Mention licorice and most people have visions of black and red candy. However, the licorice root is not a sweet confection. Licorice root has been used for hundreds of years as a medicinal agent. First discovered in Europe and Asia, the root is actually identified as a weed. Used by early Egyptians in a tea, it was considered a cure-all drink. China began importing the root and it was quickly added as a staple tea product in traditional chinese medicine.

There are a plethora of ailments for which licorice root tea can be used. According to many research studies, the root is beneficial in improving respiratory issues in the bronchial system. It helps stimulate the production of healthy mucus. Although it might seem strange to seek mucus production medicines with respiratory issues, the healthy mucus cleans out the old sticky mucus which is the culprit of many conditions.

Licorice root is also good for stress relief, soothing the stomach, augmenting cancer treatments and helping protect skin and teeth.

There are some side effects from drinking licorice root tea and some medication interactions. Remember to do your research or seek the assistance from a certified herbalist.