Licorice root tea has a wide range of health benefits such as detoxifying the body, soothing spasms, easing menstrual cramps, raising blood pressure, eliminating respiratory infections, reducing inflammation, treating stomach disorders, protecting the skin and strengthening the hair. There are also a few potential side effects of drinking this tea including drug interactions, high blood pressure, vitamin deficiencies, increased water retention, stomach distress, erectile dysfunction and higher risk of cancer. These side effects are mainly experienced when an excessive amount of licorice root tea is consumed, although allergic sensitivities can also be the cause of negative reactions.
What Is Licorice Root Tea?
Licorice root tea, as the name implies, is made by steeping the roots of the licorice plant, scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra. Licorice root tea has been a popular tool in natural medicine for thousands of years, particularly in regions where this plant is native including Europe, Asia and India. The many health benefits of licorice root tea are due to the presence of unique organic compounds, including glycosides, flavonoids, anethole, coumarins, sterols and a number of other antioxidants, as well as certain minerals and vitamins. Due to the powerful and potent nature of the root and the risk of toxicity, no more than 3 cups of this tea should be consumed each day, which should be more than enough to enjoy the following health benefits.
Benefits Of Licorice Root Tea
Licorice root tea is recommended for people suffering from low blood pressure, arthritis, gout, indigestion, colds, coughs, respiratory infections, painful menstruation, seizures, high toxicity levels, dry skin, premature aging, hair loss, dandruff and various other conditions.
Skin Health
In terms of skin health, licorice root tea can help to keep your skin moisturized when used as a topical application (cold tea), but can also improve the antioxidant levels in your body, helping to minimize signs of aging. Furthermore, licorice tea can help soothe inflammatory conditions like psoriasis or eczema, and even act as a natural sunscreen, helping to block UV rays that damage the skin.
Low Blood Pressure
If you suffer from hypotension, also known as low blood pressure, the stimulating nature of licorice root tea can elevate your blood pressure to normal levels, providing a boost to your energy levels and preventing dizziness and fatigue. However, if you suffer from high blood pressure, this tea can be a dangerous choice for your overall health.
Anti-spasmodic Effects
By soothing the symptoms of seizure disorders and spasms of smooth muscle tissue in the body, licorice root tea can help to relieve heartpalpitations, smooth digestive properties and ensure proper muscle function throughout the body.
Menstrual Cramps
Licorice root tea has been traditionally used to treat the symptoms of dysmenorrhea, also known as menstrual cramps, and also improve other symptoms of PMS, such as mood swings and hormonal fluctuations. However, when consumed in excess, this tea can have the opposite effects, so only drink this tea in moderation!
Hair Health
Known for its moisturising qualities, this versatile tea can prevent dryness of the scalp and prevent dandruff, while also delivering rich antioxidants and minerals to the hair, strengthening the follicles and improving the appearance of your hair. This tea has also been praised for its ability to stop hair loss, both when consumed as a tea and when topically applied.
Immune System
Upper respiratory infections can be persistent and difficult to get over, but licorice root tea can quickly cut through the phlegm and mucus, soothing inflammation in the throat, and giving the immune system a boost to eliminate the underlying bacteria or pathogen. The antioxidants found in this tea are also integral to the body’s defenses against illness.
Diuretic Effect
By stimulating urination, licorice root tea can help detoxify the body. This has impressive effects on the liver. Urination eliminates excess salts, fats, toxins and water from the body, relieving strain on the kidneys and bladder. However, since this tea does have diuretic and laxative effects, drinking too much can cause dehydration and other negative side effects.
Anxiety and Depression
Commonly paired with St. John’s Wort, this herbal tea is often recommended for people suffering from anxiety and depression. The soothing flavor and stimulating activity of this tea can improve mood and rebalance stress hormone levels in the body.
How To Make Licorice Root Tea
You can make licorice root tea at home with dried licorice root, hot water and any natural sweetener, if desired. However, it is important to speak with your doctor before using this tea, as it can have a number of side effects and interactions with various medications or medical conditions. Dried licorice root can be purchased from any natural food store and is widely available around the world.
Source: Naturalnews