Licorice Root

Glycyrrhiza glabra

Botanical Overview

Licorice root is one of the oldest and most universally used medicinal plants in human history, with a documented tradition spanning over 4,000 years. Native to the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Central Asia, this woody perennial shrub produces long, fibrous roots whose extraordinary natural sweetness comes from glycyrrhizin — a compound 30 to 50 times sweeter than table sugar. Ancient Egyptians treasured it so deeply that bundles of licorice root were found among the burial provisions of Tutankhamun. It appears in the earliest Chinese herbal pharmacopoeias as a "harmonizing herb," added to blends to balance and enhance the properties of other botanicals — a role it continues to play in herbal tea blending today. Greek physician Dioscorides prescribed it for thirst, hoarseness, and respiratory ailments. In Ayurveda it is known as yashtimadhu — "sweet stick" — and is valued for its ability to soothe, nourish, and restore. Beyond its sweetness, licorice root brings a remarkable range of wellness properties that make it one of the most multifaceted herbs in the herbal tea pantry.

Flavor Profile

Naturally and intensely sweet — no added sugar needed
Warm, smooth, and gently anise-like with a rounded, mellow finish
Softer and more complex than candy licorice — earthy and herbal beneath the sweetness
A natural sweetener and harmonizer that rounds out bitter or sharp notes in a blend
Pairs beautifully with peppermint, fennel, chamomile, ginger, and valerian root

Traditionally Used For

Soothing sore throats, hoarseness, and upper respiratory discomfort
Supporting digestive health and reducing heartburn and acid reflux
Adrenal support — traditionally used to ease fatigue and stress on the body
Anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties
Supporting liver health and gentle detoxification
Easing stomach ulcers and protecting the gut lining
Expectorant properties — helps loosen and clear mucus from the chest
Natural sweetener — reduces the need for added sweeteners in herbal blends

⚠️ Please note: Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which in large amounts or with prolonged daily use may raise blood pressure or affect potassium levels. It is not recommended for those who are pregnant, have high blood pressure, kidney disease, or are taking certain medications. Enjoyed in moderate amounts as part of a varied herbal tea routine, it is considered safe for most people. When in doubt, consult your healthcare provider.

Brewing Notes

Water temperature: 200–212°F / 93–100°C
Steep time: 5–10 minutes — longer steeping brings out deeper sweetness
Use ½–1 teaspoon of dried root per 8 oz of water
Its natural sweetness means most blends featuring licorice root need little or no added sweetener
Excellent as a base note in digestive, respiratory, and sleep-support blends
A small amount goes a long way — it will sweeten and smooth an entire blend

Teas Containing Licorice Root

Coming soon — we will list blends that feature licorice root here. In the meantime, you can browse our Herbal Teas.

The information provided is for educational purposes only and reflects traditional use. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use if you have any existing health conditions or are taking medications.