Licorice, a plant widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and everyday diet, has a unique sweet taste and rich nutritional value. What are the effects and functions of licorice? It not only has medicinal value, but can also be used as a food additive and skincare product. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the effects and functions of licorice.
I. Effects of Licorice
1. Medicinal Effects
Licorice contains compounds such as glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid, which have the effects of relieving cough and phlegm, clearing heat and detoxifying, relieving pain, and harmonizing the properties of medicines. In traditional Chinese prescriptions, licorice is often used as part of the formula to enhance the efficacy and reduce side effects.
2. Edible Effects
Licorice can be used to make candies, pastries, beverages, and other foods, adding a unique sweet taste. At the same time, licorice also has certain health benefits and can help improve the body's immunity.
3. Beauty Effects
The flavonoids in licorice have antioxidant effects, can inhibit melanin production, and have the effects of whitening the skin and combating aging.
II. Functions of Licorice
1. Effects on the Respiratory System
Licorice can alleviate cough and phlegm, and has a certain therapeutic effect on respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma.
2. Effects on the Digestive System
Licorice has anti-ulcer, antispasmodic, and analgesic effects, and has a certain therapeutic effect on digestive system diseases such as gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers.
