With expectorant and bronchodilator properties, licorice helps reduce cough, relieve sore throat, and alleviate symptoms of cold and flu.
Licorice is a traditional herb with numerous health benefits in various ways. Especially as winter approaches, it can be a very useful herb for treating common ailments associated with cold weather, such as colds and flu.
Benefits of Licorice
According to India Times, licorice, also known as “sweetwood”, is a fragrant traditional herb often used in teas and beverages to enhance flavor. This plant is known for its effects on treating respiratory and digestive disorders.
Licorice is believed to possess antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, helping to maintain the health of the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reduce constipation, and prevent stomach and duodenal ulcers. Additionally, it is known to boost the immune system, preventing diseases and infections.
Individuals with high cholesterol should consider using licorice, as the antioxidants found in this herb help dilate blood vessels and prevent plaque buildup in arteries. This can reduce the risk of heart disease. According to traditional Indian Ayurveda medicine, licorice also lowers testosterone levels in women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thereby increasing the chances of conception.
Licorice root, powder, or tea has many health benefits. (Image: Invibeherbal).
How to Use Licorice to Treat Colds and Sore Throat at Home
In addition to helping treat various ailments in the body, licorice also alleviates coughs and colds. In fact, this herb is a quick remedy for sore throats and other respiratory symptoms. Its expectorant and bronchodilator properties help treat conditions such as whooping cough, asthma, dry cough, and bronchitis.
Here are some ways you can use licorice to relieve flu-like symptoms, especially cough and sore throat:
- Boil a few licorice sticks in water. Then, sip slowly to soothe a sore throat.
- Mix one teaspoon of ginger, cinnamon, and licorice powder into a cup of hot water, add honey, and drink this mixture 1-2 times a day. This can help relieve dry cough and cold symptoms.
- Add a piece of licorice root and a few leaves of basil or mint to a pot of water and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. Then, strain out the leaves and roots, and drink it hot or warm.
- Mix 1/2 teaspoon of ginger juice into licorice tea to soothe asthma and bronchial symptoms.
- Chew a piece of licorice root as an effective remedy for sore throat and hoarseness.
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