Majority of us identify root as a sweet delicacy we buy at candy stores. Although licorice root or Mulethi is sweet in nature, it’s not only being manufactured as sweet treats. In fact, it has many uses and applications, making it a versatile plant.
Licorice root, also known as mulethi, falls under the legume family. Its utility and importance were discovered by our ancestors, and grew in abundance inside the tomb of the Pharaoh Tut. Ancient Egyptians believed to be the cure for many ailments and diseases.
Furthermore, Hindus used licorice root as an aphrodisiac as it was belived to increase the libido or sexual vigor of its users. The ancient Greeks on the other hand used it as thirst quencher and chewed it during periods of drought as an effective and natural means of hydration.
Though the roots of licorice root came from these civilizations, modern-day Mulethi are growing in great quantities in Italy and Spain. Its importance and application are very much different than from how our ancestors used it in the past. What remains clear and solid are its many medicinal uses.
With this in mind, we enumerate some of the many health
benefits of mulethi that you may now be aware of:
1. Promotes Healthy Liver Function
Licorice root extract has been proven to protect the liver from serious conditions such as liver cirrhosis and Hepatitis C. As the liver’s primary function is to filter toxins, waste products, and deadly pathogens, licorice root extract helps it to further boost these functions at their fullest.
2. Prevents Hair Loss and Male Pattern Baldness
Licorice root inherently contains high levels of DHT or dihydrotestosterone blocker and anti-androgen compounds. Based on studies, high concentrations of androgen can lead to excessive DHT production. DHT that are not metabolized properly attaches themselves to follicles leading to male pattern baldness. DHT is a compound that reduces hair follicle size, which in turn restricts healthy blood supply to the scalp. The hair follicles as well as hair shaft are then restricted to low amounts of nutrients.
Licorice root features phytoestrogen qualities that effectively decrease testosterone levels, thus stopping excessive production of DHT.
3. Chronic Fatigue Remedy
External stressors plague us on a daily basis. Whether it is environment, physical, or mental stress, our adrenal glands go on overdrive and increase our stress levels on the long run. Cortisol or stress hormones are produced by the adrenal glands at every chance it gets, thus making us more stressed while at the same time reducing our energy levels too. High concentrations of cortisol in the bloodstream lead to chronic fatigue, which can be detrimental to both health and wellness. Licorice root is a potent
herb that effectively manages cortisol production, thus enabling your adrenal glands to go on a break, and giving you much needed energy too.
4. Internal Sunblock Powers
Research studies reveal that licorice root contains Licochalcone A, a compound known to be its main ingredient. Its main function is to protect the skin from frequent exposure to UV rays by further strengthening our skin’s immunity. Licochalcone A blocks the harmful effects of UV rays while at the same time supporting the many healthful benefits that we derive from sun exposure. This is beneficial in that you can simply utilize licorice root extract through its intake. No need to purchase sun block lotions that may potentially include harmful ingredients to the skin.
5. Eczema Treatment and Management
Licorice root is traditionally being used to treat the symptoms of eczema. When taken internally, licorice root effectively manages the inflammation that happens in the liver and kidneys. The end result is clarity and radiance of the skin. As a topic solution, licorice root extract may be used to reduce the discomfort caused by redness, swelling, and itching- symptoms that relate to eczema.
6. Canker Sore Management
People suffering from the discomfort and unsightly appearance of canker sores will definitely benefit from the application of a solution that features licorice root as one of its ingredients. Combine 1.2 teaspoon of licorice extract with ¼ water and apply it directly to canker sores. This treatment significantly reduces the size of canker sores when applied four times daily. Canker sores usually develop among people who suffer from extreme levels of stress, hormonal imbalances, and bacterial imbalances-all of which lower immunity. In addition, licorice root exhibits antimicrobial properties that treat canker sores by way of slowing down the growth of disease-causing microorganisms.
7. Soothes Inflammation
Licorice root contains natural plant steroids that boast a
nti-inflammatory qualities.
8. Immune System Stimulant
Licorice root when taken internally is proven to increase
interferon levels, which in turn, excites superoxide dismutase or SOD to release natural hydrogen peroxide. This compound elevates the production of white blood cells as well as hormones that ward off infectious agents.
9. Diabetes Prevention
Licorice root contains high levels of natural phytoestrogen called Glabridin that has been proven to protect our system against diabetes. It does this by regulating as well as increasing the levels of manganese, superoxide dismutase- powerful antioxidants that hold crucial function in blood sugar regulation.
10. Stunt the Growth of Prostate Tumors
Licorice root extract boasts natural and safe ingredients that stunt the growth of abnormal, tumor cells. One study reveals that licorice root extract ingredient was extremely powerful in shrinking the size of prostate tumors when compared alongside the results of taking prescription medications.
In general licorice root extract is harmless and safe to
consume. However this is the case, it is advisable that you consult with your doctor prior to using licorice root extract as part of a treatment regime.
