There are several ways to obtain the benefits of licorice for our health, here are some of them.
Liquid extract
Licorice extract is its most common and most widely used form. Used as a natural sweetener in sweets and beverages, the consumption of licorice extract should not exceed 30 mg / ml. Eating more could lead to unwanted side effects, as the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned.
Dust
Licorice powder can be purchased at health food stores and specialty stores online. It can be combined with a gel base to create a topical ointment that helps treat the skin. In its powdered form, licorice is especially helpful in treating eczema and acne. The powder can also be ingested orally. Always remember that the recommended dose of this root is less than 75 mg / day, according to the WHO guidelines.
Infusions and teas
The leaves of the licorice plant, dried and crushed, have become a popular herbal tea. These infusions can be purchased in supermarkets and herbalists. They are used to promote digestive function, treat respiratory problems, and promote adrenal gland health. When you see herbal teas that are cited as aids for “bronchial wellness” and “cleansing and detoxification,” they generally contain forms of licorice. It is not recommended that individuals ingest more than 8 ounces of licorice tea daily.
Preparing a licorice infusion to satisfy hunger
Thanks to the active ingredient present in this root, called glycyrrhizin , we can deal with a large number of problems, including overweight and hunger, glycyrrhizin can contribute to the reduction of body fat and also appetite. For its consumption these two simple options are mentioned:
Ingredients :
- Licorice powder, 4 to 5 teaspoons
- 1 liter of water
This infusion is prepared like any other, first we will need to have the liter of boiled water, and later the tablespoons of licorice are added, we let it infuse for about 10 to 15 minutes so that all its properties are released and we will have our tea ready. Do not exceed your consumption, you can start with one cup a day, and not exceed 2 cups a day.
Another alternative to satisfy your hunger and without adding calories , and also to make your cravings for empty calorie meals go away, is the consumption of a sprig of licorice, always keep in mind that you should not consume more than 75 mg a day, than Otherwise it can have negative effects on the body.
Possible side effects
Too much Licorice Root Extract can lead to low potassium levels in the body, which causes muscle weakness. This condition is called hypokalemia . In studies where subjects ingested too much licorice root in a two-week period, metabolism and fluid retention abnormalities occurred. So you must be careful with its excessive consumption.
Women who are pregnant or lactating are advised by the FDA to avoid licorice in all its forms. People with hypertension should also avoid the use of this root.