Like many natural remedies, licorice has a long history of boosting health. The name refers to the root of the plant known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, and while some consider it a weed it’s actually a highly useful botanical. In ancient Egypt it was drunk in tea form and a cure-all remedy – some was even found in King Tutankhamun’s tomb. Later it was imported to China and it still remains an important part of Chinese medicinal tradition.
One of the popular uses for licorice is to soothe gastrointestinal conditions. Extract from licorice root can help speed up how quickly the stomach lining is repaired and help maintain a healthy balance. This action is thanks to the glycyrrhizic acid, which is both anti-inflammatory and immune boosting. It’s an excellent remedy for conditions like gastritis, heartburn and stomach ulcers.
Another action of the licorice root is that it stimulates the adrenal glands, which in turns helps to deliver a healthy level of cortisol – the stress hormone – to the body. People who are under a lot of pressure tend to produce high levels of adrenaline and cortisol in response to the stress and over time this leads to a feeling of being burnt out and exhausted. But supplementing with licorice can help support the adrenal glands by regulating cortisol production.
Licorice may be a tasty treat but it’s also beneficial to the skin when used externally. Blending licorice root into topical lotions and creams means its antioxidant powers can help calm and sooth certain inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema, sunburn and redness. It is also believed to help relieve itching to the skin and swelling.
Licorice was used many years ago in gin production. It has a flavour very similar to anise or fennel but is sweeter and so was traditionally used as a sweetening agent. Today gin producers still turn to this root for both its distinctive colour and to add sweetness. Even once distilled the flavour remains characteristically woody, and it also adds an oily feel to the drink.
If you’re in the market for significant quantities of licorice Joseph Flach & Sons has many different forms so we can best meet your needs. We work across the globe and our customers operate in many different markets – from gin production and animal feed to natural remedies and culinary spices.
Please note that many botanicals come in different forms and grades which may determine or improve their suitability for certain applications. At Joseph Flach & Sons we carry a large range of products in various forms and grades. Please do check with our experts if you require a specific grade or form and they will be delighted to help you.
All of our content is researched and reviewed by our experts. While we, Joseph Flach & Sons Ltd, do not make use of our products for health, beauty or other recreations such as brewing or distilling; our clients do. Please ensure that any products you buy from us are suitable and safe to use in your stock. We do not accept liability around the suitability of our products in any end-use.
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