Licorice as a herbal remedy

As a herbal remedy Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a wide range of uses and is probably one of the most over-looked of all herbal remedies. It is often used for many ailments including asthma, athlete's foot, baldness, body odour, bursitis, canker sores, chronic fatigue, immune deficiency syndrome, depression, colds and flu, coughs, dandruff, emphysema, gingivitis and tooth decay, gout, heartburn, viral infections, fungal infections, ulcers, liver problems, menopause, sore throat, tendinitis, tuberculosis, ulcers, yeast infections, prostate enlargement and arthritis.
Hundreds of substances have been identified in licorice, including compounds called flavonoids and various plant estrogens (phytoestrogens). The herb's key therapeutic compound, glycyrrhizin (which is 50 times sweeter than sugar) exerts numerous beneficial effects on the body, making licorice a valuable herb for treating a host of ailments. It also seems to prevent the breakdown of adrenal hormones such as cortisol (the body's primary stress-fighting adrenal hormone), making these hormones more available to the body.
Licorice also appears to enhance immunity by boosting levels of interferon, a key immune system chemical that fights off attacking viruses. It also contains powerful antioxidants as well as certain phytoestrogens that can perform some of the functions of the body's natural estrogens; very helpful during the menopause. Glycyrrhizinic acid also seems to stop the growth of many bacteria and of viruses such as influenza A.
Licorice can reduce the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and fibromyalgia. By enhancing cortisol activity, glycyrrhizin helps to increase energy, ease stress and reduce the symptoms of ailments sensitive to cortisol levels.

Properties:
Anti-allergic, anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, demulcent, emollient, estrogenic (mild), expectorant, laxative, pectoral (moderate), soothing.

An American supplier of Licorice Root

A UK based source of Licorice is available here

Another source here