Licorice Root Tea Benefits

BENEFITS OF LICORICE TEA

What is licorice root good for? Why should you drink licorice root tea regularly? Depending on the tea quality, you can get several benefits from consuming this herb, such as:

INCREASING THE BLOOD PRESSURE

Licorice root tea has a stimulating effect, ideal for increasing blood pressure. You can consume this tea if you have low blood pressure (hypotension).

IMPROVING DIGESTIVE HEALTH

Licorice root tea helps reducing gas, which causes bloating. It also soothes nausea and reduces the symptoms of heartburn.

KEEPING THE MOUTH AND TEETH HEALTHY

Licorice root contains flavonoids and coumarins, active compounds that fight bacteria.  They reduce bacterial activities that cause plaque, gingivitis, and bad breath.

Soothing the Throat and Reducing Coughing

Licorice root contains antioxidants that support the immune system. It is helpful to reduce coughing, sore throat, cold, and other light ailments. Licorice root tea coats your throat, reducing the effect of inflammation.

Keeping the Skin and Hair Healthy

The effects of licorice root for skin and hair are related to the antioxidants. They reduce the effects of free radicals from pollution and stress, which slow down the aging effects. Antioxidants and minerals also strengthen the hair follicles and reduce the scalp dryness.

Reducing the Anxiety and Depression Symptoms

Licorice root is often paired with St. John’s Wort to reduce the anxiety and depression symptoms. Both ingredients have stimulating and soothing effects.

While they are not the ultimate solutions for depression or anxiety, they help to manage the symptoms so you can have a better daily life.

RISKS OF LICORICE ROOT TEA

While licorice root tea is great for health, there are several risks you must consider.

• You cannot consume licorice root if you are pregnant (or trying to get pregnant).
• This herb contains glucocorticoids, active compounds that can damage the cognitive functions of babies.
• Licorice root tea also increases the risk of premature birth.
• Licorice root tea can interfere with drugs, such as blood thinners, birth control pills, and adrenal gland medications.
• The stimulating effect in licorice root is dangerous for people with hypertension.
• The herb can also reduce potassium levels, which causes several side effects such as fatigue, palpitations, and irregular heartbeat.

The best way to avoid licorice root risks is by consulting with the doctor before buying one.

Don’t forget to mention your health condition or any drugs and supplements you may be consuming.

HOW TO BREW DRIED LICORICE ROOT

If you have dried licorice root, make sure to brew it properly to get the ultimate flavor and benefits.

Follow these steps to make delicious licorice root tea at home:

• Cut dried licorice root into small pieces (maximum 1 inch)
• Place 1 teaspoon of licorice root into the cup
• Boil 10 ounces of water and pour it into the cup
• Steep the root for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the flavor and strength you want
• Add honey, lemon, stevia, or other flavorings you want
• Enjoy the tea

Limit the licorice root tea consumption to two cups per day. Drinking more than two or three cups will cause side effects.

You can keep oral hygiene, reduce anxiety, soothe a sore throat, and improve digestive health, among other things.

Avoid consuming it if you are pregnant, having specific medical conditions, or taking medications.

Get the licorice root tea benefits by drinking the tea one or two cups per day.