the root is 50 times sweeter than sugar, and used as a sweetener.

contains over 300 chemical compounds and flavonoids.

the root is mainly used, medicinally.

can treat insomnia, malaria, gastrointestinal problems, and infections.

great for weight loss and long term obesity prevention.

will lower your aldosterone levels.

Glycyrrhizin, the most active chemical compound found in licorice, has been proven to reduce body fat, heal stomach ulcers, and fight infections.

after two months of eating licorice (american spelling) root everyday, without changing your caloric intake, your body fat mass will decrease.

glycyrrhizin also causes apoptosis (cell death) of stomach cancer, liver cancer and leukemia cells.

research has shown that licorice root provided antibacterial and antiviral benefits against several microbes, including staphylococcus, streptococcus, and candida albicans.

as well as viruses like herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), hepatitis c (liver virus), human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) & HIV.

kills bacteria in the mouth that cause tooth decay/cavities.

soothes sore throat. gargle licorice root extract or tea, before surgery to prevent sore throat.

also can help eczema even mixed with aloe vera.

reduces potassium levels. low potassium levels can cause irregular heartbeat. good for if you need your potassium lowered.

can also increase blood pressure, but so does pizza.

might cause fetal developmental problems if eaten in high amounts. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid licorice root.

Avoid licorice root if you take diuretics, because it may increase the amount of potassium excreted by the body. Licorice root can also interfere with aldactone, a blood pressure medication.

You should also avoid licorice root if you’re taking warfarin or other blood thinners. Licorice may lower the level of Warfarin in your body.

Differences between some licorice species:

Glycyrrhiza glabra (European/Spanish licorice) and Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Chinese licorice) differ primarily in geographical origin, chemical profiles, and active compound concentration, with G. uralensis generally having higher flavonoid content, while G. glabra is often characterized by higher glabridin and specific saponin levels.
Both are used in traditional medicine but possess distinct chemical profiles.
Glycyrrhiza uralensis is a staple in Chinese medicine, frequently used for detoxification and reinforcing spleen qi.
Glycyrrhiza glabra (European/Mediterranean Licorice): Commonly used in Western herbalism and, in its DGL form (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice), is ideal for treating ulcers and heartburn without the side effects of glycyrrhizin.
G. uralensis contains high levels of glycyrrhizin, which can cause increased blood pressure and lower potassium levels if taken in large quantities or over long periods. If you have kidney failure and want to lower your potassium levels naturally, licorice is an effective choice, and it truly works. Try it and you'll see results in your next blood test.
Glycyrrhiza glabra (Common/Spanish Licorice) and Glycyrrhiza echinata (Russian Licorice) are both used for their sweet roots but differ significantly in chemical composition and morphology. G. glabra is the primary medicinal source containing higher glycyrrhizin, while G. echinata boasts a higher foaming capacity and a distinct polysaccharide profile (containing galacturonic acid).