Glycyrrhiza glabra uses and benefits

Licorice root, known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, has a wide range of uses and benefits, including supporting respiratory health, aiding digestion, and promoting skin health. It’s also used in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties.

Respiratory Health:
Expectorant and Soothing:
Licorice root helps loosen mucus and soothe irritated airways, making it beneficial for coughs, colds, bronchitis, and asthma.
Immune Support:
It can boost the immune system by increasing interferon levels, which help fight off viruses.
Digestive Health:
Stomach Lining Support: Licorice root has a demulcent action, soothing and protecting the stomach lining, which can help with indigestion, heartburn, and ulcers.
Reduced Acidity: It can help reduce acidity and soothe stomach discomfort.
Skin Health:
Anti-inflammatory:
Licorice extracts can help manage skin conditions like eczema, acne, and hyperpigmentation.
Antioxidant:
It protects the skin from free radical damage, which can lead to wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Hypopigmentary:
Licorice helps prevent the production of melanin in damaged skin cells, which can help fade hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.
Other Benefits:
Liver Support:
Licorice has anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect the liver from alcohol-induced injury and offer relief in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Oral Health:
It can help reduce gum swelling and bleeding, and some studies suggest it may protect against tooth decay.
Adrenal Support:
Licorice root may help support adrenal gland function, potentially aiding in managing stress and fatigue.
Hormonal Balance:
It may help regulate hormones, potentially aiding in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Brain Health:
Some research suggests that licorice may be beneficial for treating cognitive impairment and neuroinflammation related to Alzheimer’s disease.