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Zhi Gan Cao / Licorice Root, honey-baked
Zhi Gan Cao
Taste: Sweet • Temperature: Warm • Category: Tonic • Sub Category: Tonify Qi

Dosage

2-12g

Actions

1. Tonifies the Spleen & augments the qi: commonly used for Spleen deficiency with shortness of breath, lassitude, & loose stools. Also for qi or blood deficiency patterns with an irregular or intermittent pulse & /or palpitations.

2. Moistens the Lungs & stops coughing: for coughing & wheezing. Because of its neutral properties, it can be used for either heat or cold in the Lungs.

3. Clears heat & relieves fire toxicity: used raw for carbuncles, sores, or sore throat due to fire toxin. For this purpose, it can be taken internally or applied topically.

4. Moderates spasms & alleviates pain: for painful spasms of the abdomen or legs.

5. Moderates & harmonizes the characteristics of other herbs: by virtue of its sweet, neutral, & moderating properties, this herb moderates hot & cold herbs, & mitigates the violent properties of other herbs. Since it is said to enter all 12 primary channels, it can lead & conduct other herbs into the channels.

6. Used as an antidote for a variety of toxic substances, both internally & topically.

7. The raw root clears heat & relieves toxicity, the honey-fried tonifies the middle & moderates spasms.

Meridians

All 12 channels (principally the Heart, Lung, Spleen, & Stomach)

Cautions

Contraindicated in cases of excess dampness, nausea, or vomiting. May be in compatible with jing da ji, yuan hua, gan sui, & hai zao, & may antagonize yuan zhi. The toxicity of gan cao is very low, but if taken long-term it may cause hypertension &/or edema. Glycyrrhetinic acid has been reported to cause a reduction in the activity of the thyroid & a reducation in the basal metabolic rate.