Liquorice root was popularly used by the Egyptians as a cure-all concoction and in tea. Later the Chinese imported it and gradually it became a tradition for them to use this medicinal herb. The herb is native to Asia Minor to Iran, the Mediterranean as well. Liquorice is nothing but the word used to refer to the root of Glycyrrhiza Glabra, the plant. The plant is native to Asia and Europe. It is also classified as a weed. Liquorice is available containing deglycyrrhizinated licorice, DGL or glycyrrhizin.
A lot of developing nations manufacture Liquorice products that many not actually contain Liquorice but may have the characteristic taste and smell of black licorice.

Liquorice is known by a number of other names including Glycyrrhiza glabra Acide Glycyrrhizique, Glycyrrhiza glabra typical, Acide Glycyrrhizinique, , Chinese Licorice, Glycyrrhiza, Alcacuz, Glabra, Alcazuz, Gan Zao, Bois Doux, Gan Cao, Bois Sucr , Deglycyrrhized Liquorice and Can Cao.

Uses

Liquorice extract can be taken orally for treating, colic, ulcers in the stomach, inflammation of the stomach lining, heartburn, chronic gastritis and other ailments of the digestive system. Infections caused by viruses and bacteria, cough, bronchitis and sore throat can also be treated with Liquorice extract.

Root of the plant is better known as sweet root and is utilized to sweeten up beverages and candies. Since centuries, Liquorice has been utilized for its medicinal qualities. Medical research has proven quite a number of its medicinal benefits. The medical community has gradually accepted holistic and overall benefits of the Liquorice root. It is also used to add flavor to tobacco products, beverages and foods.

A type of diabetes caused by deficiency of hormones, called Addison "s disease is also treated by administering Liquorice orally. Besides this osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, tuberculosis, disorders in liver, food poisoning, high levels of potassium in blood, abscesses, rash, malaria, hypertonia or excess muscle tone, can be treated with Liquorice extract. To improve adrenal gland functions and treat people who take steroids, it can be taken with other herbs like Bupleurum falcatum and Panax ginseng.

Respiratory System Cleansing

Respiratory issues can be treated well with Licorice. Healthy mucus is produced by taking Liquorice as an oral supplement. Healthy and clean phlegm production is always good for the respiratory system. If the mucus is sticky and old it can clog up the respiratory system.

Stress Relief

Liquorice extract help is reducing stress. Stress causes constant production of cortisol and adrenaline. Over a period of time, the adrenal gland gets exhausted with chronic stress. Liquorice supplements are good to take to provide relief to the adrenal gland. Liquorice root extract balances and stimulates the adrenal gland and in the process promotes healthy cortisol levels within the body.

Dental And Cancer Treatment

Liquorice root has great potential in the treatment of prostate and breast cancer. In many of the Chinese practices, it has been incorporated as part of cancer treatment. Eczema can also be treated with topical gels containing licorice. Due to its antibacterial properties it is a successful remedy to protect teeth and skin. In case of tooth decay, simply apply Liquorice gel to the affected area to kill bacteria