Licorice is the common name of Glycyrrhiza glabra species, from Leguminosae family.
Also known as: liquorice, sweetwood.
Flower of a wild American licorice
Image credit: Jim Pisarowicz
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Features of Licorice
Height to 60 inches. Spread to 36 inches. Zone 5-9. Hardy perennial
hairy stem.
kidney-shaped seed.
small, spike-clustered, white and purple flower.
Growing Licorice
Soil »
sandy loam
Site »
sunlight
Propagate »
- by root division during spring and autumn.
- by seed during spring. Difficult to germinate, especially in cool climates.
Maintain »
- growth: The plant can be invasive.
- protection: Protect young plants in cold winters.
- trimming: deadhead flowers to promote root growth.
Using Licorice
Culinary
Dessert
Make licorice candies. (Use root)
Marinade
Use in Asian-style spicy marinades. (Use root)
Medicinal
First-aid
Apply externally to insect bites. (Use root)
Medicine
Treat sore throats and coughs. (Use root)
Other Use
Other use
Flavours tobacco products. (Use root)
Other use
Used to make toothpaste, shoe polish, and other products. (Use root)
Traditional Remedies
- Skin » insect bite
- Respiratory » cough, sore throat, phlegm
- Digestive » constipation
- Other » mouth ulcer
Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.
Cautions
- Dosage » Do not consume large doses of licorice.
- Conditions » Do not use during pregnancy. Also unsuitable for people with high blood pressure and other medical conditions. Do not use licorice in self-medication.
- Please consult with your doctor before using licorice for health related purposes.
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