What are the functions and effects of processed licorice (Zhi Gancao)?
Generally speaking, processed licorice (Zhi Gancao) is a type of traditional Chinese herb processed with honey. It offers various therapeutic effects and functions, including strengthening the spleen and replenishing vital energy, protecting the liver, clearing heat and detoxifying, relieving acute pain, and harmonizing the properties of other medicines. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Strengthening the Spleen and Replenishing Vital Energy
Zhi Gancao has a sweet and neutral nature and is particularly effective in replenishing middle jiao qi. It demonstrates good therapeutic effects for various symptoms of qi deficiency, such as weakened spleen and stomach function, physical fatigue, and shortness of breath. During treatment, Zhi Gancao is often combined with other herbs such as ginseng, white atractylodes, and poria to further enhance its effects of strengthening the spleen, replenishing vital energy, and harmonizing bodily functions.
2. Liver Protection
Zhi Gancao contains abundant active ingredients that demonstrate excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can effectively reduce inflammatory responses within the body, minimize damage caused by inflammation, and provide strong antioxidant protection to liver cells against attacks from free radicals and other harmful substances. For patients suffering from liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis, Zhi Gancao helps alleviate symptoms and promotes liver recovery and health.
3. Clearing Heat and Detoxifying
Due to its sweet nature, Zhi Gancao is effective in detoxification and demonstrates good efficacy in treating conditions such as abscesses, throat obstruction, and food poisoning. When treating abscesses and infections, it is often used together with herbs like honeysuckle, trichosanthes root, and angelica dahurica. Additionally, it can help break down toxins from alcohol in the body, reducing damage to the liver and serving as an antidote for alcohol intoxication.
4. Relieving Acute Pain
Zhi Gancao demonstrates unique effects in alleviating acute pain symptoms. Whether it is stomach pain, abdominal pain, or muscle pain, it can provide effective relief. Moreover, Zhi Gancao helps regulate the balance of qi and blood within the body and promotes smooth blood circulation. This property makes it beneficial for treating pain caused by imbalances in qi and blood, contributing to restoring bodily harmony and health.
5. Harmonizing Medicinal Properties
In traditional Chinese medicine formulations, Zhi Gancao plays a harmonizing role by balancing the differences in properties and flavors among various herbs in a prescription. This ensures that the overall formula delivers mild yet balanced therapeutic effects and effectively prevents discomfort or damage that might arise from certain herbs being overly cold, hot, dry, or moist. Additionally, Zhi Gancao possesses a unique ability to promote the absorption and utilization of other medicines, assisting the body in better accepting and transforming these substances, thereby enhancing the overall efficacy of the treatment regimen.
Despite its wide range of benefits, Zhi Gancao should still be used according to medical advice and in appropriate amounts. Individuals with hypertension, obesity, or existing sexual dysfunction should consult a qualified physician before use.