How to Use Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

1. As a Tea (Traditional Way)
   • How:
   • Simmer about 1 teaspoon of dried licorice root in a small pot with 1 cup of water.
   • Let it gently boil for 5–10 minutes to extract the beneficial compounds.
   • Strain and sip warm.

Taste: naturally sweet, so you usually don’t need to add honey or sweeteners.

•   When:
•   In the morning or early afternoon (it can slightly energize you).
•   Short-term use: usually for 2–3 weeks at a time.

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2. In Herbal Blends

Licorice root is often blended with other herbs like:
• Nettle, ginger, chamomile, or holy basil.
• It enhances the flavor and improves the effects (especially calming the gut and boosting adrenal recovery).

Example:
A tea mix of nettle + licorice + ginger would be perfect for calming inflammation and supporting thyroid function.

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3. As a Tincture (Extracted Drops)
   • Concentrated licorice root tinctures are available in health shops.
   • Usually you take 10–30 drops in water, once or twice daily.
   • Best used under guidance if you want stronger adrenal or immune system support.

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Why Use Licorice Root for Immunity and Thyroid?
• Boosts cortisol gently when your adrenal glands are exhausted (adrenal fatigue often happens with Hashimoto’s).
• Protects gut lining (important if you have leaky gut, common in autoimmunity).
• Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory — calming autoimmune flares.
• Soothes respiratory issues — if you easily get colds, coughs, or throat inflammation.

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Important Cautions with Licorice Root
• Don’t use long-term without breaks (it can raise blood pressure if used too much).
• Best used in cycles: 2–3 weeks on, then at least 1 week off.
• Avoid if you have high blood pressure, heart issues, or severe kidney conditions — unless approved by your doctor.

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Quick Licorice Root Healing Tea Recipe

Ingredients:
• 1 teaspoon dried licorice root
• 1 teaspoon dried nettle leaf
• 1 slice of fresh ginger (optional)
• 2 cups water

Instructions:
1. Bring water to a gentle boil.
2. Add the licorice, nettle, and ginger.
3. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Strain and drink warm.

Use:
• 1–2 cups per day for immune support, gut healing, and thyroid energy.