Botanical Library
Licorice
TCM tradition
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At a glance
Where it's from
Native to the Mediterranean and western Asia.
Look & taste
The sweet root of a legume shrub. Sweet, anise-like
Signature compounds
Glycyrrhizin (far sweeter than sugar) and flavonoids.
Traditionally used for
Gan Cao - the great harmonizer of Chinese medicine, used to tonify qi and soothe the throat and stomach.
In Canada, we can say...
Traditionally used in Herbal Medicine as an expectorant to relieve cough and mucus of the upper respiratory tract, and to relieve inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract (such as gastritis) in adults.
Did you know?
In TCM, licorice is added to most formulas to 'harmonize' the other herbs.
History & natural history
One of the most-used herbs in TCM ('the great harmonizer') and Western tradition.
What we're actually allowed to say
🇨🇦 Health Canada
✓ Permitted: Traditionally used in Herbal Medicine as an expectorant to relieve cough and mucus of the upper respiratory tract, and to relieve inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract (such as gastritis) in adults.
How to use it
As a tea or capsule, short-term (DGL forms for the gut).
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Request Licorice →Side effects & safety
Do not use if pregnant or if you have high blood pressure, low potassium, or a heart, kidney or liver disorder. Not for use beyond 4 weeks without advice.
A note on how to read this page. Traditional (TCM / Ayurveda) and holistic notes are cultural and historical context, offered for education — not medical advice or health claims. Health Canada's permitted claims reflect what regulators have assessed. Emerging research is early, and not a promise of results. Nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always talk to your (or your pet's) health professional before starting a supplement.