improves the body’s defense mechanism. This plant is also effective in raising the level of “interferon”. Interferon is an antiviral agent that, along with glycyrrhizic acid, stimulates the activity of the body’s immune cells and helps fight viruses and infectious bacteria, such as influenza A.
Reduce atherosclerosis or atherosclerosis
Licorice root contains antioxidants that are effective in keeping cholesterol at a healthy level. The flavonoid glabridin, along with other beneficial substances in licorice, has a beneficial effect in preventing the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein or LDL cholesterol and helps reduce the risk of diseases such as atherosclerosis.
Reduce atherosclerosis or atherosclerosis
Licorice root contains antioxidants that are effective in keeping cholesterol at a healthy level. The flavonoid glabridin, along with other beneficial substances in licorice, has a beneficial effect in preventing the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein or LDL cholesterol and helps reduce the risk of diseases such as atherosclerosis.
Precautions and Side Effects of Licorice Use
High blood pressure is one of the side effects of licorice
Licorice contains “glycyrrhizic acid”, which in some cases can cause side effects. These include physical fatigue, menstrual irregularities, swelling, and kidney problems. Of course, licorice without glycyrrhizic acid (also called deglycyrrhizinic licorice) has fewer side effects.
Fluid retention and metabolic disorders: In some studies, people who consumed large amounts of licorice root over a two-week period developed fluid retention and metabolic disorders.
High blood pressure and heart disorders
Licorice can lead to high blood pressure and heart complications in some people, such as cardiac arrhythmias and congestive heart failure. People with high blood pressure or heart problems should be careful about consuming licorice. Children under the age of 10 are hospitalized for high blood pressure after consuming too much licorice.
Hormonal problems
Licorice has an estrogenic effect on the body and can worsen hormone-sensitive problems and diseases such as breast cancer, uterine fibroids (noncancerous and benign tumors that grow in the uterus), and ovarian cancer.
Pregnancy and lactation
Excessive consumption of licorice during pregnancy is not recommended, as it may lead to fatal complications such as premature birth or miscarriage. The Food and Drug Administration has advised pregnant and lactating women to avoid all forms of licorice.
Sexual effects
Licorice can affect testosterone levels in men and reduce their libido.
Drug Interactions
Licorice may interact with “diuretic” drugs.
Hypokalemia: Excessive consumption of licorice root extract or its interaction with drugs that reduce the amount of potassium in the body, causes a decrease in potassium levels in the body to a dangerous degree and muscle weakness. This condition is called “hypokalemia”. Very low levels of potassium can cause nerve problems that can lead to muscle complications such as “hypertension”.
Corticosteroids (or corticosteroids): Licorice sometimes interferes with “corticosteroids” such as prednisone and affects the levels of the hormone cortisol (which is responsible for controlling stress in the body).
Use of licorice in cooking and industry
Licorice has been used as a flavoring agent in confectionery products such as sweets and candies since ancient times. Licorice is also widely used in the tobacco industry and in the production of cigarettes and tobacco compounds. In tobacco products, licorice is used as an odor enhancer and moisture controller. Licorice is also widely used in beverages due to its foaming properties.
Consumption rate and different forms of licorice
Liquid extract
Licorice extract is the most common form of licorice that is used as a sweetener in a variety of candies and beverages. Consumption of licorice extract per person should not exceed 30 mg / ml of “glycyrrhizic acid”. Consuming more than this amount causes unwanted side effects.
powder
Licorice powder is available in health food stores and online retailers. By combining licorice powder with gel (as a base), a topical ointment can be made to cleanse the skin.
Licorice powder is especially useful in the treatment of eczema and acne. You can pour licorice powder into herbal capsules and take these capsules orally.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the recommended dose of licorice root is less than 75 mg per day.
Licorice tea
Today, the use of dried and crushed leaves of licorice as a tea is popular. You can buy this type of tea in supermarkets and health food stores.
Licorice tea is used to improve the health of the digestive, respiratory and adrenal glands. There is usually a form of licorice in teas available for bronchial and respiratory system health, cleansing and detoxification. To treat sore throat, you can also make tea by combining rosehip root, licorice root and elm bark. Of course, consuming more than 250 grams of licorice tea per day is not recommended.
Glycyrrhizinic degreased licorice
It is an licorice whose glycyrrhizin has been removed and is healthier. The amount of “glycyrrhizin” in DGL should not be more than 2%. DGL is recommended for the treatment of digestive problems, as licorice must be consumed long-term to relieve these problems.
It is important to know that DGL is available in the form of chewable tablets, capsules, tea and powder. Of course, the amount of DGL consumption should not exceed 5 Be warm during the day.
The nutritional value of licorice
Licorice contains a variety of beneficial nutrients and “flavonoids”. Licorice is a good source of vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid) and vitamin E (tocopherol). Licorice also contains minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, choline, iron, magnesium, potassium, selenium, silicon and zinc. Licorice is a reservoir of plant nutrients including beta-carotene, glycyrrhizin, glabridin, azoigetidine, thymol, phenol, ferulic acid, and quercetin.
Note that in case of certain diseases, be sure to consult a doctor before consuming licorice and then take action to consume it.
Just as licorice can cure all kinds of diseases, it can also cause allergies and all kinds of diseases. That is why it is recommended to talk to your doctor before consuming licorice to use its healing properties and then buy and consume it. It is also recommended that you consult your doctor and discuss this with your doctor, even if you experience any problems while consuming licorice.
Another point that you need to pay enough attention to when buying and consuming licorice is buying this substance from reputable centers. When buying this material, be sure to ensure its quality and then proceed to purchase it.
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