Weakness, cough and shortness of breath? Why not try this herb?
The pharmacological actions of “Zhi Gan Cao” are diverse. When using it, attention should be paid to dosage and administration. It is advisable to use it under the guidance of a doctor according to one’s own symptoms to avoid adverse consequences from self-medication.
“Zhi Gan Cao” named for the process of roasting licorice with fire, refers to the dried roots and rhizomes of leguminous plants such as Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Glycyrrhiza inflata, or Glycyrrhiza glabra. It is harvested in spring and autumn, the roots are cleaned, and then it is sun-dried. After honey-roasting, it appears as slices with a circular or elliptical shape. The outer surface is reddish-brown or grayish-brown with a slight gloss. The cut surface ranges from yellow to deep yellow, with clear concentric circles and radial lines. It has a slight stickiness, a distinctive aroma after roasting, and a sweet taste. In traditional Chinese medicine, it holds significant importance and finds wide applications.
What are the functions of “Zhi Gan Cao”?
- Tonifying the Spleen and Stomach: The spleen and stomach are crucial for the digestive system. When their functions are compromised, issues like poor digestion and loss of appetite may arise. “Zhi Gan Cao,” prepared by roasting licorice with honey, contains components such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and amino acids. It enhances the digestive function of the spleen and stomach, improving appetite and promoting the digestion and absorption of food.
- Relieving Cough: Rich in mucilage, it forms a protective film in the respiratory tract, providing moisturization and acting as an expectorant. Additionally, “Zhi Gan Cao” can alleviate asthma and disperse accumulation, demonstrating efficacy in lung-related conditions such as coughs and asthma.
- Diuretic and Anti-swelling: “Zhi Gan Cao” has a diuretic effect, aiding the body in eliminating excess water and reducing edema.
- Anti-inflammatory: It contains active ingredients like glycyrrhizin and liquiritin, which can inhibit the release of inflammatory factors, exerting effective anti-inflammatory effects.
- Enhancing Immunity: “Zhi Gan Cao” can inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria. The glycyrrhizic acid it contains can regulate the immune system, helping to enhance the body’s immunity and prevent diseases effectively.
- Soothing the Liver and Calming the Mind: According to Chinese medicine, the liver governs emotional balance. When there is stagnation of liver qi, symptoms such as emotional instability, irritability, and anxiety may occur. “Zhi Gan Cao” can soothe liver qi, stabilize emotions, and have a calming effect.
- Anti-ulcer: It protects the gastric mucosa, increases the secretion of gastric mucus, forms a protective film, and reduces the damage caused by gastric acid. Moreover, “Zhi Gan Cao” can promote the repair and regeneration of the gastric mucosa, providing auxiliary effects in cases of ulcers.
The pharmacological actions of “Zhi Gan Cao” are diverse. When using it, attention should be paid to dosage and administration. It is advisable to use it under the guidance of a doctor according to one’s own symptoms to avoid adverse consequences from self-medication.
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