What are the benefits of raw licorice?

Raw licorice (Gan Cao) is a versatile traditional Chinese medicinal herb known for its multiple therapeutic effects, including tonifying the spleen and enhancing vital energy, clearing heat and detoxifying, relieving cough and expelling phlegm, as well as alleviating spasms and pain. 1. Raw licorice can strengthen the spleen and boost qi, effectively treating conditions such as deficiency of heart qi, palpitations, and spleen-stomach qi deficiency, while also relieving general fatigue and weakness. 2. Its ability to clear heat and detoxify is particularly prominent, making it effective in treating various disorders involving severe heat toxicity, such as painful swellings and abscesses. 3. Raw licorice also possesses antitussive and expectorant properties. Its bioactive components form a protective layer over inflamed pharyngeal mucosa, reducing inflammatory irritation, while promoting secretion from the pharyngeal and bronchial mucous membranes, thus facilitating easier expulsion of sputum. 4. Additionally, raw licorice helps relieve acute discomfort and pain, especially suitable for chronic, long-standing abdominal pain, as well as lower back and leg pain, chest tightness, and chest pain.