Licorice

Latin Name: Glycyrrhiza glabra
Herb Class/Action: Spleen Qi Tonic, Adaptogen, Yin Tonic, Hormone Modulator
Parts Used: Root
Flavors: Sweet, slightly bitter
Energetics: Gently warming and moistening
Traditional Benefits: Lung support, immune system support, digestive system support, adrenal support, hormone support, liver support, energy support

Licorice Root, not to be confused with the candy, is a powerful immune-supporting adaptogen that naturally offers a sweet flavor.

With a long history of use in both European and Asian traditional medicine, Licorice is often called a “peace-making herb” because of its ability to harmonize and amplify the effects of other herbs in a formula. It works synergistically to deliver the healing properties of a blend where they are most needed.

In Chinese medicine, Licorice is known for supporting the spleen, stomach, and upright Qi, as well as the sympatho-adrenal system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. It has been used across cultures to nourish and support the lungs, digestive, reproductive, and adrenal systems.

The healing powers of Licorice Root come from a compound called glycyrrhizin, which gives it its Latin name glycyrrhiza glabra—literally meaning “sweet root.” Glycyrrhizin is 50 times sweeter than table sugar, making Licorice root naturally sweet yet deeply effective in balancing energy levels and supporting overall body systems.