What makes licorice flavor

Eating the old fashioned treat has been linked to an irregular heart rhythm and arrhythmia. So what exactly is in black licorice that makes it so polarizing and potentially dangerous? Jaffe explained that licorice has been around for thousands of years and is native to Southern Europe and Asia. Other candies of similar form use the name as well, but are not actually flavored with licorice extract.

Having a healthy gut and intestinal tract helps move waste out efficiently, reducing bloating and the uncomfortable effects of constipation. Licorice is a very controversial plant, famed both for its health benefits and infamous for its health dangers.

Aside from the popular black candy, licorice is most commonly used as a digestive aid. Throughout history, people have turned to licorice to help calm heartburn, soothe ulcers, ease food poisoning, and simply as a digestif after a big meal.

Licorice root also helps your body produce clean, healthy mucus , which sounds gross but is very important for your respiratory system.

Throughout history, licorice root tea was a popular cure-all beverage in ancient Egypt, and later in China as well. More recently, the medical community has started prescribing an extract as an easy way to dose safe amounts of the glycyrrhizic acid , the medicinal component of licorice. Some research suggests that there are over compounds that have medicinal properties, primarily antimicrobial and antiviral. With this vast number of nutrients, the health benefits probably go well beyond what science has currently discovered.

In extreme cases, licorice root can deplete your body of potassium , causing weakness in your muscles and potential disruptions to your metabolism. It can also increase your blood pressure and may even lead to irregular heartbeats.

Because of its many medicinal properties, you can find licorice root conveniently packaged in tablets , either chewable or capsules you swallow whole, in addition to the more traditional powdered form , extract , or as a loose herb.

The tablets are fairly self-explanatory, and the extract should be used as directed. Many people add it to a drink or place a few drops under their tongue, but in a concentrated formula, you should ask the advice of your doctor. If you find yourself with the herbs, your best solution is to make it into a tea.

Licorice powder , like our favorite from Banyan Botanicals , is a popular way to purchase the plant if your primary concern is topical. You can blend it with your moisturizer, a gel, or a skin safe oil like coconut oil to rub over an affected area. If you do oil pulling for your oral health, you can also mix some powder in your oil for pulling. Licorice root has fantastic antibacterial properties which makes it effective for treating small skin wounds or conditions like eczema.

Some people even gargle with it to clear up oral infections and prevent decay. Politics Covid U. News World Opinion Business. Share this —. Follow NBC News. By Meghan Holohan.