Licorice has demulcent properties that soothe inflammation & irritation of the mucous membranes of the throat, bronchi and lungs, as well as the urinary & gastro-intestinal tracts. It’s anti-inflammatory properties stimulate the regeneration of the lining of the gastric mucosa, making it a useful treatment of gastric, peptic and duodenal ulcers. Licorice loosens phlegm and relieves bronchitis, coughs & asthma. Licorice improves liver function and is supportive or restorative to the adrenals. It is a sweet, agreeable taste that can mask many other bitter herbs and make them more palatable. Liorice is also considered to have a major synergistic effect, being used to bind together the activity of different herbs in a formula. Excessive, long-continued doses can cause potassium loss & sodium retention (which can produce water retention, headaches & high blood pressure). Therefore, excessive or frequent doses are contraindicated in high blood pressure and congestive heart disease. If licorice is discontinued, these effects usually disappear rapidly.

Cautions/Contraindications
• Consult a health care provider if you have diabetes or hypokalemia
• Consult a health care provided if you are taking any hormonal therapies, diuretics, potassium depleting agents, MAO inhibitors
• Do not use if pregnant or breast feeding
• Do not use if you have impaired kidney or liver functions, high blood pressure, or heart disease
• Do not use if you are a male with decreased libido

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Cech R. Middle Earth Cultivation of Medicinals from the English Tradition 1995 Horizon Herbs Publication. Williams OR

Mills S. The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. Arkana Penguin Books 1991

Monograph – Licorice. Natural Health Products Directorate. Ottawa, ON 2004

Herbal Remedies & Homeopathy. Geddes & Grosset, David Dale House, New Lanark, Scotland. 2002

Monograph – Licorice. Natural Health Products Directorate. Ottawa ON 2004