Oldest Herbal Remedy Renews and Revitalizes Your Digestive System?

If you’ve been with me for a while, you know that I’ve always been fascinated with ancient healing herbs.

You know, the ones that have been used for centuries to address pressing health conditions.

One such herb that’s had my attention for some time is licorice.

The licorice plant, more formerly known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, is native to Western Asia and Southern Europe.

And its root is considered one of the world’s oldest herbal remedies.

Medicinal use of licorice root can be traced back to ancient Egypt where it was made into a sweet drink for pharaohs.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and healers in the Middle East and Greece turned to licorice root to address a variety of health issues from upper respiratory concerns to upset stomach.

The sweet taste of licorice stems from a compound in the root called glycyrrhizin.

This compound is also thought to hold the secret to the root’s powerful healing powers.

You see, glycyrrhizin is a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

How does that translate to improving health?

Well for one, research has found licorice root to be a promising solution for skin conditions, like acne and eczema. 

Also, preliminary studies have shown licorice root helps address upper respiratory concerns, like a cough and sore throat.

It’s even been found to help protect against bacteria that can lead to cavities.

In one study, preschool kids were given sugar-free lollipops with 15 mg licorice root twice a day during their school week.

Consuming the lollipops was shown to significantly reduce the amount of Streptococcus mutans bacteria – the main cause of cavities.

But my main interest in licorice has been in the area of digestive health.

You see, licorice root has been found to be one of the most effective natural treatments for indigestion, such as acid issues, upset stomach, and heartburn. (That’s why it’s a key ingredient in my Digestive Freedom Plus formula.)

Licorice is effective because it coats the stomach lining and protects the stomach from erosive damage caused by acid.

But before you run down to the store and pick up a pack of Twizzlers to ease your heartburn or tame your acne, keep in mind that red licorice contains no actual licorice root. 

Only black licorice does. Red licorice is really just sugar.

And even many black licorice products sold here in the U.S. contain little or no real licorice.

Instead, they’re made with anise oil which has a similar smell and taste.

When it comes to reaping the most benefit from licorice root, I prefer to go straight to the source.

You can find peeled licorice root dried or as a powder, in supplement or tincture forms.

Just be sure to read labels carefully to be sure you’re getting the real stuff.