White Licorice Plant Medical Uses

The white licorice plant is a tender perennial that grows in full sun and well-drained soil. The plant's leaves are commonly made into a tea that once consumed exclusively by the higher class in China, according to the Green Tea Resource website, which notes the tea has very little caffeine. White licorice is also available as an extract to be used externally. Always consult a doctor before starting any new health regimen.
  1. Circulatory System

    • White licorice tea strengthens arteries, increasing their efficiency and reducing the risk of stroke, according to the Natural Home Remedies website. It also lowers cholesterol levels and reduces blood pressure. The tea of this plant is often used to eliminate headaches.

    Digestive Tract

    • Drinking white licorice plant tea can improve conditions having to do with the digestive tract, such as reducing indigestion and flatulence. Because it reduces the amount of acid in the stomach, it also eliminates or reduces heartburn, and helps sooth and cure ulcers. Although it is considered a mild laxative, it will also help relieve the symptoms of diarrhea. White licorice tea has been given to infants to treat severe colic.

    Cold and Flu

    • White licorice encourages the body to produce a substance called interferon, which helps the body fight cold and flu viruses. This herb also has antibacterial and anti-viral properties that will help the body fight infection and existing colds or flu. Licorice root is used for its expectorant properties in helping the body get rid of mucus.

    Skin

    • White licorice extract can be used to protect the skin from sun damage when applied topically. The fresh leaves of this plant are used as wound dressings, and infusions of the leaves are used as an antiseptic wash, according to PlantZAfrica, a website sponsored by the South African National Biodiversity Institute that provides information about plants native to southern Africa.

    Antioxidants

    • White licorice contains antioxidants, which help protect cells from free radicals, or unstable molecules, that can damage the body at the cellular level. This damage causes many diseases, such as cancer. Antioxidants also improve the immune system and help fight heart disease and high cholesterol.

Herbs Alternative Medicine - Related Articles