Licorice preparations are widely used to treat many ailments. For what diseases is licorice root used? How to properly dose licorice syrup for adults and children? Can licorice be used for pregnant women? Contraindications and cosmetic procedures with licorice root. All these issues are covered in this article.

What is licorice?

Licorice smooth(Glycerrhiza glabra) is a plant of the legume family with a powerful root system. The sweet root has many names: licorice root, liquorice, licorice, licorice, verbets licorice.

Licorice root has been used in medicine since ancient times. Traditional Chinese medical practice uses licorice in the form of extracts, lozenges, syrups, decoctions, and even fresh liquorice to loosen the crushed roots.

Licorice root: medicinal properties and contraindications

• Licorice is used in traditional and folk medicine to eliminate coughs, allergic manifestations, and a mild laxative. Herbalists use licorice complex powders to treat colds and get rid of hemorrhoids.
• The crushed powder is used to adjust the taste of dosage forms, giving them a pleasant sweetish aftertaste. A weak diuretic effect is used in complex diuretic preparations.

Licorice provides a healing effect on the body, thanks to the complex of active ingredients inherent only in this plant.

1. The anti-inflammatory effect is due to the content glycerrhizin, which has properties similar to the biologically active hormone of a steroid nature - cortisone.
2. The expectorant effect is manifested by increasing the secretion of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract.
3. The substances of licorice root have an estrogenic effect.
4. The antispasmodic effect is due to flavone substances. They widen the lumen of the bronchi and relieve coughing.
5. Licorice roots have a mild laxative effect.
6. Licorice has a protective function: ingestion of the roots induces the secretion of mucus, which protects the cellular epithelium and prevents ulcers.

Along with the beneficial properties, licorice root has a number of serious contraindications.

1. Taking licorice medications can cause swelling and high blood pressure. Patients with hypertension are prohibited from taking drugs with licorice root.
2. Glycyrrhizic acid, included in licorice root, upsets the electrolyte balance in the body. There is a leaching of K, which is necessary for the work of the heart muscle - the myocardium. Lack of K in the body can lead to cardiac arrhythmias.
3. Taking diuretic herbs and pills with medications containing licorice together can provoke a serious disorder in the body - rhabdomyolysis... This syndrome can cause muscle tissue breakdown, an increase in myoglobin (a protein in skeletal muscle), and lead to kidney failure.
4. Long-term use of licorice medications can cause testosterone levels to drop.

Licorice syrup - instructions for use for adults

Licorice root syrup belongs to the over-the-counter expectorant group. It is used for all types of bronchitis and bronchial asthma, tracheitis, cough with pneumonia and other types of colds.

The dosage form is a dark brown syrup, sweet taste with a characteristic odor. 100 ml of syrup contains:

• licorice root extract - 4 g
• sugar syrup - 86 g
• ethyl alcohol 96% and water up to 100 ml

The instruction for the syrup has a number of contraindications:

• intolerance to individual ingredients of the dosage form
• gastrointestinal diseases at the time of exacerbation
• pregnancy and breastfeeding
• arterial hypertension
• hypokalemia

IMPORTANT: Patients with diabetes should be aware that licorice syrup contains a large amount of sugar.

Licorice syrup - instruction for children

Licorice syrup in children's practice is used as an expectorant with difficult sputum discharge in the complex therapy of infectious inflammatory processes of the respiratory tract. The syrup is prescribed for all types of bronchitis, tracheitis, bronchopneumonia.

IMPORTANT: Liquorice syrup contains alcohol and sugar. This should be taken into account if the child has diabetes mellitus and is prone to allergies. The presence of alcohol can negatively affect the health of the baby if the dosage of the medication is incorrect.

The course of syrup treatment is determined by the doctor. If necessary, a second course is possible. For better sputum discharge during treatment, it is recommended to drink plenty of warm drinks. Licorice syrup is applied after meals.

Failure to comply with the dosage can cause the child:

• allergies
• dyspepsia
• nausea

Licorice root: from what cough?

• Licorice root has an expectorant effect when secretions are difficult to pass. Glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhizic acid salts act on the ciliated epithelium of the bronchi, accelerating the secretory motility of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract.
• Flavone glycosides relieve spasms of bronchial smooth muscles. In addition, glycyrrhizic acid has anti-inflammatory effects. 7-10 days of treatment helps release phlegm, improves airway motility and relieves inflammation.

