Are you looking for an effective way to deal with your whims? In that case, know that one of such solutions is to reach for Licorice. This plant will surprise you not only with its sweet taste, but also with healthy properties. Few people know that its root contains a substance sweeter than white sugar by about 50 times. What is this substance? Is licorice healthy? And why is it worth eating it regularly? You can find answers to these and other questions below.
What is Licorice from a botanical point of view? It is a perennial plant belonging to the Bobowaty family, which has been one of the most valuable treasures of phytotherapy and natural medicine for centuries. It has odd, small leaves and purple-pink flowers and can reach a height of up to two meters. However, the real value of the plant is its branched root system, in which all valuable active ingredients focus.
The most important of the compounds contained in the root of licorice is glycyrizine – a natural glycoside with sweets significantly exceeding the proper sugar. It is it that gives licorice its unique character – intensely sweet, but at the same time slightly bitter and herbal taste with anise and menthol notes. In addition to taste, this substance has numerous properties that make licorice used for thousands of years not only as a sweetener, but also as a medicinal ingredient.
Scientific studies confirm that Licorice is much more than just a natural sweetener – This is a real pharmacy in one plant. The aforementioned glycyrizine can boast of anti -inflammatory and adaptogenic effects. This means that it has a positive effect on the adrenal work and the endocrine system.
Licorice is also rich in flavonoids that have strong antioxidant properties, protecting cells from free radicals caused and supporting the regenerative processes of the body. Interestingly, it is increasingly talking about its potential anti -cancer characteristics. Do you suffer from digestive problems? In that case, know that licorice works very well with gastrointestinal discomfort. It can be helpful for people struggling with hyperacidity, heartburn or stomach ulcers.
Despite the numerous health benefits, licorice is not suitable for everyone and can cause undesirable effects in some people. Caution should be exercised by patients with hypertension. Why? Because the glycyrizine contained in it can increase blood pressure by stopping water in the body and increasing potassium excretion.
In addition, pregnant and nursing women should avoid this nutraceutic due to its potential impact on the level of hormones. Do you have a heart, kidneys or liver? In that case, consult the consumption of licorice with your doctor.
How to use licorice to fully use its taste and health potential? The easiest way is to start by adding small amounts of powdered root or its extract to your favorite drinks. All you need is a small pinch to sweeten coffee, tea or smoothie – its intensity means that you can significantly reduce the amount of sugar used.
Licorice can successfully replace various types of sweeteners in homemade pastries. Try this option and you will quickly see that it will enrich cakes, muffins and breads with an interesting herbal note. It blends in particularly well with chocolate, vanilla and spices. You may also be tempted to make licorice syrup, cooking its root with water and straining the liquid, which you can then add to semi -liquid snacks and refreshing drinks.
Sources: Teragałuje.pl, pubmed.om, healthline.com
