Do you know the benefits of licorice? There are many...
There licorice It's a root well known for its strong, distinctive flavor. A basic ingredient in many sweets, it possesses properties that can provide health benefits when consumed in moderation.
Let's see together what are the active ingredients and the benefits that we can obtain from liquorice, but also its contraindications.
The active ingredients of licorice
The properties of licorice are provided by its numerous active ingredients: glycyrrhizin, mainly present in the bark, flavonoids, glucose, starches, coumarins, mannitol and phytosterols.
The benefits of licorice
Gastrointestinal system: Licorice, with its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, helps relieve and soothe digestive disorders in cases of gastric and duodenal ulcers.
It is also a good remedy for heartburn if taken in the form of an infusion or decoction.
Low blood pressure: Licorice has the benefit of acting as a vasoconstrictor, and therefore, thanks to the active ingredient glycyrrhizae, it helps raise blood pressure in cases of hypotension.
Cough: Licorice is an excellent cure-all for the respiratory system, with its power to calm coughs and expel phlegm from the bronchi.
Liver: According to some studies, consuming dry liquorice extract for at least three days helps protect the liver and improve the problems of those suffering from liver failure.
Its rich antioxidant content appears to promote the reduction of triglycerides and transaminases in liver tissue, increasing liver glycogen. Furthermore, licorice has purifying properties thanks to the presence of coumarins.
Stress: Take a break and sip a licorice tea before going to bed. It will help you relax and combat insomnia thanks to its ability to regulate blood sugar and stimulate cerebrospinal fluids.
Aphrodisiac: Did you know that the scent of this plant stimulates female pleasure more than any other essence?
Contraindications
Who suffers from hypertension It is advisable to moderate the consumption of licorice. Frequent intake could increase the concentration of sodium in the blood and consequently reduce the amount of potassium.
Women who use these products should be careful. birth control pill since the intake of licorice, even in the form of candy, could cause worsening for those suffering from hypertension and hypokalemia.
Also not recommended for those who are allergic to legumes, to those who suffer from kidney failure, at pregnant women and who is subject to menstrual disorders.
If taken in high doses it could also cause diarrhea and water retention.