What are the benefits of drinking licorice root tea?

Jun 24, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, a friend gave me some licorice root and suggested I brew it as tea. May I ask what are the benefits of drinking licorice root tea?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
Licorice root tea offers multiple health benefits. Glycyrrhiza (licorice) can strengthen the spleen and enhance vital energy, thus improving symptoms such as spleen and stomach weakness and insufficient middle jiao qi. It also has heat-clearing and detoxifying properties, providing relief for symptoms like heat-toxin sores, ulcers, sore throat, and swelling. Licorice tea can also help resolve phlegm and relieve cough, particularly effective for symptoms such as excessive phlegm and persistent coughing. Additionally, licorice has functions of alleviating spasms and relieving pain, making it applicable for conditions like abdominal cramping pain caused by spleen deficiency and liver hyperactivity, or limb spasms due to insufficient yin and blood. Licorice tea also harmonizes the effects of other herbs and can mitigate the toxicity and strong effects of other medicinal substances. However, the dosage of licorice tea should not be excessive. It is generally recommended not to use more than 5 grams per serving. Special populations such as pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children should consume it only under medical supervision.