A History of Licorice
Did you know that the licorice plant grows like a weed? That’s because it is one! The licorice plant, a shrub, is officially a weed. It is about four feet tall with purplish flowers and grows in hot, dry places.

- Licorice root is one of the most popular herbs in the world. Its botanical name comes from the Greek words meaning “sweet root.”
- The ancient Greeks, Egyptians, Chinese, and Hindus recognized the natural medicinal qualities of licorice.
- Licorice helps relieve the pains that accompany certain types of ulcers, and it is good for the adrenal glands.
- Carbenoxolone, a compound derived from licorice root, may help slow the effects of aging on the brain.
- Licorice root is a botanical ingredient in modern Chinese medicines used to manage cancers. Current research conducted at Rutgers, the
- State University of New Jersey, supports the use of licorice in the treatment of prostate and breast cancer.
- In the United States, anise seed is a popular substitute flavoring for licorice. Although the anise seed has an unmistakable licorice flavor, it is not related to the European plant whose roots are the source of true licorice.

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