Licorice

Licorice

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root is the medicinally used part of the licorice plant.  Most licorice is produced in Africa, Asia, and Turkey.  Organic Licorice root can be bought from Zerbos Health Food Market on Plymouth Road, Livonia, Michigan. The product selection is the best in the Detroit metropolitan area.  The market is 11,250 square feet with a set of windows running above the shelves to bring in natural light. Licorice has been used in ancient Egypt, China, and Greece, primarily for gastritis (inflammation of the stomach) and ailments of the upper respiratory tract. Ancient Egyptians prepared a licorice drink for the pharaohs. Licorice was stored in King Tut’s tomb (Tutankhamen).  Its use became widespread in Asia and Europe for numerous indications.  The root has many uses.

Licorice fights inflammation and infection–viral, bacterial, and parasitic. The herb is beneficial for allergies, asthma, chronic fatigue, estrogen imbalance, female reproduction, infertility, antibiotic, depression, emphysema, fever, and upper respiratory infections.  Licorice has been known to stimulate natural defense mechanisms that prevent the occurrence of ulcers.  Licorice root is also known as the “Great Detoxifier,” “a longevity herb, and has vitality qualities. It is used in herbal recipes to harmonize the other ingredients used in the formula. Licorice can be added in the diet of anyone who is predisposed to cancer. The herb is a powerful immune booster.

Natural Beauty: Licorice is used for general skin problems and known to promote healing as it sooths dry skin.  Licorice root is also another botanical that prevents hair loss and damage to hair.  It is excellent in keeping the scalp hydrated. This recipe uses a trio of herbs that can help treat eczema, dermatitis, and even psoriasis.

 Healthy Skin Tonic

4 tbs. of chamomile 1 tbs. rosemary
1 tbs. licorice 3 cups of water

In a medium saucepan, combine chamomile, licorice, and rosemary. Add the water and simmer for at least 10 minutes. Strain and allow to cool. Drink one cup at a time, flavored with lemon.

References

Africa, Llaila O. (2011).  African holistic health

Cooksley, Valerie Gennari. (2011).  Aromatherapy: a lifetime guide to healing with essential oils

Duke, James A., Ph.D. & Castleman, Michael. (2011).  Anti-Aging prescriptions

 Natural Standard. (2011). The authority on integrative medicine. Retrieved July 23, 2011, from www.naturalstandard.com

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