Licorice
GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA
Licorice is an herb that grows in parts of Europe and Asia with a long history of use as a food, medicine, and flavoring agent. Its distinctive sweet taste and potential health benefits have made it a popular choice for centuries. Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which can cause side effects when eaten in large amounts. The chemicals in licorice are thought to decrease swelling, decrease cough, and increase the chemicals in our body that heal ulcers.
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| Kingdom: | Plantae | ||
| Clade: | Tracheophytes | ||
| Clade: | Angiosperms | ||
| Clade: | Eudicots | ||
| Clade: | Rosids | ||
| Order: | Fabales | ||
| Family: | Fabaceae | ||
| Subfamily: | Faboideae | ||
| Clade: | Inverted repeat-lacking clade | ||
| Genus: | Glycyrrhiza | ||
| Species: | G. glabra | ||
| Binomial name | |||
| Glycyrrhiza glabra | |||
| Synonyms | |||
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Glycyrrhiza brachycarpa (Boiss.) |
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| Glycyrrhiza glandulifera Waldst. & Kit.) | |||
| Glycyrrhiza hirsuta (Pall.) | |||
| Glycyrrhiza pallida (Boiss.) | |||
| Glycyrrhiza violacea (Boiss.) | |||
Licorice and its unique properties
This self-growing herb is native to Asia, North Africa, and southern Europe. Licorice root has brown and black skin and yellow core and has medicinal properties. The herb has 5 to 6 brown seeds and bluish flowers.
The herb has four to seven pairs of leaves and a leaflet which are sticky due to the secretion of a special kind of sap.
LICORICE INGREDIENTS
- Glycyrrhizin is the major component of licorice which turns into two molecules of water and glucuronic acid and glycyrrhetinic under hydrolysis condition.
- Glyceric acid, which is 50 times sweeter than sugar, is another ingredient of the herb . The amount of Glyceric in the herb varies between 5 to 20 percent, depending on the plant kind and environmental conditions. The Glyceric increases with age.
- Isoflavones and flavonoids
- Coumarins and strudels
- Terpenoids
- Starch and volatile oils
- Amino acids and lignin
- Amines and waxes
- Sugars such as glucose and sucrose
EXTRAORDINARY MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF LICORICE
As mentioned above, the taste of the herb can vary depending on the herb kind. For example, the Greek sweet is said to have a bitter taste, while the Spanish herb has a milder taste. The following are among the medicinal properties of the herb:
- The dried and abraded root of the herb has expectorant properties. The Hindus have used it in a special medicine called Jasti Mado.
- Having antimicrobial properties, it is used in toothpaste and mouthwash as an anti-decay agent.
- Antispasmodic and anti-muscle cramps
- Treating bronchitis, rheumatism, and swollen joints
- Used in cough syrup.
- having laxative and diuretic properties
- Used as a topical antiviral drug for eyes, ulcers, shingles, mouth, and genital ulcers.
- Helping with the digestive system, while treating ulcers, stomach swelling and duodenum and preventing gastric cancer
- Helping with bloating and indigestion
- Affecting the body’s endocrine system, while lowering blood testosterone levels. However, its effect on testosterone has not yet been studied.
- A skin brightener and anti- Some cosmetic creams usually contain the herb.
Licorice’s Sweet History
- Ancient Egypt: The Herb was highly valued in ancient Egypt, where it was used as a medicinal herb and a sweetener.
- Greek and Roman Empires: The Greeks and Romans also recognized the medicinal properties of licorice and used it to treat various ailments.
- Modern Use: Today, licorice is commonly used as a flavoring agent in candies, teas, and other foods. It’s also found in some herbal remedies and dietary supplements.
Licorice Health Benefits
While research on the health benefits of the herb is ongoing, some studies suggest that it may have the following properties:
- Anti-inflammatory: The herb contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antioxidant: It may have antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from damage.
- Digestive aid: Some people use it to relieve digestive symptoms such as heartburn and ulcers.
- Hormone regulator: the herb may help regulate certain hormones in the body.
Note: It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using the herb for medicinal purposes, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Licorice in Culinary Applications
The Herb is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various culinary applications. Here are a few ideas:
- Candy: the herb is a classic candy flavor and is often used in licorice whips, twists, and drops.
- Tea: the herb root tea is a popular herbal beverage with a sweet and slightly earthy taste.
- Baking: It can be added to cookies, cakes, and other baked goods for a unique flavor.
- Sauces and glazes: the herb can be used to add a sweet and savory element to sauces and glazes.
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