Gaia Herbs Licorice Root
Perhaps one of the most overlooked herbal supplements today is licorice root. No, we’re not talking about Twizzlers. Licorice is actually a plant that grows wild in part of Europe and Asia, growing as tall as seven feet high. Its roots – long, round pieces of rubbery wood – are the most desirable part of the plant, lending its medicinal properties and benefits to things like supplements, teas, and black licorice candies.
Here is a list of just some of the known benefits of licorice root:
- Depression – Research suggests that Glycyrrhizic acid, found in licorice root, stimulates the function of the adrenal glands, which helps calm nervousness and depression.
- High Cholesterol – Some studies indicate that licorice root may enhance the body’s flow of bile, which can help eliminate excessive cholesterol.
- Skin Problems – Licorice root, which contains natural demulcent and anti-inflammatory properties, has been mixed into salves to treat skin problems like eczema, skin rashes, and psoriasis.
- Tooth Decay and Gum Disease – This is a newfound benefit! A recent study in The Journal of Natural Products reports that compounds found in dried licorice root can help prevent and treat tooth decay and gum disease.
Don’t think you can just pop a couple licorice candies and reap the wide-ranging benefits. Most “black licorice” candy in the U.S. today uses anise oil to create a licorice flavor. Instead, check out some supplements and teas that contain actual licorice root. OVitaminPro.com has quite a large selection of licorice root supplements, so take a look at what we have to offer!
