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Other names:
Glycyrrhiza glabra
What it is supposed to do:
 | Have anti-inflammatory, cough suppressant, antiviral, estrogen-like and
aldosterone-like activity. |
Used for treatment of ulcers, cold symptoms, chronic fatigue syndrome,
stress, eczema, psoriasis, herpes lesions and conditions such as rheumatoid
arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosis.
| There are two types of licorice; standard licorice and deglycyrrhizinated
licorice (DGL). Standard licorice is best for respiratory infections,
chronic fatigue, or topical for skin conditions. DGL is used for
ulcers. |
How it is supposed to work:
| Stops the production of toxic free radicals thereby inhibiting the release
of hormones that stimulate inflammation and swelling of the bronchial
passages. |
| Prevents the cell from releasing virus into the bloodstream. |
| Encourages the multiplication of immune cells that engulf and destroy
infectious bacteria. |
| Increases the secretion of mucus in the windpipe and the digestive system.
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Toxic effects:
| Sodium and fluid retention, high blood pressure and potassium loss |
| Visual disturbances due to spasm of the blood vessels supplying the eyes
(normal vision returns after several days) |
| Erectile dysfunction in men (licorice can reduce testosterone levels) |
| It potentiates estrogen effects and should not be used in women with
fibrocystic breast disease, breast or uterine cancer. |
Does it work?
Clinical studies have shown that the compounds in licorice increase the half
life of cortisol. With a licorice supplement, prednisone doses can be
lowered in asthmatics and lupus patients.
Two controlled studies suggest that regular use of DGL combined with antacids
can heal ulcers as effectively as ranitidine (Zantac)
References:
- Baschetti R. "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Neurally Mediated
Hypotension", JAMA 275 (1996), 359.
- Chen MF, Shimada F, Kato H, et al. "Effect of Glycyrrhizin on
Pharmacokinetics of Prednisone Fellowing Low Dosage of Prednisone
Hemisuccinate", Endocrinologica Japonica 37 (3) June 1990: 331-341.
- Kassir ZA. "Endoscopic Controlled Trial of Four Drug Regimens in the
Treatment of Chronic Duodenal Ulceration", Irish Medical Journal 78
(1985): 153-156.
- Nagai T and Yamada H. "In Vivo Anti-Influenza Virus Activity of Kampo
(Japanese Herbal) Medicine ‘Shoseiryu-to’ and its Mode of Action",
International Journal of Immunopharmacology 16(8( August, 1994: 605-613.
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