Licorice benefits are known to Indians since thousands of years.It is one of the most commonly used Ayurvedic herbs. In almost every Indian household, you might find this herb chewed, whenever someone’s voice has gone down.
Licorice root contains many anti-depressant compound.
Licorice is useful for many ailments including asthma, athlete’s foot, baldness, body odor, bursitis, canker sores, chronic fatigue, depression, colds and flu, coughs, dandruff, emphysema, gingivitis and tooth decay, gout, heartburn, HIV, viral infections, fungal infections, ulcers, liver problems, Lyme disease, menopause, psoriasis, shingles, sore throat, tendinitis, tuberculosis, ulcers, yeast infections, prostate enlargement and arthritis.
It seems to prevent the breakdown of adrenal hormones such as cortisol (the body’s primary stress-fighting adrenal hormone).
It can lower stomach acid levels, relieve heartburn and indigestion and acts as a mild laxative It can also be used for irritation, inflammation and spasm in the digestive tract.
Through its beneficial action on the liver, it increases bile flow and lowers cholesterol levels.
It has an aspirin-like action and is helpful in relieving fevers and soothing pain such as headaches.
Its anti-allergenic effect is very useful for hay fever, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and bronchial asthma.
Licorice has the ability to improve resistance to stress. It should be thought of during times of both physical and emotional stress.
Licorice also helps to relax bronchial spasms. The herb also soothes soreness in the throat and fights viruses that cause respiratory illnesses and an overproduction of mucus.
Research indicates that modest doses of licorice (100 mg a day) have this effect.
CATHERINE SHALINI RAJA
M.P.T.,MIAP.,PGDYN
CARDIO RESPIRATORY PHYSICAL THERAPIST
FITNESS & SPORTS REHABILITATION SPECIALIST.