Liquorice Roots (Sticks) 5 pcs, Turkey

Liquorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a substance up to 50 times sweeter than sugar. No wonder it is often confused with liquorice sweets, which are, however, often made with anise extract instead. As always, it pays to read the ingredients if your health matters to you.

Liquorice root, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a perennial herb that grows up to 2 m tall in the Mediterranean region and Asia.

Liquorice root has been valued for centuries. Both Egyptian papyri and Assyrian clay tablets mention its use. In ancient Arabia and ancient Greece it was traditionally used for the throat and airways, and in China it was traditionally used for digestive comfort. Almost all traditional Chinese herbal blends contain liquorice, as it is believed to harmonise herbal mixtures and enhance the properties of other herbs. In India, ancient Ayurveda considers liquorice a soothing herb.

Liquorice root is perhaps best known as an aid for those trying to quit smoking – chewing it for a while is said to take away the craving for a cigarette.

Cut into small slices, the root can be chewed after meals instead of chewing gum to freshen your breath. It has a naturally sweet taste.

Caution!

Regular liquorice, which contains glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhizin, may raise blood pressure and cause the body to excrete more potassium, which may worsen heart conditions. Caution is also advised in case of kidney disease. Excessive consumption during pregnancy may promote premature birth. Unfortunately, there are no data on use during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor.