Black Licorice Uses

Black licorice, once cultivated in Egypt, is now grown in North America and Europe. Its sweet flavor satisfied the thirst of Egyptian solders fighting battles. King Tutankhamen even had this herb present in his tomb. While black licorice is considered a candy, it also serves many medicinal purposes.

Increases Vigor

• Black licorice may assist in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome treatments.

  By stimulating the adrenal gland, herbalists claim that black licorice forms adrenaline, improving a person's energy levels. Due to an increase in energy levels, black licorice may assist in treating illnesses like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, according to the American Cancer Society.

Alleviates Menstrual Problems

• Black licorice supplies estrogen, which alleviates stomach pain caused by menstrual cramps.

  Black licorice contains estrogen, which controls a woman's menstrual cycle. The estrogen in black licorice may contribute to treatments designed to alleviate menopausal symptoms, as indicated by the American Cancer Society. Symptoms relative to menstrual cramps are stomach pain, headache, and nausea.

Relieves Cold and Respiratory Illnesses

• Black licorice causes mucus on the lungs to thin and drain.

  The American Cancer Society promotes the use of licorice for various respiratory ailments. Acting as an expectorant, black licorice causes mucus from colds and respiratory illnesses like bronchitis to thin and drain, while also performing as a lubricant for the respiratory system. Due to its usefulness as a lubricant, black licorice is an essential ingredient in cough medications.

Acts As a Flavoring

• Some cough medications require black licorice to mask their undesirable flavor.

  Black licorice has a sweet flavor that is added to some candies. However, its sweet flavor is also useful in masking the unappealing taste of various cough syrups, according to the American Cancer Society.