Licorice Health Benefits
When you talk about retro candy and memories of that good old candy store you used to frequent as a kid, your story isn’t complete without mentioning licorice. Licorice has definitely been a huge hit with sweet tooth lovers all over the world and from generation to generation. Whether you’re shopping at a retro retail or wholesale candy store, licorice is something that won’t be out of the picture. And rightly so because this candy, which is actually a vine, doesn’t just taste good. It’s incredibly healthy too.
Although licorice is more popular as a candy, it is quite impressive as a health food. One of its best-known benefits is the relief it provides for many respiratory conditions, from the classic cold and sore throat to tuberculosis. This ability of the vine has something to do with its tendency to promote coughing, which is why it is a staple ingredient in many cough expectorants. Apart from that, it is also a laxative and has an incredible ability to fight gastric, stomach and mouth ulcers, as well as the viruses responsible for shingles and herpes.
Women of past centuries also relied on licorice to alleviate the symptoms of PMS and menopause, thanks to its contributions of isoflavones that have estrogenic or anti-estrogenic effects. These vines may even promote a regular heartbeat with their ability to counteract the effects of having too much potassium in your blood which can cause heart problems.
The vine’s antispasmodic property is particularly useful for people with stomach and intestinal problems, as well as those battling cancer, heart disease, hepatitis B and C, and even HIV. Additionally, it can prevent hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis by dissolving cholesterol deposits. It is even said to be a great fat burner, making it one of the safest and most effective ways to lose weight.
While licorice sounds like the magic herb that can solve almost all of the world’s health problems, it is not recommended for people with high blood pressure and kidney disease. It also doesn’t come without the usual risks of overconsumption. Like any other good thing in the world, it should be taken in moderation, whether as retro sweets or healthy food.