How Licorice Prevents Infection

Background

Some diseases are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungus and some other microorganisms. These diseases are infectious and they invade our immune system.

There are various ways and medicines to inhibit infections. Herbal remedies have been used for health problems since ancient times. There is a growing tendency to medicinal herbs recently. Licorice is considered one of these herbs.

Sepidan Osareh Jonoob Co. discusses how licorice prevents infection in our body.

What Is Infection?

The invasion and growth of some germs like bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microorganisms in body, is called infection. Fever and other health problems may occur due to infection but that depends on where infection is.

There are different kinds of bacterial and viral infections such as: short infection (like a common cold), chronic infection (it may last a longer time), latent infection (they are passive for a period of time until they become active).

 How Licorice Prevents Infection

Licorice extract prevents infection and contamination on the skin surface and keeps it clean. Licorice contains a substance which has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.

There is a component in licorice called glycyrrhizin, which is useful in treatment of stomach pain, indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux. It can be useful in treatment of bacterial and viral infections. Peptic ulcers in intestine and stomach are caused by inflammation with bacteria. H.pylori is the bacteria causing the inflammation that leads to peptic ulcers. The glycyrrhizin in licorice can heal the sores and H. pylori.

Some plants have been used for oral and dental health for a long period of time. Licorice is one of these plants. Since it has anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties, it is proper for dental diseases like: aphthous ulcers, gingivitis, dental caries, periodontitis. It prevents cavity and tooth decay by fighting against special bacteria.

Chinese research has shown that licorice root at least has two elements that have antiviral effects called: GL and GA. They weaken virus activities like virus gene and its replication. This plant also contains flavonoids that treat bacterial infections.

Thermal injuries (injuries caused by burn) are highly prone to infections. This infection in most cases leads to death. One study on mice showed that using licorice controls the progression of infection in these injuries.

Licorice Anti-Fungal Effects

Moreover, licorice stops the growth of fungus and is useful in treating fungal diseases. Licorice is used in anti-fungal drugs. One research showed that licorice compounds like glabridin and licochalcone A have anti-fungal activities. The results of this study suggest that licochalcone A and glabridin are helpful in treating C. albicans oral infections.

Written and Edited by: Meysam Shokripour

References : iranlicorice.com