You probably tried black licorice when you were a kid, and either loved it or hated it. Its sweet taste is distinct and has similar flavouring to fennel or anise. In fact, licorice candy often contains less licorice extract and more anise flavouring, but it's the extract - the remnants of boiled licorice root - that has many health benefits.In Chinese medicine, licorice root is considered to have strong anti-inflammatory properties and is atreatment of a variety of illnesses, from stomach ulcers to diabetes. It is used to soothe coughs and sore throats, control blood sugar, balance hormones, heal cold sores, and treat eczema, asthma, flu, herpes, and hepatitis. Its also popularly used as a natural laxative, so it can help with constipation, and as an aid for digestive problems. According to the medical journal, Nutrition and Cancer , substances in licorice may even protect against carcinogen-induced DNA. Furthermore, research suggests that it may help inhibit tumor formations and kill cancer cells.
