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Is Liquorice Good For You?: 9 Reasons Why You Might Try It!

liquorice wheels for an article asking is liquorice good for you?

Do you love liquorice? Are you curious about whether it has any health benefits? Or maybe you want to try something new?

Liquorice is delicious and fun to eat, but do you know it’s good for you? This article will go over nine reasons why liquorice might be good for you.

I’ll also share with you my personal experience with liquorice, including how I tried it and what happened after I ate it. And finally, I’ll tell you why I believe I can answer the question, is liquorice good for you.

What is liquorice?

Like most people, I always thought of liquorice as the dipping part of a Sherbet Fountain. But, to be honest, I don’t know if I ever gave the subject more consideration until I decided to start a liquorice business in 1994.  

Liquorice is the common name for a sweet/bitter flavouring agent derived from the root of the liquorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra). It’s used in foods, beverages, medicines, and cosmetics. In addition, liquorice has been used to treat coughs since ancient times.

The taste of liquorice comes from glycyrrhizin, an active ingredient that gives liquorice its bitter flavour. Glycyrrhizin is extracted from the roots of the liquorice plant and is considered by many to have anti-inflammatory properties.

How does liquorice work on your body? 

Liquorice has long been used as a natural remedy for many ailments, including coughs and colds. It’s also believed to boost energy levels and aid digestion. However, while it’s true that liquorice root contains natural sweeteners, it doesn’t have enough to give you a jolt of energy like sugar. Instead, it helps stimulate the digestive system and relieve gas.

Glycyrrhizin also stimulates the production of saliva, which aids in digestion. In addition, it increases the flow of mucus from the stomach and intestines. This means that it can help to clear up congestion and ease indigestion.

All types of liquorice contain flavonoids and antioxidants that protect cells from damage. Flavonoids are also found in many fruits and vegetables, including apples, pears, onions, and lemons. (source)

While it’s true that liquorice production varies and, therefore, how much active glycyrrhizin manufacturers use, in most cases, it’s unlikely that you’d experience any side effects unless from consuming too much. The recommended daily intake is just 100mg per day. That’s equivalent to 60-70g of liquorice. 

The health benefits of liquorice

Liquorice is a root of the liquorice plant and grows underground in sandy, loamy soil and has been used medicinally since ancient times. It was once believed that eating liquorice would cure asthma, stomach ulcers, and other ailments. Today, we know that liquorice contains flavonoids, antioxidants, and minerals that help reduce inflammation and protect our bodies from free radicals.

But did you know that liquorice is also good for your respiratory conditions? Studies show that liquorice can also help treat respiratory problems such as bronchitis and coughs. In addition, the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation in the lungs and airways, making it easier to breathe. If you suffer from respiratory problems, consider taking a liquorice root supplement or using a liquorice tincture.

Liquorice Sweets

Liquorice confectionery is an age-old sweet treat that has become increasingly popular over the years. It’s available in many forms, including extruded and filled sticks, moulded Dutch shapes, gummies, mints, and lollipops. 

We know many household names like Bassetts Liquorice Allsorts, Panda, RJs, and our own Saint Valentines Liquorice Company. All liquorice confectionery is made with liquorice extract, which is made by extracting the active ingredients from liquorice roots. Liquorice extract can be added directly to food products or mixed with water to create a syrup. In addition, the extract is commonly found in cough drops, throat lozenges, and other oral medications.

In the last 28 years of running my own liquorice business, liquorice root has become the go-to remedy if anyone in our family gets a cold, sore throat or cough. We have found that it gives us great relief and comfort from years of using it. Personally I know its good for you.

While liquorice is delicious, it can be bad for your teeth with the addition of sugar if consumed too frequently.

It’s best to limit yourself to just one piece of liquorice per day and avoid consuming it during meals. Also, make sure to brush your teeth after eating liquorice.

How is liquorice root used?

Liquorice root is a natural sweetener that has been used for centuries. It’s commonly found in candy, gum, and other sweets. While liquorice root tastes sweet, it doesn’t contain sugars. As a result, it actually helps to regulate blood sugar levels.

