Index
Modern science confirms that this drink helps with weight loss and fights several diseases
But what is licorice? Licorice (or licorice) is an herbaceous plant in the Fabaceae family. It has sweetened root, with which it is possible to produce a medicinal tea for various ailments. It grows to about 1 meter and has pinnate leaves and flowers that vary between purple and blue.
With licorice root it is possible to make medicinal syrups as well as teas. In general, its benefits are attributed to fighting cough and throat problems , but is this true? And if so, does it have other benefits? That’s what we’ll show you below.
Licorice tea: What is it for?
The question that brings many people to research on licorice tea is: “does this tea help with weight loss?”. The answer is yes!
Licorice tea is an ally when it comes to losing fat and reducing measures, but only if used in the right way. See the benefits:
- helps to lose weight
- Helps in the treatment of hepatitis
- It’s good for those with ulcers
- Good for those with polycystic ovaries
- Prevents and fights cancer
- Fights the gases
- Improves appetite caused by malaise
- Fights skin problems.
See how many benefits you can get just by consuming this natural drink? In addition to these medicinal advantages, there are many others still being studied.
We separate those that were listed because there are already official studies that prove they are real. Are you in doubt? Check out our references at the end of the article.
In the next topic, we’ll talk a little more about each of the benefits. This way, you will better understand the beneficial effects of this plant and its derived products.
See more about the benefits
In this topic, you will learn a little about each of the benefits listed above. This is also where we will cite the articles and scientific productions that prove they are true. Check out our references at the end of the article!
helps to lose weight
First of all, it is important to make it clear that liquorice can be a great ally when it comes to slimming down and reducing measures . It is scientifically proven that the consumption of licorice reduces body fat, as it inhibits some types of fat cells (1, 2).
The studies were conducted with 15 normal-weight volunteers who used licorice for two months. Finally, the results showed less production of adipose mass (fat).
However, it is important to remember that it is necessary to follow a healthy diet without exaggeration to obtain this benefit. Also, exercise practice is recommended.
Helps in the treatment of hepatitis
One of the most talked about benefits of licorice in the world of science is its contribution to hepatitis treatments . Studies show that the composition of this plant, especially its root, is a combination of auxiliary substances against hepatitis, mainly types B and C (3).
The study also points out that the glycyrrhizin present in licorice, when injected intravenously in patients with chronic hepatitis B, is able to improve liver functions and lead to full recovery. But we are talking about tea, and it also contributes a lot in these cases.
It’s good for those with ulcers
In addition, science points out that licorice tea is good for those who have ulcers . The consumption of tea coats the stomach before meals, reducing the “aggression” of food in relation to ulcers (2).
Good for those with polycystic ovaries
Many women suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome. Licorice tea can be a great ally of this group. A study observed that there are medicinal substances that help the female body to fight this disease (4).
Prevents and fights cancer
The US Department of Health’s National Cancer Institute, as well as other exceptional studies, point to licorice as an anti-cancer food (2, 5).
According to the team of scientific research professionals, after several studies and analyses, the plant presented important substances mainly for combating prostate, colon, breast, liver and lung cancer .
Fights the gases
An Iranian survey found that the Persians have used licorice tea since the Medieval Era as a medicine against flatulence and gas.
In doing so, researchers have used modern medicine to prove that this is true. The answer was that yes, licorice tea fights gas (6).
Improves appetite caused by malaise
In contrast to the weight loss potential, some studies also point to licorice as a carminative plant (6). Do you know when we have stomach problems and it seems like no food is going to go down well? This tea can help a lot at these times.
According to research, the composition of the plant has active compounds that are good for the stomach and reduce the feeling of malaise, nausea and loss of appetite . In these cases, it is recommended to drink tea twice a day. But if symptoms persist, see a doctor.
Fights skin problems
A scientific study confirmed by the United States Department of Health and Human Services indicated that the substances in licorice combat skin problems such as rash, redness, itching and swelling (7) .
To get this benefit, you can consume the tea by mouth or even wash the skin once a day with the infusion until the problem improves. In more serious cases, the physician should be consulted.
How to prepare licorice tea?
The preparation of licorice tea is very simple and easy. Follow the instructions below to make the best recipe for this medicinal tea:
- Heat 1 liter of filtered water to a boil
- Add 3 tablespoons of chopped licorice root and boil for 10 minutes
- Then turn off the heat and leave covered for another 10 minutes
- Finally, strain and store in a clean bottle.
This tea is naturally sweet , so you don’t need to use anything to sweeten it, not even honey. If you sweeten it, the tea will lose many of its benefits.
When and how to take?
If you wanted to use this tea as an aid to some treatment, we recommend taking one to two cups a day , 30 minutes before lunch and/or dinner.
If you just want the common benefits of tea, a cup a day after lunch is the best option.
What is black licorice?
Black licorice is the same thing as common licorice , but many people get confused thinking they are different varieties or even different plants.
In short, what happens that, sometimes, licorice goes through a different drying process of the leaves and roots, which gives it a darker shade.
Care and contraindications
Last but not least, there are some contraindications in relation to licorice, its tea and its syrup. In some cases, they can do more harm than good. So, stay tuned!
A Finnish study relates some substances in licorice with possible damage to the brain formation of fetuses during pregnancy, so it is important that pregnant women do not consume this plant (7).
The same study is cited above also noted that children’s use of liquor can cause problems such as hyperactivity and attention problems. Therefore, consumption is only suitable for young people and adults .
