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It has an agreeable taste and increases the flow of saliva and mucus when slowly chewed or sucked; the increased secretions act as emollients to the throat. Licorice is one of the oldest, mildest and yet most efficient laxatives (aperients), and is especially safe and effective for delicate or constipated children, or for adults having stomach weakness who are unable to take the stronger laxatives (cathartics). It softens, soothes, lubricates, and nourishes the intestinal tract.
A perennial, 2-3 feet tall. The rootstock is wrinkled, brown on the outside, yellow inside and sweet to the taste. Stems start out round at the base, and become angular towards the top. Pale blue flowers grow in axillary racemes. The pod is glabrous with 3-4 seeded, reddish brown seeds. Found in central and western U.S. and widely cultivated.
The rootstock is used in flavoring food, tobacco, drinks, sweets and medicines. It is a adrenal tonic, demulcent, diuretic, expectorant, and laxative. Historically used to treat bronchitis, coughs, hoarseness, mucous congestion, reduces fevers, helps in allergies, asthma, gastritis, peptic ulcers, bladder and kidney problems. It can strengthens the immune system, and stimulate the adrenal glands. A decoction makes a good laxative for children. Avoid in cases of high blood pressure. Glycyrrhizin in the roots is 50 times sweeter than sugar. For infusion or decoction use 1 teaspoon of the rootstock to 1 cup water.
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