The licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is used as a medicine around the world. It originated in Europe. Now licorice grows all across Eurasia. High quality Licorice supplement is available from Bodybuilding.com.
2. What does it do and what scientific studies give evidence to support this?
Licorice is a very versatile medicine. It has been used for thousands of years to treat the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts with its soothing and coating action and to treat the adrenals. Concerning the mouth and lungs, its demulcent properties soothe sore throats, while its anti-inflammatory actions help with asthma and bronchitis. Recent studies have found licorice has remarkable rejuvenating effects on the cells of the digestive system and liver and may act as a powerful anti-oxidant in the body. The many anti's of licorice include anticancer, antiarthritic, antitoxic, anti-inflammatory, antitussive, antibiotic, and of coarse anti-oxidant!
3. Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?
Bodybuilders benefit from supplementing with licorice in a number of ways. Every positive attribute of licorice applies to bodybuilders. Anti-inflammatory, antitoxic, digestive aid, anti-oxidant, and adrenal gland support all adds up to huge gains for athletes, weightlifters, and bodybuilders! Licorice has also been found to be supportive of a variety of conditions and ailments. Anyone who suffers from one or more of the following would be wise to look into supplementing with licorice. Licorice has positive effects on the following conditions: asthma, bronchitis, canker sores, chronic fatigue, colic, eczema, fibromyalgia, hepatitis, herpes simplex virus (cold sores), support with HIV, hypoglycemia, heartburn and indigestion, infection, menopause, peptic ulcer, retinopathy, and shingles. Since licorice is not an essential nutrient, it is not associated with deficiency.
4. How much should be taken? Are there any side effects?
The recommended dosage for optimal effects is one 200-300 mg tablet chewed three times per day before eating meals and before going to bed. Some people supplementing with licorice extract may have a slight increase in blood pressure and water retention. Licorice root, on the other hand, has the positive aspects of licorice extract without any known side effects.
