Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Part Used Root
Main function Herb for Qi Defficiency (Qi Tonic)
Thermal qual. Neutral, or warm if roasted
Taste Sweet
Meridians Entered All 12 meridians, but especially Sp, Lu
Functions .
  • Tonifies Spleen and Qi, especially when roasted.
  • Moistens Lungs and stops coughing; can be used in both Heat and Cold syndromes.
  • Soothes throat
  • Detoxifies
  • Relieves spasms of abdomen and legs.
  • Harmonizes other herbs; used in lower doses for this purpose.
  • Cautions
  • Contraindicated in Excess Dampness.
  • Toxicity
  • Relatively safe, except for tendency to cause hypertension and edema when taken for extended periods of time
  • Phyto-chemicals
  • Glycyrrhizin, glycyrrhizic acid, glucoronic acid, isoflavones (in root skin)
  • Western Properties
  • Anti-inflammatory, expectorant, demulcent, tonic, anti-ulcer, mild laxative, hyperglycemic, estrogenic, reduces stomach acid secretion, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-tumor, interferon inducent, hepatoprotective, detoxifying action, adrenocortical hormonal action, anti-spasmodic, immune suppressing action, anti-allergic, hypertensive
  • Notes
  • Detoxifying action due to glucoronic acid
  • Increases retention of water and sodium, increases secretion of potassium (effective in treating Addisons disease and syncope)
  • Soothes urinary tract irritation

  • Copyright © 2001 John Freeman. All rights reserved.