Licorice

This licorice is the source of most commercial licorice used in the making of candy and herb tea. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory for arthritis, gastritis and for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, also has a mild laxative action and is helpful for respiratory conditions. Its genus name is derived from the Greek for “sweet root” and it has has been used for centuries as a source of glycerine, a sweetener 50x sweeter than sugar. A component in many folk medicines, the earliest record of use of this plant medicinally is 2100 BC! It was the most prescribed herb in Ancient Egyptian, Roman, Greek, East China, and the West from the Former Han era. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Glycyrrhiza glabra is considered an “essential herbal medication.” According to a traditional Chinese medicine belief, “nine out of ten formulae contain licorice,” and licorice is one of the most effective herbal medicines for reducing toxicity and increasing the efficacy of other herbal medicines when used together.

It is naturally found along slow moving streams, sandy alluvial flats and ditches below 4,500 feet.

The plants are drought tolerant but benefit from consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage. Grow it in full sun to part shade, in a rich, loamy, sandy soil.

Harvest 3-year-old roots in autumn when the plants have finished flowering and the growing season is complete. Dig up the entire plant including the root and lift the whole plant from the ground using either a spade or garden fork. Cut the roots using garden shears; leave the tap root and a few of the main roots attached to the plant and replant it back in the garden.

Perennial hardy in zones 6-11.