The main healing properties of licorice root include normalization of the process of removing thick sputum, which is difficult to discharge from the respiratory tract. This is achieved due to the content of glycyrrhizic acid in this plant, which provides licorice root preparations with expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects. Glycyrrhizic acid also has antiviral properties, which makes it an effective tool in the fight against various diseases, including colds and infections.
Licorice root contains other beneficial components that contribute to overall health. Glycyrrhizic acid is known for its hepatoprotective (liver-protective) and antioxidant effects. It promotes liver regeneration and can be used to treat diseases of this organ. Preparations based on licorice root help to eliminate inflammatory processes, which are the main cause of liver damage.
Due to the antifibrogenic effect of glycyrrhizic acid, they help prevent the transformation of liver cells into fibrous tissue. Preliminary use of such drugs can help reduce the risk of liver cancer, especially in chronic hepatitis C. Licorice can also be useful in fatty liver, cirrhosis, alcoholic, toxic and drug-induced liver damage.
Licorice root also has a positive effect on the stomach. The mucilage content of this plant helps to softly protect the gastric mucosa, preventing damage and irritation. The presence of flavonoids helps protect the digestive tract from the Helicobacter bacterium, which can cause gastritis, stomach and intestinal ulcers.