Licorice syrup - how to take a cough: dosages

Annotation for the application requires the correct dosage of the dosage form. A single intake of syrup for adults and children of different age categories is different. As a rule, a dosing spoon is included in the package with the medicine for convenient metering of the medicine.

Doses for adults:

1 dessert spoon (10 ml) is dissolved in 1/2 glass of water. It is taken 3 times a day. The treatment is 7-10 days.

Doses for children:

• children under 2 years old - 1-2 drops of syrup are diluted in a teaspoon of water, taken 3 times a day
• children from 2 to 12 years old - dilute 1/2 teaspoon of syrup in 1/4 cup of water, take 3 times a day
• children over 12 years old - dilute 1 teaspoon of syrup in 1/2 glass of water, take 3 times a day

IMPORTANT: Licorice syrup is prescribed for children after 12 months.

Cleansing lymph with licorice and enterosgel: reviews of doctors

• Healthy lymph flow is essential for the normal functioning of the body. The elimination of toxins accumulated as a result of the vital activity of fungi, bacteria, the use of drugs is a necessary process that affects human health.
• The accumulation of poisons in the intercellular fluid with insufficient outflow of lymph leads to serious diseases. Immunity depends on the work of the lymph, and as a result - susceptibility to a particular disease.
• Recently, there have been many publications on how to clear lymph with licorice root and an enterosorbent drug Enterosgel.
• The mechanism of cleansing the lymphatic system works as follows: licorice activates the lymph flow and reduces the viscosity of the lymph, and Enterosgel adsorbs toxins and removes them from the body.

1. A tablespoon of chopped licorice is steamed with 250 ml of boiling water.
2. The infusion is prepared in a steam bath for 30 minutes over a slow flame.
3. The resulting decoct is cooled, filtered and added with water to the 250 ml mark.
4. The infusion is drunk in 5 tablespoons five times a day, alternating with reception. Enterosgel: 1 tablespoon of gel or paste is taken half an hour after the decoction.
5. It is recommended to take food no earlier than an hour after taking Enterosgel.

14 days is the best course for cleansing lymph. Contraindications for treatment are:

• children's age category
• pregnancy and breastfeeding
• chronic heart disease

IMPORTANT: Before the procedure for cleansing the lymph, you should definitely consult your doctor if you have a history of chronic diseases.

The doctors' comments on cleansing the lymphatic system are ambiguous, but they have a number of general recommendations:

• The lymphatic system is very important for humans and needs to be cleansed. Lymph is a natural filter for binding accumulated toxins.
• The lymph flow should be cleaned after antibiotic therapy and intensive courses of drugs, food poisoning and chemical reagents.
• Before cleaning the lymphatic system, you should consult a doctor and outline an algorithm of actions with him.
• You should adjust your diet and water regime: small portions of food 5-6 times a day and intake of 1.5-2 liters of clean water daily.
• A few weeks before the cleanse, the liver should be prepared to remove toxins. The use of Milk Thistle, Allohol and other choleretic agents will help to activate the liver.

IMPORTANT: Chronic diseases of the kidneys, liver and bile ducts are a contraindication for cleansing the lymph.

Lymph cleaning with licorice and activated carbon: reviews

Activated carbon - excellent adsorbent, which can be found on the counter of every pharmacy. It can also be used in lymph cleansing techniques along with licorice root.

1. A tablespoon of licorice syrup is diluted in 200 ml of hot water and drunk in the morning on an empty stomach.
2. An hour later, you should take activated charcoal in a dosage: 1 tablet (0.25 g) per 10 kg of body weight. Other sorbents can also be used: Sorbex, Enterosgel, Polysorb, Polyphepan, Entegnin, Filtrum-STI.
3. After 1.5-2 hours, you should have breakfast with porridge made from any cereal.

IMPORTANT: Absorbent medicine must be taken with at least one glass of water.

The course of treatment is two weeks.

A lot of opinions and assessments of this method of cleansing lymph have appeared on the Internet. Let's formulate the most common reviews.

• At the beginning of treatment, many people note signs of exacerbations of many diseases: nasal discharge, allergic rashes, edema, lacrimation appear.
• After a course of cleansing lymph, there is an improvement in complexion, chronic cough and runny nose disappear, skin rash and other allergic manifestations disappear. In general, there is an improvement in the state of health.

Licorice root during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a crucial period in the life of the expectant mother. Pregnant women should not self-administer treatment without the knowledge of their doctor. Even herbal medicines can be unsafe for the pregnancy and the health of the unborn baby.

IMPORTANT: Pregnant women and nursing mothers should refrain from taking medications containing licorice root in various dosage forms: decoctions, syrups, tablets, lozenges and cough drops.

So, the glycoside glycyrrhizin or glycyrrhizic acid contained in licorice root promotes fluid retention. And this is the risk of edema and an increase in blood pressure. Licorice root can increase estrogen levels and disrupt hormonal balance.

Licorice tincture - application

Tincture of licorice roots in alcohol is widely used in folk medicine. The range of use of alcoholic extract of licorice is very wide.

• Licorice tincture is an excellent immunomodulator. The active components of the roots enhance the movement of lymph and its cleansing properties.
• Alcohol extract is a good expectorant that helps to remove viscous secretions.
• The drug has an anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscles of the bronchi, relieves coughing and relieves pain during coughing attacks.
• The tincture is used as a mild laxative for constipation.
• It is used in cosmetology to cleanse and whiten the skin from age spots, relieve itchy scalp and skin.

Making a tincture from licorice root is not difficult at all.

1. A tablespoon of chopped licorice roots is poured into 75 ml of vodka.
2. The tincture is tightly sealed and placed in a dark place for two weeks.
3. Then it is filtered into a dark glass bottle.
4. Take 30 drops 2 times a day before meals for 10-14 days.

IMPORTANT: Tincture has the same contraindications as all dosage forms containing licorice root. Therefore, before using it, you should consult your doctor for chronic ailments.

Licorice root tablets - application

Licorice root in the form of capsules and tablets is registered as dietary supplements on the Russian market. The biologically active food supplement contains approximately 400-450 mg of licorice in one capsule, depending on the manufacturer.

The drug in the form of capsules is convenient to dose and take even at work, in contrast to liquid dosage forms of licorice.

I take licorice capsules and tablets with the following indications:

• colds accompanied by cough with difficult sputum separation
• bronchial asthma and allergic manifestations
• arthritis
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: acidity, ulcerative processes of the stomach and duodenum, constipation
• eczema, neurodermatitis
• premenstrual syndrome

Capsules and tablets are taken according to the attached instructions. Usual prescription of the drug: 1-2 capsules 1-3 times a day

Licorice root in gynecology

• Licorice root has a pronounced estrogen-like effect and is widely used in gynecology for many diseases associated with a deficiency of the main female sex hormones - estrogen.
• Traditional medicine has long used licorice in the treatment of female infertility, menstrual irregularities, the treatment of PMS, androgenic activity and other female diseases.
• For the treatment of female diseases, licorice root is taken in the form of infusions, decoctions in pure form, as well as in complex medicinal preparations.

Lack of estrogen

• 1 tablespoon of licorice roots is steamed with a glass of boiling water and kept for 30 minutes in a water bath. The broth is infused for half an hour, filtered and added with water to 250 ml.
• Take 1-2 tablespoons 3-4 times a day 30 minutes before meals. Licorice broth should be taken in the first phase of the menstrual cycle from day 5 to the expected ovulation.

Collection for menopause

• calendula flowers - 15 g
• chopped licorice root - 15 g
• mallow flowers - 10 g
• buckthorn bark - 15 g
• hernia herb - 10 g
• black elderberry flowers - 15 g
• anise fruit - 15 g
• violets tricolor flowers - 15 g
• steel root - 15 g

2 tablespoons of tea are steamed with 5oo ml of boiling water and wrapped for half an hour. Tea should be drunk during the day, divided into equal volumes.

Tea for amenorrhea

1. Licorice root, juniper fruits, yarrow, the herb of odorous rue and St. John's wort are mixed equally.
2. 10 g of tea is steamed with 200 ml of boiling water and kept for a steam bath for half an hour.
3. The norm of medicinal tea is 2 cups in a warm form daily for 30 days.

