Botanical Overview
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as Liquorice, Licorice, or Sweet root, is a member of the Fabaceae family. The medicinal parts used are primarily the root and rhizome. Native to the Mediterranean, Western and Central Asia, and parts of Europe, this plant has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine.
Energetics
It has a cooling temperature and moistening moisture quality, with bitter and sweet tastes. Directionally, it is considered descending and outward. It is tonically relaxing and supports the qi and fluids in the body.
Primary Actions
- Demulcent
- Anti-inflammatory
- Expectorant
- Adrenal support
- Spasmolytic
- Antiviral
Indications
Western
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Gastritis
- Ulcers
- Adrenal fatigue
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Inflammatory respiratory conditions
- Gastric mucosal inflammation and ulceration
- Adrenal insufficiency
- Chronic stress-related disorders
TCM
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Weak digestion
- Fatigue
Syndromes
- Qi deficiency
- Yin deficiency with dryness
- Lung Qi deficiency
Ayurveda
- Cough
- Fever
- Gastric ulcers
- Throat irritation
Syndromes
- Vata disorders
- Pitta disorders
- Respiratory and digestive complaints
Unani
- Chronic cough
- Asthma
- Stomach pain
Syndromes
- Sutur-e-Rahem (ulcers)
- Za‘f-e-meda (weak digestion)
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemical constituents include glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, saponins, coumarins, and polysaccharides which contribute to its demulcent, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and adrenal-supportive properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction 2-8 g daily
- Extract standardized to 20% glycyrrhizin 100-400 mg daily
- Tincture (1:5) 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
- Powder 1-3 g 1-2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use caution due to potential for causing hypertension, hypokalemia, and edema. Contraindicated in pregnancy, hypertension, heart failure, and renal impairment. May interact with diuretics, antihypertensives, corticosteroids, and digitalis. Long-term or high-dose use requires medical supervision.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary ruler: Moon
Elemental ruler: Water
Selected References
- EMA HMPC Assessment Report on Glycyrrhiza glabra L., radix
- Ken Fern, Plants For A Future: Glycyrrhiza glabra
- M. Hoffmann, Herbal Medicine, 4th Edition
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India
- Maud Grieve, A Modern Herbal
- Andrew Chevallier, The Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine
- Judith Berger, Herbal Astrology