Overview of the efficacy and functions of raw licorice

Raw licorice is a commonly used tonic medicinal material in traditional Chinese medicine.Clear away heat and detoxify, moisten lungs and relieve cough, harmonize medicinal propertiesMultiple functions. Its main components, glycyrrhizic acid and liquiritin, give it anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it suitable for sore throats and weak spleen and stomach. In clinical practice, raw licorice can be used alone or in combination with other medicinal materials to exert a synergistic effect. It should be noted that long-term overdose may cause edema or increased blood pressure, so use according to medical advice. The following will provide a detailed explanation of its core functions, applicable symptoms, incompatibility and precautions.

Core functions: clearing away heat, detoxifying, moistening the lungs and relieving cough

Raw licoriceClear away heat and detoxifyIt has a particularly prominent effect on sore throat and mouth and tongue sores. Modern research shows that its active ingredients can inhibit bacteria and viruses and reduce inflammatory reactions. At the same time, raw licoriceMoisten the lungs and relieve coughThe effect is suitable for dry cough with less phlegm or dry cough. It is often combined with almonds and platycodon to enhance the effect. For example, the "Platycodon Tang" in "Treatise on Febrile Diseases" uses licorice as the main medicine and is used to treat lung abscess. In addition, its sweetness can mask the bitter taste, improve the taste of traditional Chinese medicine, and improve patient compliance.

Harmonizing medicinal properties and regulating the spleen and stomach

Raw licorice is often used as a "mixer" in prescriptions.Mitigating drug toxicity or potency, such as aconite, aconite, etc. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that its sweet and soothing properties can neutralize the strong and powerful medicinal properties and protect the spleen and stomach. For fatigue and loss of appetite caused by weak spleen and stomach, raw licorice can replenish the vital energy and is often used together with Codonopsis pilosula and Atractylodes macrocephala. It should be noted that its "slow" properties may delay the absorption of certain drugs. For example, when combined with laxatives, the dosage needs to be adjusted. The following table lists common compatibility combinations and functions:

Contraindications and precautions for use

Although raw licorice is relatively safe,More than 10 grams per day for a long timeEdema or blood pressure fluctuations may occur due to water and sodium retention. People with high blood pressure and renal insufficiency should use it with caution. In addition, its ingredients may interfere with hormone metabolism, so pregnant and lactating women should consult a physician. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that "sweetness makes people feel full", and it should not be used alone for those with dampness and abdominal distension. It is recommended to adjust the usage according to physical constitution and condition. For example, external use as a mouthwash can reduce systemic side effects.

Summary: Reasonable application to maximize value

Raw licorice is a classic medicinal material that has the same origin as medicine and food. It has both therapeutic and harmonious effects. From relieving acute cough to chronic spleen and stomach conditioning, its application needs to combine individual differences and compatibility principles. When used correctly, it can not only exert its "national old" (Tao Hongjing calls licorice the "king of all medicines") synergistic effects, but also avoid adverse reactions. In daily health care, a small amount can be soaked in water for drinking, but the therapeutic use still requires professional guidance to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Quote sources:

1. "Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China" 2020 Edition

2. Li Shizhen's "Compendium of Materia Medica"

3. Zhang Zhongjing's "Treatise on Febrile Diseases"