What are the functions and benefits of炙甘草 (roasted licorice root)?
Disease description:
Recently, I have been experiencing symptoms of palpitations and shortness of breath. A friend recommended using honey-fried licorice (Zhi Gan Cao) for bodily regulation. What are the functions and benefits of honey-fried licorice?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
Processed licorice root (Zhi Gan Cao) has significant functions of invigorating qi and strengthening the spleen, effectively enhancing spleen and stomach functions and improving symptoms such as spleen and stomach weakness, poor appetite, fatigue, and general weakness. Zhi Gan Cao is also highly effective in resolving phlegm and relieving cough, efficiently alleviating symptoms like coughing and excessive phlegm, and playing a positive role in treating respiratory diseases. Additionally, it has functions of relieving spasms and pain, helping to ease various kinds of pain such as stomachache and abdominal pain. Moreover, Zhi Gan Cao has heat-clearing and detoxifying effects, showing certain therapeutic benefits in treating febrile diseases and abscesses. In traditional Chinese herbal formulas, Zhi Gan Cao is commonly used to harmonize the actions of other herbs, reducing their toxicity and side effects while enhancing the overall therapeutic effectiveness.
