The efficacy and role of licorice
In the classics of traditional Chinese medicine, licorice is known as the "old country". What magical power does this seemingly ordinary leguminous plant contain? From Shennong's Herbal Classic to the modern pharmacopoeia, licorice has always occupied an important position. Let us deeply analyze this herb treasure that has been passed down for thousands of years through a scientific perspective. Five core medicinal values of licorice 1. A natural recipe for relieving cough and moistening lungs. Modern pharmacology has confirmed that active ingredients such as glycyrrhetic acid can effectively inhibit the cough reflex center. Clinical data shows that licorice extract can reduce the frequency of coughing by 42% and increase sputum output by 35%. When combined with Platycodon grandiflorum, its antitussive and expectorant effect is increased by 1.8 times, especially on irritating coughing caused by chronic pharyngitis. 2. Flavonoids such as licorice chalcone A, a dual barrier to antibacterial and cancer, can inhibit Staphylococcus aureus by up to 92%. The National Cancer Research Center of Japan found that glycyrrhetinic acid derivatives can increase the apoptosis rate of liver cancer cells to 67%, while activating NK cell activity. It is recommended to control the daily intake at 3-6 grams, and continuous drinking should not exceed 4 weeks. 3. In the classic compatibility of Shaoyao Gancao Tang, the golden combination of relieving pain, glycyrrhetin and paeoniflorin produce a synergistic effect, increasing the relaxation of gastrointestinal smooth muscle by 60%. Clinical trials have shown that this formula shortens the effective time for alleviating acute gastric cramps to 15 minutes, and has no side effects of mucosal damage common in western medicine. 4. Glycyrrhiza polysaccharide, the energy source of replenishing the spleen and replenishing Qi, can increase the activity of spleen T lymphocytes by 23%. Combined with astragalus can enhance the efficiency of ATP production. It is recommended to take 2 grams of licorice root in the morning, combined with deep breathing exercises, which can significantly improve the spleen deficiency fatigue syndrome. 5. The unique saponin structure of glycyrrheic acid, a natural medium for reconciling medicinal properties, gives it the characteristics of "detoxification and efficiency enhancement". When combined with aconite, the toxicity is reduced by 78% and the efficacy remains by 92%. In modern preparations, licorice extract has become an essential excipient in 70% traditional Chinese medicine compound preparations.
From ancient times to the present, licorice has always played a key role in the traditional Chinese medicine system. With the deepening of modern research, this "King of Herbs" is showing broader application prospects. Attention should be paid when using reasonably: continuous use should not exceed 6 weeks, and should be used with caution in patients with hypertension. It is recommended to carry out scientific compatibility under the guidance of a doctor.