Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra, Glycyrrhiza uralensis)

Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra, Glycyrrhiza uralensis)

Botanical Description

  • Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
  • Common Names: Liquorice, Licorice, Sweet Root
  • Parts Used: Root (Rhizome), Leaves (Less Commonly Used)
  • Native Habitat: Native to Southern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia, but cultivated in the UK and Isle of Man for medicinal and confectionery purposes.

Liquorice is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic, and soothing properties, making it a valuable herb in human, equine, and canine health.

Constituents & Their Actions

1. Liquorice Root (Glycyrrhiza radix)

  • Constituents:

    • Glycyrrhizin (Triterpenoid Saponin) – Anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and adrenal-supportive.
    • Flavonoids (Liquiritin, Isoliquiritin) – Antioxidant and liver-protective.
    • Coumarins – Blood-thinning and cardiovascular support.
    • Polysaccharides & Mucilage – Soothing to the gut and respiratory system.
    • Phytoestrogens – Hormonal balancing properties.

  • Primary Actions:

    • Anti-inflammatory – Useful for arthritis, respiratory conditions, and digestive inflammation.
    • Adaptogen (Adrenal Support) – Helps with stress, fatigue, and hormonal balance.
    • Expectorant & Respiratory Tonic – Eases coughs, bronchitis, and asthma.
    • Digestive Soother – Helps with ulcers, acid reflux, and gastritis.

  • Uses:

    • Equine & Canine: Supports joint health, digestion, and respiratory function.
2. Liquorice Leaves (Less Commonly Used)

  • Constituents:

    • Flavonoids & Saponins – Mild anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
    • Coumarins – Support circulation and mild blood-thinning properties.

  • Primary Actions:

    • Mild Respiratory Support – Helps clear mucus and congestion.
    • Skin & Wound Healing – Used topically in poultices.

  • Uses:

    • Equine & Canine: Occasionally used as a mild respiratory herb.

Equine Use of Liquorice

Benefits for Horses

Liquorice is commonly used in horses for:

  1. Respiratory Support – Helps with coughs, allergies, and inflammatory lung conditions.
  2. Digestive Aid – Soothes gastric ulcers, colic, and gut irritation.
  3. Joint & Muscle Health – Reduces inflammation in arthritic horses.
  4. Adrenal & Hormonal Balance – Supports horses under stress or with Cushing’s Disease.
⚠ Precautions
  • Can raise blood pressure – Avoid in hypertensive horses.
  • Not for prolonged use – Long-term high doses may cause water retention or potassium depletion.
  • Avoid in pregnant mares – May affect hormonal balance.

Canine Use of Liquorice

Benefits for Dogs

Liquorice is used for:

  1. Anti-inflammatory Support – Helps with arthritis, allergies, and skin irritation.
  2. Digestive Health – Soothes acid reflux, gastritis, and gut inflammation.
  3. Respiratory Relief – Aids coughs, asthma, and bronchitis.
  4. Adrenal & Stress Support – Supports dogs with Addison’s Disease or chronic fatigue.
⚠ Precautions
  • Can cause high blood pressure – Avoid in dogs with heart conditions.
  • May interact with corticosteroids – Consult a vet before using if the dog is on steroids.
  • Avoid in pregnant dogs – May affect hormonal balance.

UK & Isle of Man Folklore of Liquorice

Folklore & Historical Use

Liquorice has been used in British herbal medicine since the Middle Ages, particularly in England, Scotland, and the Isle of Man.

  • Yorkshire & Pontefract – Liquorice was grown in monasteries and became famous in Pontefract cakes.
  • Traditional Manx Medicine – Used for coughs, digestion, and nervous ailments.
  • Old English Remedies – Liquorice was boiled into syrups to treat sore throats and lung infections.
Symbolism & Mythology
  • Associated with Longevity & Strength – Often linked to stamina and vitality.
  • Used in Love Potions – Due to its sweet taste and soothing effects.
  • Protection Against Evil Spirits – Sometimes burned as incense or carried as a charm.

Conclusion

Liquorice is a powerful adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory herb, offering respiratory, digestive, and hormonal support for humans, horses, and dogs. It has a rich history in UK and Isle of Man herbal traditions, particularly for coughs, ulcers, and endurance. However, it should be used with caution in cases of high blood pressure or long-term use.

Calming

Digestion

Inflamation

Respiratory

Wellbeing

Linden (Tilia spp.) Common Herbs M-Z