Botanical Overview
Glycyrrhiza uralensis, commonly known as Chinese licorice or Gan Cao, belongs to the Fabaceae family. The medicinal parts used are primarily the root and rhizome. Native to East Asia, including China and Mongolia, it is widely used in traditional and modern herbal medicine.
Energetics
This herb is considered neutral in temperature and moistening in nature. It has a sweet and bitter taste and exhibits both ascending and descending directionality. Glycyrrhiza uralensis is tonifying for the body, particularly influencing the qi, blood, and bodily fluids.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Adaptogen
- Demulcent
- Expectorant
- Spasmolytic
- Antiviral
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Gastric ulcers
- Fatigue
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Adrenal insufficiency
- Gastritis
- Bronchitis
- Immune deficiency
TCM
- Dry cough
- Throat irritation
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Poor digestion
Syndromes
- Qi deficiency
- Blood deficiency
- Spleen and Lung Qi deficiency
- Yin deficiency with heat
Ayurveda
Not traditionally used or specified.
Unani
Not traditionally used or specified.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Contains glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, coumarins, polysaccharides, chalcones, and saponins, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and demulcent activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of 3-10 g dried root daily
- Tincture 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
- Powder 1-3 g 1-2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use caution in individuals with hypertension or hypokalemia due to potential mineralocorticoid effects. Avoid use during pregnancy and lactation. May interact with corticosteroids, diuretics, and antihypertensive medications. Prolonged or high-dose use may cause edema, hypertension, and electrolyte imbalance.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Pharmacological and clinical effects of Glycyrrhiza root (Phytotherapy Research, 2019)
- World Health Organization Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants (WHO, 2007)
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica (Bensky, Clavey, Stöger, 2004)