Liquorice has long been used as a natural remedy for colds and flu. It contains compounds called glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic acid, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds are thought to work by inhibiting certain enzymes that cause inflammation.

One study showed that liquorice root extract could help prevent diabetes. Liquorice root is also believed to help relieve symptoms of indigestion, heartburn, and stomach ulcers.

There are many ways to consume liquorice root. One popular method is to chew on pieces of dried root. The best part about this method is that you can enjoy the benefits without having to worry about consuming too much sugar.

While liquorice root is safe to eat, it does contain glycyrrhizin, which can cause problems if consumed in large quantities. Recent studies suggest that glycyrrhizin, the active compound in liquorice roots, can lower blood sugar levels, acting as an anti-diabetic substance. (source)

In addition to being delicious, liquorice root is also inexpensive. 

Liquorice roots and powder for an article asking is liquorice good for you?

Potential reasons why liquorice is good for you.

1. Reduce inflammation 

Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, and it’s usually necessary to fight off harmful bacteria or viruses. However, chronic inflammation can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and cancer. Fortunately, there are ways to naturally reduce it, including eating foods rich in anti-inflammatory nutrients.

One of these nutrients is liquorice, which contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that reduces inflammation. Liquorice has been used for centuries to treat conditions ranging from colds to arthritis, and recent research suggests that it could be beneficial for other inflammatory diseases.

2. Relieve Respiratory Infections

Liquorice has long been used as a natural remedy for colds and other respiratory ailments. It contains compounds called glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic acid, both of which have antihistamine properties. These two ingredients work together to relieve symptoms associated with allergies and asthma.

It’s believed that liquorice helps thin mucus, making it easier to expel from the body. In addition, it reduces inflammation and speeds healing. The best part is that it doesn’t contain any harmful side effects. So, if you’re suffering from a sore throat, try drinking a cup of hot water mixed with one teaspoon of liquorice root powder. You can also add honey to sweeten the drink.

3. Inhibit Bacteria Growth 

Liquorice has long been used as a natural remedy for colds and flu. It’s thought that the liquorice root contains compounds that inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Studies suggest that liquorice could potentially be effective against antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria.

Additionally, liquorice root has been shown to help fight off bacteria and viruses. Studies have found that it can inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumonia, Haemophilus influenza, and Moraxella catarrhalis. Liquorice root also helps kill the influenza virus. (source)

While these studies were conducted in vitro (i.e., in test tubes), they still provide valuable insight into the potential health benefits of liquorice. The World Health Organization recommends that people eat one gram of liquorice per day to protect against common colds.

However, while liquorice has many beneficial effects, excessive consumption can be harmful due to the glycyrrhizin content, which can change your potassium and sodium levels, which help regulate body fluid.

4. May aid skin conditions

Liquorice has long been used to treat various health issues, including digestive problems, colds, and even acne. In addition, it’s thought that liquorice helps stimulate digestion, cleanse the body, and boost energy levels.

It’s also believed that liquorice can help to alleviate symptoms associated with certain skin conditions. For example, it’s said to help clear up eczema, psoriasis, and other rashes. In addition, it’s claimed to relieve dryness and irritation caused by rosacea.

(In a 2-week study of 60 adults, applying a topical gel containing liquorice root extract significantly improved eczema) Source: (healthline.com)

5. It may reduce acid reflux and indigestion.

Acid reflux and indigestion are two common problems that many people face. While these conditions aren’t life-threatening, they can still affect your quality of life if left untreated. Fortunately, there are ways to treat both issues naturally without resorting to medication.

One of the best natural remedies for acid reflux and indigestion is liquorice root. Liquorice root has long been used as a digestive aid, and studies suggest that it can actually help prevent heartburn and other stomach ailments. In addition, research shows that liquorice root can help relieve acid reflux and indigestion symptoms.

