Botanical Name:
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Common Names:
- Licorice Root
- Sweet Root
- Liquorice
Herbal Energetics:
- Temperature: Warming
- Moisture: Moistening
Flavor:
- Sweet, slightly bitter
Herbal Actions:
- Demulcent (soothes mucous membranes)
- Adaptogenic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiviral
- Antimicrobial
- Expectorant (helps expel mucus)
- Laxative (mild)
- Hormonal regulator
Organ Affinities:
- Respiratory system
- Digestive system
- Endocrine system
- Adrenal glands
- Immune system
Uses:
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Digestive Health: Licorice root is widely used to soothe and protect the digestive tract. It helps with conditions such as gastritis, ulcers, and acid reflux by forming a protective layer on mucous membranes and reducing inflammation.
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Respiratory Health: Its expectorant properties make licorice root effective in treating coughs, colds, and bronchitis. It helps loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract, easing congestion and irritation.
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Adrenal Support: Licorice root acts as an adaptogen, helping the body cope with stress and support adrenal function. It can be beneficial for those experiencing adrenal fatigue or chronic stress.
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Immune Support: The antiviral and antimicrobial properties of licorice root make it useful for bolstering the immune system and fighting infections. It is often used in herbal formulas for immune support and respiratory health.
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Hormonal Balance: Licorice root has mild estrogenic effects, which can be helpful in managing hormonal imbalances. It is sometimes used to support menstrual health and alleviate symptoms of menopause.
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Anti-inflammatory: Licorice root helps reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis or inflammatory skin conditions. Its anti-inflammatory actions contribute to overall pain relief and tissue healing.
Preparation and Dosage:
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Tincture:
- Dosage: 2–4 ml (about 40–80 drops) of a 1:5 tincture in alcohol, taken 2–3 times daily. Use for immune support, respiratory health, or adrenal function.
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Decoction:
- Dosage: Boil and then simmer 1–2 teaspoons of dried licorice root in 2 cups of water for 20–30 minutes. Strain and drink 1 cup 1–2 times daily for digestive health or respiratory conditions.
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Powder/Capsules:
- Dosage: 300–500 mg of licorice root powder, taken 1–2 times daily. Suitable for digestive issues, adrenal support, or as part of an herbal formula.
Contraindications:
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High Blood Pressure: Licorice root can cause fluid retention and increase blood pressure. It should be used with caution or avoided by individuals with hypertension or heart conditions.
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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Licorice root is generally not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its potential hormonal effects and impact on fluid balance. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
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Kidney Issues: Due to its effect on sodium and potassium balance, licorice root may exacerbate kidney problems. Individuals with kidney disease should use it cautiously.
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Hormonal Conditions: Due to its estrogenic effects, licorice root should be used with caution by individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast cancer or endometriosis.
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Medication Interactions: Licorice root may interact with medications, including corticosteroids and diuretics. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use if on these or other medications.
Materia magica
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Planetary Correspondence: Venus (associated with love, harmony, and healing) and Jupiter (for growth, expansion, and protection)
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Deities: Licorice root is connected to deities of healing and abundance:
- Hera/Juno: The Greek/Roman goddess associated with marriage and abundance, reflecting licorice’s ability to balance and support health.
- Asclepius: The Greek god of medicine and healing, symbolizing licorice’s role in digestive, respiratory, and overall health.
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Magical Uses:
- Healing: Licorice root can be used in magical practices to promote physical and emotional healing. It can be included in healing baths, teas, or sachets to support overall well-being.
- Abundance and Prosperity: Given its associations with Venus and Jupiter, licorice root can be used in spells and rituals to attract abundance and prosperity. Use it in prosperity sachets, charm bags, or as an offering in abundance rituals.
- Emotional Balance: Licorice root’s soothing and harmonizing properties make it useful in rituals aimed at emotional balance and stress relief. It can be used in relaxation spells or added to meditation blends.
- Protection: Licorice root can be used in protective magic to shield against negative influences and promote overall well-being. Incorporate it into protective charms or rituals to safeguard health and happiness.
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Rituals:
- Healing Tea Ritual: Prepare a tea with licorice root and use it during a healing ritual to support physical and emotional health. Focus on creating a protective and soothing environment.
- Abundance Spell: Add licorice root to a prosperity spell or charm bag to attract financial abundance and success. Pair it with other abundance herbs like cinnamon and basil.
- Emotional Balance Bath: Add licorice root to a bath for emotional healing and stress relief. Light a pink or green candle to enhance the balancing effects and focus on releasing tension.
- Protective Amulet: Create a protective charm with licorice root and carry it with you or place it in your home to promote health and ward off negative energies