Glycyrrhiza uralensis

Glycyrrhiza uralensis
Family:Glycyrrhiza uralensis; Antiphlogistic; Antispasmodic; Antitussive; Cholagogue; Emollient; Expectorant.
Common name:Gan Cao
Gan Cao is commonly used in Chinese herbalism where it is considered to be one of the 50 fundamental herbs. It is considered to be second in importance only to Ginseng (Panax spp). Used in excess however it can cause cardiac dysfunction and severe hypertension. The root is a sweet tonic herb that stimulates the corticosteroidal hormones neutralizes toxins and balances blood sugar levels. It is also antibacterial anti-inflammatory antiphlogistic antispasmodic antitussive cholagogue demulcent emollient expectorant and laxative. It is used internally in the treatment of Addison's disease asthma coughs and peptic ulcers. Externally it is used to treat acne boils and sore throats. It is included in almost all Chinese herbal formulae where it is said to harmonize and direct the effects of the various ingredients. It precipitates many compounds and is therefore considered to be unsuitable for use with some herbs such as Daphne genkwa Euphorbia pekinensis and Corydalis solida. It increases the toxicity of some compounds such as ephedrine salicylates adrenaline and cortisone. It should not be prescribed for pregnant women or for people with high blood pressure kidney disease or anyone taking digoxin-based medications. Excessive doses cause water retention and high blood pressure. It can cause impotence in some people. The roots are harvested in early autumn preferably from plants 3- 4 years old and is dried for later use. The flowers are alterative and expectorant.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 03:30 []