LICORICE ROOT ELIXIR
Most of us only of know licorice as a sweet black candy. You may be surprised to know that licorice is actually a highly therapeutic herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. In fact, most commercially-available licorice candy doesn’t contain any ‘real’ licorice at all – just the flavor!
The licorice plant grows throughout Europe, Asia and the Mediterranean. The root is the part most often used for medicinal purposes, and is generally made into a tincture or dried into a tea.
Licorice root boasts a huge variety of therapeutic properties. It’s a proven anti-inflammatory and immune booster, and has been used to treat a range of conditions including asthma, coughs, heartburn, viral or fungal infections, ulcers, psoriasis, sore throat, tendinitis, arthritis, and yeast infections.
But it’s licorice’s adaptogenic properties that make it a potential lifesaver for those suffering from adrenal fatigue. An adaptogenic herb is one that supports the adrenal glands and helps the body manage stress. Research has found that licorice can help to modify or even increase the body’s levels of cortisol. This means that licorice may be an effective treatment for those suffering from sub-optimal cortisol production, such as in the case of adrenal fatigue.
How Licorice Root Works
Licorice contains a powerful compound called glycyrrhizic acid. It’s this acid that stops the body from breaking down cortisol. Cortisol is the ‘stress hormone’ made by the adrenal glands and released when the body is under mental and physical pressure. Low levels of cortisol are associated with adrenal fatigue syndrome, and can lead to feelings of tiredness, mood swings and poor immune function.
Licorice root may be particularly beneficial for those suffering from adrenal fatigue, as it’s been shown to prevent the body from “using up” its stores of cortisol. It does this by reducing conversion of cortisol to inactive cortisone in the kidneys, which has the effect of increasing the availability of cortisol in the body. Glycyrrhizic acid is therefore said to boost adrenal gland function, which in turn enhances stress resistance.
This study found that licorice root can modify the production of cortisol in the body by inhibiting the enzymes that break cortisol down into cortisone, thus rendering it inactive. When a group of men and women were given a supplement of licorice extract for one week, each of the participants showed increased DHEA levels. Their cortisol levels also increased, suggesting that licorice extract works very quickly and effectively.
Other Benefits of Licorice Root
When used in the right amount at the right time, licorice root can effectively treat a number of conditions, including:
- Constipation: Licorice is an effective laxative, lubricating mucous membranes.
- Peptic ulcers: Licorice is a demulcent, helping to soothe inflamed tissue.
- Coughs, colds and sore throat: Licorice is an expectorant, encouraging the removal of mucous from the throat.
- Skin disorders: Licorice is a potent anti-inflammatory and can relieve swelling and itching.
Tincture
Licorice root tincture is the most concentrated form of its therapeutic properties, which means only a small dosage is required.
Licorice: The Herb For Ailing Adrenals
Licorice root is powerful herb with a huge variety of uses. In fact, most of us could probably benefit from licorice at some stage in our lives! As an adaptogenic herb, licorice is one of the few that has been scientifically proven to influence cortisol levels in the body. It may be ideal for someone who suffers from chronic fatigue due to low levels of cortisol.
However, because it has the potential to influence other hormones as well, licorice must be used with caution. It is advised that you have a good understanding of your health history and current conditions before taking licorice, and/or seek the advice of a health professional who can advise you on dosage.
Borrowed from: Fawne Hansen
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