Wild Licorice / Gan Cao 8oz

【Benefits】

In traditional Chinese medicine, licorice slices are highly valued for their effects of replenishing spleen qi, clearing heat and detoxifying, relieving cough and reducing phlegm, alleviating spasms and pain, and harmonizing various herbs. It effectively improves symptoms such as fatigue and poor appetite due to spleen deficiency, sore throat and oral ulcers caused by heat toxins, cough with phlegm, and gastrointestinal spastic pain. From a modern research perspective, it contains bioactive components such as glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid, which have anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, immunomodulatory, and liver-protective effects. Its compound preparations (e.g., compound licorice tablets) may contain antitussive and expectorant ingredients, synergistically relieving respiratory discomfort.

【Nicknames】

Guolao, Sweet Grass, Ural Licorice, Liquorice, Mi Gan, Meicao

【Properties and Tastes】

Tastes sweet; neutral in nature; enters the Heart, Lung, Spleen, and Stomach meridians

【Medicinal Components & Effects】

Licorice slices are rich in active components. Glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid are core components, exerting potent anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and liver-protective effects by inhibiting inflammatory mediators and regulating immune function. Flavonoids in licorice have antioxidant and free-radical scavenging abilities, helping to reduce oxidative damage. When processed into compound preparations (e.g., compound licorice tablets), they may contain ingredients like opium powder (for antitussive action, with dependence risk), camphor, and star anise oil, which synergistically relieve cough, reduce inflammation, and protect mucous membranes.

【Storage Methods】

• Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place (temperature 10-15℃, humidity below 60%), away from direct sunlight and high humidity to prevent mold, insect infestation, and loss of efficacy.
• Use airtight containers like glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags. After opening, seal promptly to avoid moisture absorption and oxidation of active components.
• Keep away from odorous substances to prevent flavor and efficacy alteration; avoid storing with strong oxidants.
• Regularly check for mold, discoloration, or unusual odors; discard immediately if any spoilage is found.