6. It may help treat peptic ulcers.

Liquorice root contains glycyrrhizin (GLY), a compound found in liquorice roots that helps heal stomach ulcers. In fact, liquorice root extract was used to treat peptic ulcers until the 1950s, when pharmaceutical companies discovered that GLY had anti-inflammatory properties and started selling it as an over-the-counter drug. Glycyrrhizin (GLY) reduces stomach acidity. This helps prevent peptic ulcers. However, liquorice root may cause diarrhoea when taken in large amounts.

The amount of GLY in liquorice root varies depending on the variety. Some varieties contain more than others. Therefore, it’s essential to buy only liquorice root that lists glycyrrhizic acid content on the label.

Try liquorice root instead if you’re looking for a natural alternative to antacids.

While more research is needed in humans, a 2-week study in 120 adults showed that consuming liquorice extract in addition to a standard treatment significantly reduced the presence of H. pylori

Source: (healthline.com)

7. It helps the digestive system.

Liquorice contains glycyrrhizin (GLY), which helps the digestive system. GLY is a natural compound found in liquorice root. GLY is the primary active ingredient in liquorice root.

Glycyrrhizin can stimulate the secretion of gastric juices and helps break down protein. This makes liquorice an excellent food for those who suffer from stomach ailments, including ulcers and indigestion.

8. May ease upper respiratory conditions.

Liquorice root is a natural remedy for colds, coughs, sore throats, and congestion. In addition, liquorice root was used in ancient times to cure asthma. Today, scientists have confirmed that liquorice root contains glycyrrhizin and liquiritigenin compounds, which help reduce lung inflammation.

The active ingredient in liquorice root is glycyrrhizic acid, which helps loosen mucus and phlegm in the lungs. Liquorice root also contains flavonoids and antioxidants that protect cells from damage. And because liquorice root is sweet, it doesn’t cause dry mouth.

If you’re looking for a natural remedy for cold symptoms, try liquorice root.

9. Menopause and Menstrual Symptoms

If you’re a woman over 40 years old, you’ve experienced menopause. And if you’re experiencing hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, or other symptoms associated with menopause, you may be interested in learning whether liquorice is good for you.

Liquorice is a natural remedy for many menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes. In fact, in a study by Shahid Beheshti Medical University in 2010. Ninety menopausal women complaining of hot flash were selected by reviewing their records in healthcare centres and randomly divided into two liquorices (3 capsules daily containing 330 mg liquorice abstract) and placebo (3 capsules daily containing 330 mg starch) groups over the eight weeks of intervention and four weeks of follow-up. This study suggests that liquorice might help reduce hot flashes. Furthermore, liquorice roots decreased the frequency and severity of hot flashes.

Menopausal women will possibly widely accept the administration of this harmless, inexpensive herb. However, the appropriate and continuous physical activities and consumption of dairy products are recommended for relieving this complication.

So, it’s clear liquorice is effective at treating menopausal symptoms. (source)

Possible Side Effects

Liquorice is sweet and delicious, but it may not suit you.

Liquorice contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that can cause liver damage. Glycyrrhizin is found naturally in liquorice root, but it becomes concentrated in liquorice candy when processed.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), severe liver problems associated with liquorice consumption have been reported. Therefore, the FDA recommends that anyone who wants to avoid these side effects limit their liquorice intake to no more than two grams per day.

Can overeating black liquorice be bad for you? 

The NHS has a warning on its website, particularly if you’re over forty and have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or both.

Eating more than 57g (2 ounces) of black liquorice a day for at least two weeks could lead to serious health problems, such as increased blood pressure and an irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia).

For most people, liquorice found in foods is safe to eat and safe when consumed in large amounts in medicines for short periods.

Source: (nhs.uk)

Conclusion 

In conclusion, liquorice is a sweet treat that has been around since ancient times. It was used as a medicine during the Middle Ages because it was believed to help cure coughs and colds. Today, it’s still used as a natural remedy for sore throats and upset stomachs. However, it’s also become a favourite among candy lovers everywhere.

While it’s true that liquorice contains glycyrrhizin, for most people, these substances aren’t harmful in small amounts. Instead, they actually help to stimulate digestion and relieve stomach pain. So, if you want to add some flavour to your diet without worrying about adverse side effects, liquorice is worth trying!

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