You're enjoying a cup of sweet herbal tea or taking a common cough suppressant, but you don't realize there's an ancient and common ingredient hidden in these products – licorice。This natural ingredient, which is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine, Western medicine, and food, has a long history of use and many benefits, but it can be a hidden health risk for certain populations.
Licorice, the name may sound familiar and distant, but in reality, it is quietly hidden in many corners of our daily lives. From cough syrups to herbal teas, and even in some seemingly innocuous foods, licorice is everywhere. However, when it encounters specific health problems, such as increased blood pressure in the systemic arteries (hypertension), abnormal glucose metabolism (diabetes), or renal insufficiency, it can trigger unintended consequences.
Licorice, whose scientific name is licorice, is not only a common ingredient in confectionery and sweets, but also has a long history in medicine。Its main active ingredients are glycyrrhizin and liquiritin, which have anti-inflammatory, antiviral and liver-protective effects. Glycyrrhizic acid reduces inflammation and allergic reactions, while glycyrrhizin helps with repair and whitening. In addition, licorice also contains flavonoids, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Clinically, licorice is widely used in gastric ulcers, respiratory tract infections and other diseases. But it's important to note that licorice isn't a panacea. Some of its components may cause sodium and water retention and potassium loss in the body, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Therefore, people with elevated blood pressure in the systemic arteries, heart disease, or renal insufficiency should be cautious about using licorice-containing products.
Patients with elevated systemic arterial blood pressure:
The glycyrrhizic acid in licorice may cause sodium and water retention, which can increase blood pressure and increase the burden on the heart.
Patients with renal insufficiency:
The composition of licorice may increase the burden on the kidneys and affect kidney function.
Heart patients:
Because licorice may cause sodium and water retention, it may exacerbate the heart's workload after use in people with heart disease.
Pregnant and lactating women:
Pregnant and lactating women should avoid licorice-containing products that may affect the health of the fetus and baby.
Those suffering from hormone-related diseases:
Licorice may affect hormone balance and pose a risk to people with hormone-related diseases.
In life, we often inadvertently ingest foods and medicines that contain licorice. Therefore, the above-mentioned groups should pay special attention to the ingredient list and avoid products containing licorice when choosing foods and medicines. Licorice is generally safe for the general population, but long-term use in large quantities or for specific health conditions should still require medical advice. By being aware and vigilant, we can take advantage of the benefits of licorice more healthily while avoiding its potential risks.
Licorice, a widely used natural sweetener, is found not only in Chinese herbal medicine, but also in many everyday foods and medicines. However, licorice can cause adverse health effects in people with certain health conditions, such as increased blood pressure in the systemic arteries (hypertension) and abnormal glucose metabolism (diabetes). Therefore, it becomes crucial to learn to identify products that contain licorice.
The key to understanding the ingredients in licorice is to carefully check the ingredient label of the product. Licorice may appear under names such as "licorice root extract," "glycyrrhizic acid," or "glycyrrhizin." This ingredient is more common in pharmaceutical products, especially those used for gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory diseases, or as an herbal supplement. Licorice may also be found in foods, including desserts, tea drinks, candies, and some baked goods.
It's also important to know alternative names and forms of licorice ingredients. Licorice ingredients may be labeled as "natural sweeteners" or "plant-based sweeteners." In some Asian foods, licorice may come in the form of "licorice powder" or "glycyrrhiza glabra".
Licorice intake in moderation is safe for most people, but the key is "in moderation." It is important to know how to use licorice-containing products safely.
Control your intake: It is recommended that the daily intake of licorice should not exceed the recommended 10 grams for adults.
Precautions for patients with specific diseases: If there are diseases such as increased systemic arterial blood pressure, abnormal glucose metabolism or renal insufficiency, products containing licorice should be avoided as much as possible, or used under the guidance of a doctor.
Risks of long-term use: Long-term high use of licorice-containing products can lead to problems such as electrolyte imbalances and increased blood pressure, even in healthy adults.
Consult a medical professional: It is best to consult with a medical professional before starting any licorice-containing supplements or medications, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.
Remember, licorice is a powerful natural medicine that can provide health benefits when used correctly, but can be risky when abused. With these simple steps, you can be sure that you're using your licorice safely and wisely.