Hyperandrogenism

• licorice root - 3 parts
• shepherd's bag - 1 part
• rose hips - 3 parts
• thyme - 1 part
• mint leaf - 1 part
• hawthorn fruit - 3 parts
• black currant leaf - 4 parts
• goose feet (cuffs) sheet - 3 parts

A tablespoon of the collection is steamed in a thermos flask with a glass of boiling water. Strain in the morning and take in equal small portions throughout the day. The course of treatment is 2-3 months.

Licorice for diabetes

German scientists have discovered substances in licorice that are able to regulate metabolic disorders in the body and fight against grade II diabetes. Amorphrutins are able to reduce blood sugar, are well tolerated by patients without side effects.

Currently, drugs are being developed based on these substances isolated from licorice roots. Licorice is part of the antidiabetic fees.

Antidiabetic tea

• licorice - 1 part
• burdock root - 2 parts
• blueberry leaf - 8 parts
• elecampane root - 2 parts
• dandelion root - 1 part
• sash beans - 6 parts

A tablespoon of the collection is steamed with 200 ml of boiling water. Tea is drunk during the day in small portions.

Tea for diabetes, developed by the First Moscow State Medical University. Sechenov

Herbal ingredients are taken in equal parts:

• licorice roots
• yarrow herb
• blueberry leaves and shoots
• elecampane rhizome
• bean sash
• St. John's wort
• rose hip
• motherwort grass
• nettle leaf
• marigold flowers
• plantain leaf
• chamomile flowers

10 g of tea is steamed with 500 ml of boiling water. Drink 1/2 cup before meals 2-3 times a day. Herbal tea is taken for 30 days. After two weeks, treatment can be continued.

Licorice in cosmetology for the skin of the face from pigmentation

Licorice root is used in cosmetology to whiten the skin of the face and remove age spots. Glabridin, isolated from licorice roots, not only brightens the skin, but also restores its natural pigment. To prepare whitening lotion you should:

1. Pour a teaspoon of finely chopped licorice root with 50 ml of vodka
2. Cork the tincture tightly and put out of the sun for two weeks
3. Strain the solution and dilute with boiled water to 250 ml

The resulting infusion should be wiped on the face until the age spots are lightened.

Licorice root for hair

Licorice is widely used for hair strengthening and loss in masks, lotions, natural shampoos. Substances from licorice extract eliminate inflammation of the hair follicles, improve their blood supply.

Hair becomes thicker and stops falling out. The improvement of the hair structure can be observed after a course of masks, which should be done twice a week for a month.

Mask for damaged hair with licorice

1. Warm up 200 ml of milk.
2. Add a full tablespoon of finely chopped licorice root and 1/4 spoonful of saffron.
3. The mixture is thoroughly mixed. You can use a blender to do this.
4. The mask is applied to the hair, covered with a cap and tied with a towel.
5. After 3 hours, the hair is washed with warm water.

Licorice root: analogues

The licorice root has analogs of plant origin in action. These funds have expectorant properties and contribute to better evacuation of phlegm from the respiratory tract.

• Mother and stepmothers sheet
• Violets tricolor herb
• Oregano herb
• Elecampane rhizome
• Marshmallow root

Does licorice actually cause cancer?

• Ancient Chinese physicians have long used licorice root against tumors of various etiologies. Recent advances by American scientists have proven the effective effect of licorice on cancer cells.
• The studies were carried out on malignant tumors of the prostate gland in men and the mammary gland in women. Cancer cells were exposed to a licorice extract prepared using a special technology.
• The positive dynamics of the action of the drug at the initial stage of the diseased gives the right to draw a conclusion about the destructive effect of licorice on cancerous tumors.

In this article, you can read the instructions for using the medicinal product. Liquorice root... The reviews of site visitors - consumers of this medicine, as well as opinions of doctors of specialists on the use of Licorice Root in their practice are presented. A big request to more actively add your reviews about the drug: whether the medicine helped or did not help get rid of the disease, what complications and side effects were observed, which may not have been declared by the manufacturer in the annotation. Analogs of Licorice Root in the presence of available structural analogs. Use for the treatment of cough with phlegm, gastritis and ulcers in adults, children, as well as during pregnancy and lactation. Composition of the preparation.

