Licorice: A sweet remedy with surprising health benefits
Licorice is sweeter than sugar, much healthier, and even has anti-cancer properties. It is a remedy for an insatiable craving for sweets. Not everyone will enjoy its taste, but it's worth trying occasionally.
27 May 2024 16:29
Licorice is a plant with many medicinal properties used in both herbal medicine and cosmetics. The main medicinal and cosmetic raw material is licorice root, which turns yellow after drying. It is also very sweet (with a spicy, slightly bitter aftertaste) due to the presence of glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acid) – a compound that is 50-100 times sweeter than white sugar. However, it's worth noting that consuming too much licorice can negatively affect health.
Licorice - health benefits
One key use of licorice is supporting the healing process of stomach and duodenal ulcers. People struggling with gastritis or irritable bowel syndrome can also benefit from its properties. Additionally, the active compounds in licorice can protect the liver.
Another area where licorice is used is dentistry. Studies have shown that dried licorice root positively affects dental health. It inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria responsible for tooth decay. Therefore, licorice extract is used in candies and many toothpastes and mouthwashes.
Licorice is used to treat respiratory infections and can also alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as craving for sweets, low mood, or water retention in the body. The glycyrrhizin in licorice also exhibits anti-cancer properties.
Licorice instead of sweets?
Because of its sweet properties, licorice can serve as a natural alternative to sugar. If you crave something sweet, try licorice candies – they can help satisfy your sweet tooth. Remember to consume licorice in moderation, as excess consumption can lead to unwanted effects such as high blood pressure or concentration problems.
Moreover, studies conducted on a group of overweight individuals have shown that supplementation with licorice extract has a weight loss effect. This extract is recommended for those looking to shed extra pounds and athletes seeking a safe fat-burning agent.
An additional benefit of licorice supplementation is its ability to promote muscle tissue growth. Licorice improves the condition of bones and joints and provides the body with valuable compounds essential during weight reduction. It effectively enhances both mental and physical performance, making it an ideal supplement during training.
