Written By Go Vita
ONE OF THE MOST EXTENSIVELY USED AND THOROUGHLY STUDIED HERBAL REMEDIES, LICORICE HAS A LONG MEDICINAL HISTORY.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been used for centuries in Ayurveda, India’s traditional medical system. It is excellent for immune support because it contains glycyrrhizin, which reduces inflammation and increases levels of interferon, a virus-fighting substance produced by the immune system. The Sanskrit name for licorice is yastimadhu, which means “the sweet stick”, and Ayurvedic medicine considers it to be soothing and balancing, while in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) it is called “the great harmoniser”. What it does Here are the top reasons why licorice is an important addition to your winter health regime: A nerve tonic Licorice is a strong adrenal tonic which supports and improves energy levels – it is often used to treat adrenal fatigue and chronic fatigue. When excess stress, nervous exhaustion and anxiety result in physical and mental debility, licorice has a fortifying effect.
Support for digestion Due to its cooling effect, licorice is useful for any type of digestive problem involving inflammation, such as heartburn, indigestion, ulcers, acidity, gastritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Given that optimal digestive function is integral to good health, licorice contributes to overall vitality and wellbeing.
Enhances calm Ayurveda regards licorice as being ‘sattvic’ in nature, meaning it induces a peaceful state in body and mind; its grounding and calming properties are said to increase love and compassion and to enhance clarity during meditation. An adaptogenic herb, licorice helps to build stress resilience and mental strength.
Improves respiratory health Licorice thins mucus, so it can help ease asthma, bronchitis, allergies and colds by relieving symptoms of coughing, wheezing and sore throat.
Go Vita loves … Organic India Tulsi Licorice Tea
In this delicious blend, Organic India combines the soothing, sweet character of licorice with tulsi, India’s legendary sacred herb. Tulsi is has long been a favourite of yogis, because it nourishes and balances the mind and spirit as well as the body. Together, tulsi and licorice create a warming, mellow, caffeine-free tea with sparkling flavour notes of spicy cinnamon and ginger plus the freshness and zest of lemon, which helps you get to the other side of a sugar craving without caving in to sweet snacks.
Note: Always check with your doctor for certain contraindications that may relate to licorice, such as liver disorders, hypertension, heart failure or oedema.
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