Liquorice root- herbal remedy. Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin (from 6 to 12%), glycyrrhizic acid and its salts, flavone glycosides (liquiditin, liquiditigenin, liquiditoside), isoflavonoids (formononetin, glabren, glabridin, glabrol, 3-hydroxyglabrol, glycyrrhizoflavone isoglycyrol, liquokoumarin), hydroxycoumarins (including herniarin, umbelliferone, glycocoumarin, lycopyranocoumarin), steroids (sterols, including beta-sitosterol, sigmasterol), essential oils (in small amounts).

Glycyrrhizin stimulates the activity of the ciliated epithelium and enhances the secretory function of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, facilitates expectoration. It has antiulcer and anti-inflammatory effects, reduces platelet aggregation.

Licorice inhibits the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in the kidneys, which leads to a decrease in the conversion of cortisol to cortisone. The mineralocorticoid activity of cortisol is due to a decrease in serum potassium concentration and an increase in sodium content, which leads to fluid retention in the body, an increase in body weight and arterial hypertension. Glycyrrhizic acid and its metabolites inhibit peripheral cortisol metabolism and cause a pseudoaldosterone-like effect.

Liquiritoside has an antispasmodic effect on smooth muscles.

Compound

Licorice roots (licorice naked and licorice Ural roots with underground shoots) + auxiliary substances.

Indications

• diseases of the upper respiratory tract, lungs (cough with sputum with bronchitis, laryngitis, pneumonia);
• hyperacid gastritis;
• peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum;
• Addison's disease;
• hypofunction of the adrenal cortex (as part of complex therapy).

Forms of issue

Chopped vegetable raw materials (dry licorice root).

The extract is thick.

Instructions for use and dosage regimen

Syrup

Inside, for adults 1 dessert spoon in 1/2 glass of water 3 times a day. Children under 2 years old - as many drops as a child years old several times a day, 2-12 years old - 1/2 teaspoon in 1/4 glass of water, over 12 years old - 1 teaspoon 3 times a day , the duration of the course is 7-10 days.

Dry root

The prepared infusion (10-15 g of raw materials per 200 ml of water) is taken orally 1 tablespoon 3-5 times a day.

Side effect

• increased blood pressure;
• the appearance of edema;
• violations of the reproductive system.

Contraindications

• chronic hepatitis;
• liver disease with cholestasis;
• cirrhosis of the liver;
• severe renal failure;
• diabetes;
• heart rhythm disturbances;
• arterial hypertension;
• hypokalemia;
• pregnancy;
• hypersensitivity to licorice.

Application during pregnancy and lactation

Licorice preparations are contraindicated for use during pregnancy.

Application in children

It is possible to use the drug in children at age-specific dosages.

special instructions

With prolonged use, hypokalemia, hypernatremia, edema, arterial hypertension, functional disorders of the heart are possible.

It is not used to treat dry coughs, as it has an expectorant effect.

Drug interactions

Hypokalemia caused by prolonged use of licorice can potentiate the toxic effect of cardiac glycosides.

With the simultaneous use of licorice and glucocorticosteroids (GCS), an increase in the half-life of cortisol is possible.

Analogues of the medicinal product Licorice root

Structural analogues for the active substance:

• Licorice root briquette round;
• Licorice root syrup;
• Licorice syrup;
• Licorice extract is thick;
• Licorice extract dry;
• Licorice root extract is thick.

Analogues for the therapeutic effect (agents for the treatment of bronchitis):

• Azitral;
• Ambroxol;
• Amoxicillin;
• Ampicillin;
• Ascoril is an expectant;
• Bactrim;
• Bioline Cold;
• Biseptol;
• Bromhexine;
• Bronchalamin;
• Bronchicum;
• Bronchipret;
• Bronchodilator;
• Bronhosan;
• Vibramycin;
• GeloMyrtol;
• Mustard plaster;
• Chest fee;
• Breast elixir;
• Grunamycin syrup;
• Grunamox;
• Dexamethasone;
• Doxycycline;
• Zitrolide;
• Zitrolide forte;
• IRS 19;
• Carbocisteine;
• Clarithromycin;
• Klacid;
• Clindamycin;
• