Herbal Extracts
Licorice Root for Stomach Ailments
Licorice root is commonly used as a flavoring agent in candy (some licorice candy is also flavored with anise), cough drops, syrups, tonics and laxatives. Licorice flavors many beers, desserts, gelatins, puddings and also some types of meat products. The sweet licorice root can be chewed as a special treat.
Licorice root is suggested in many ailments including Arthritis, Asthma, Bladder, Constipation, Depression, Fatigue, Fever, Intestinal Inflammation, Kidney Problems, Liver Problems, Sore Throat and Ulcers.
Chewing licorice root sticks is quite an effective treatment for stomach ailments, because it exerts a soothing action on the muscosal surfaces of the Gastro-Intestinal tract, and it is commonly used to help these tissues heal. The derivatives of licorice root, glycryuhetinic acid (GLA), deglycrihyinated licorice (DGL), and carbenoxolene sodium (CS) have all been proven to be among the best anti-ulcer medications available. Whole licorice root appears to have the ability to inhibit gastric acid secretion with the advantage of being devoid of other adverse anti-cholinergic properties.
Licorice root also helps prevent and heal skin problems. The conditions that increase the occurrence of acne-like symptoms during certain stages of the menstrual cycle may be affected by the consumption of licorice root sticks.
Licorice root is included in most chinese herbal medicines to complement other herbs and to promote vitality. Licorice root is an excellent source of magnesium, silicon and thiamine.
Licorice Root for Stomach Ailments Questions
Q. How many sticks are included in 1/2 LB.? How many in 1 LB.?
Asked by Jane Bator on May 09, 2005.A. Though licorice sticks come in various size, you can expect to receive between 85 - 120 sticks in 1lbs package.
Q. I was thinking of buying some licorice root sticks. How do you use them, like a candy or like an herb? Do you know if it's good for diabetics? Thanks
Asked by Sherilynn on July 01, 2005.A. Licorice root contains a compound that is about 50 times sweeter than sugar. Licorice root is commonly used to treat a variety of illnesses ranging from the common cold to liver disease. This herb has long been valued as a demulcent (soothing, coating agent) and continues to be used by professional herbalists today to relieve respiratory ailments (such as allergies, bronchitis, colds, sore throats, and tuberculosis), stomach problems (including, possibly, heartburn from reflux or some other cause and gastritis), inflammatory disorders, skin diseases, and liver problems.
Researchers found that a Licorice compound, known as carbenoxolone, appears to inhibit an enzyme in the brain that is involved in making stress-related hormones, which have been associated with age-related mental decline. The study, published in the online early edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, showed daily supplementation with the compound improved verbal fluency in healthy elderly men and improved verbal memory in older adults with diabetes.
Other previous studies have suggested that the licorice root compound might increase insulin sensitivity and improve diabetes, but glucose control levels remained unchanged during the study in this group.
Q. I just went through a procedure to check my uper and lower gi tract and was diagnosed as having gastritis. I am anemic and my doctor beleaves I am losing blood due to this condition. I am 81 yrs old. Will licorisce help me? PS. I have always love the flavor of licorice.
Asked by Vincent Genco on September 28, 2005.A. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) herb is a demulcent (soothing, coating agent) that has long been valued for its use in food and medicinal remedies, including treatments for stomach ailments. Licorice root extracts, known as deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), still have the healing properties of licorice without the harmful effects (like high blood pressure). DGL may be better for stomach or duodenal ulcers and may even be as effective as some prescription drugs for stomach ulcers.
In addition, eating a diet high in fiber may not only cut your risk of developing ulcers in half, but fiber-rich foods may also speed the healing of ulcers. Fruits and vegetables are particularly protective sources of fiber and seem to reduce the amount of inflammation in the lining of the stomach; fruit juice appears to have this benefit as well.
Q. I am interested in purchasing some licorice roots or tablets. Which would you recommend? My wife suffers from irritable bowel syndrome and I believe my bladder and liver need some attention too. Do your prices include shipping? I live in Japan. Thank you for your time.
Asked by Matt Lindsay on February 05, 2006.Q. How often should I eat the liquorice sticks and would it help to soothe my irritable bowel symptoms?
Asked by Alex on March 12, 2006.
