### Licorice Root: Nutrients and Health Benefits Licorice root, derived from the licorice plant native to the Mediterranean and Western Asia, has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine. It contains over 300 chemical compounds and flavonoids, with glycyrrhizin being the most active compound. Here are some key health benefits of licorice root: #### Ulcer Treatment and Prevention Licorice root increases mucus production in the stomach, soothing the stomach lining and promoting healing. It also suppresses gastrin production, which helps prevent ulcers. #### Cancer Treatment Studies have shown that glycyrrhizin in licorice root can cause apoptosis (cell death) in stomach cancer and leukemia cells, and glycyrrhetinic acid can suppress cell growth in stomach, leukemia, and liver cancer cells. #### Virus and Bacteria Treatment Licorice root has antiviral and antibacterial properties, slowing down viral replication and hindering bacterial growth. It has shown effectiveness against microbes like Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Candida albicans, as well as viruses like HSV-1, HRSV, and HIV. #### Obesity Reduction Glycyrrhetinic acid in licorice root has been found to decrease body fat. A study showed that participants who consumed 3.5 grams per day of licorice had reduced body fat mass and lower aldosterone levels, which impacts blood pressure. #### Considerations While licorice root has many benefits, it can also cause adverse effects like irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, and developmental issues in children if consumed in large amounts during pregnancy. It can also interfere with certain medications like diuretics, Aldactone, and Warfarin. Always consult a doctor before consuming licorice root supplements. Licorice root can be found in herbal teas and licorice candy made with real licorice. Check labels to ensure the product contains real licorice root or extract.