*Before reading this article please be aware that Chinese Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza Uralensis) not American Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is being examined*

 

Licorice Root History

Licorice Root has long been used in Chinese Traditional Medicine as a healer in numerous aliments.  It has an unique ability to detox and remove toxins from  the body, as well as support numerous bodily functions.  Chinese Medicine typically used this herb in conjunction with other Chinese herbs and often included it as the “base” of many of the formulas in their medicine system.  Licorice Root is particular good at supporting the adrenal glands and have seen first hand what this herb can do for an individual who has overworked their body into the ground.  Its MY herb of choice when addressing adrenal fatigue.

Some common signs of adrenal fatigue are:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Chronic fatigue
• An inability to handle stress
• Severe irritability
• Lack of appetite
• Loss of desire or drive
• Constipation

In my opinion, Licorice Root should be taken by anyone experiencing any of these problems. Also, in the future, I plan to do an extensive write up on the adrenal glands and how to support them naturally and keep them healthy so that they continue to produce the necessary hormones that are essential for well being. However, lets take a deeper look into this powerful herb and its mechanism of action on the body.

Cortisol

As mentioned before, licorice root is powerful adaptogenic and supports the adrenal glands extremely well.  The theory is that licorice slows the breakdown of Cortisol which in return increase energy and mood.  Its important to remember that Cortisol is a healthy steroid hormone and should not be attempted to be blocked.  Blocking Cortisol will lead to a whole host of problems.  Instead, the hormone Cortisol should be attempted to be regulated.

Healthy individuals will produce high Cortisol levels in the morning which eventually decrease throughout the day and into night.  Often times, when a person experiences nervousness at night or insomnia it is because their Cortisol levels are too high.  Licorice Root helps correct this problem by slowing the breakdown of Cortisol which corrects the Cortisol cycle; High in the morning – Low in the Evening. For this reason, licorice root is best taken in the morning when first starting the herb and then adjusting to how you feel.

Personally, I take Licorice root in the morning and in the evening with no problem.  Its important however that you are using Chinese Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza Uralensis) and not American Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra).  Chinese Licorice Root has a much more calming effect on the body allowing for better sleep, where as American Licorice Root is extremely stimulating.

DHEA

Experts are just beginning to realize the importance of the powerful steroid hormone DHEA. In fact, its one of the most reliable bio-markers of aging.  This hormone is secreted by the adrenal glands, testes and ovaries and the brain.  It is in fact the building block from which estrogen and testosterone and produced. Research has shown the following on this powerful steroid hormone:

1. Stimulates killer cell activity
2. Boost immunity
3. Hormone regulator (thyroid and pituitary gland)
4. Improves Libido
5. Powerful antioxidant
6. Stimulates the production of HGH (human growth hormone)

Licorice is a natural source of DHEA and contains phytoestrogens that reduce male prostate enlargement due to excess estrogen.  It also blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT which in return helps combat hair loss.  As a male, you should always look to maximize testosterone while keeping DHT levels low.  Licorice also helps stimulate the steroid hormone aldosterone which is essential for proper adrenal function

Immune Function

Licorice contains the beneficial Salicylic Acid( a tphenolic acid and a beta hydroxy acid). Salicylic Acid is pretty much aspirin.  Salicylic Acid found in Licorice Root is in natural form, and easily recognized by the body unlike aspirin.  That being said, the same aliments that aspirin would be used for can be replaced with Licorice Root. Licorice also acts as an antiseptic, anti-tumor, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-allergy, anti-inflammatory and an adaptogen. Its also great for treating lung/respiratory conditions and excellent for coughs/sore throat.  It also contains all the B vitamins (except B12) which are essential for good health. 

Detoxification

Licorice Root Contains over 400 phytochemicals; all of which have healing qualities.  These phytochemicals help the body detox naturally while also supporting the body during the process.  Licorice also increases bile flow from the liver.  Its extremely important to keep the liver healthy in order to maintain and achieve optimal health.  It also helps regulate the intestinal flora which is also mandatory for good health.

Recommendations

1. Always choose Chinese Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza Uralensis)
2. Avoid the standardized form which can dangerously raise blood pressure
3. Take in the morning and then adjust based on how you feel
4. ALWAYS use the WHOLE ROOT (see #2)

• Try mixing Nettle leaf, Ashwagandha, Licorice Root and Schisandra Berry together for powerful adrenal support.

Eclectic Institute Nettle Leaf Freeze-Dried Eclectic Institute 90 VCaps

Banyan Botanicals Ashwagandha Powder

Licorice Root Powder / Gan Cao / Glycyrrhiza Uralensis, 1.1lb or 500g Bulk Herb Powder

Organic Schizandra Berry

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