Licorice has been found in the tombs of ancient Egyptian pharaohs. It was used to treat many illnesses, but mainly was used as a tonic and cold remedy.
Licorice is one of the mainstays of traditional Chinese medicine and has been used for over 3,000 years as a tonic to rejuvenate the heart and spleen, and as a treatment for ulcers, cold symptoms, and skin disorders. Recently, a sample of historic licorice from 756 A.D. was analyzed and found to still have active principles even after a century. 1
Modern herbalists commonly utilize licorice in treating adrenal insufficiencies such as
hypoglycemia and Addison's disease, counteracting stress, and in purifying the liver and bloodstream. In combination with other herbs it is recommended as a demulcent to soother mucous membranes, and as an expectorant useful in treating flu, colds, respiratory disorders and bronchitis.