What are the functions and benefits of raw licorice root?
Disease description:
Recently, I have been feeling some physical discomfort, often experiencing a dry mouth and throat, and I am prone to heatiness (excessive internal heat). While reading some medical literature, I came across certain treatment methods, one of which included the use of raw licorice root (Sheng Gan Cao). What are the specific medicinal properties and effects of this herb?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Raw licorice has a sweet taste and neutral property, and is associated with the heart, lung, spleen, and stomach meridians. The main functions and effects of raw licorice are as follows:
1. Harmonizing various herbs: This is one of the most well-known effects of licorice. In traditional Chinese herbal formulas, licorice is commonly used to harmonize interactions among herbs, reduce the toxicity or side effects of certain herbs, and enhance the overall therapeutic effectiveness of the formula.
2. Tonifying the spleen and replenishing qi: Raw licorice can strengthen the qi of the spleen and stomach, effectively regulating symptoms such as spleen and stomach weakness, indigestion, and loss of appetite.
3. Clearing heat and detoxifying: Raw licorice has certain effects in clearing heat and detoxifying, and can be used to treat conditions such as heat-toxin sores, ulcers, and sore throat.
4. Resolving phlegm and relieving cough: Raw licorice enters the lung meridian and has the effect of resolving phlegm and alleviating cough. This herb can also thin mucus, promote expectoration, and thereby relieve symptoms such as coughing and excessive phlegm. Additionally, raw licorice can moisten the lungs to relieve coughing and is also effective for dry cough with little or no phlegm or difficulty in expectorating small amounts of phlegm.
5. Alleviating spasms and relieving pain: Raw licorice also has the effect of relieving spasms and alleviating pain, and can be used to treat symptoms such as abdominal or limb cramping pain.
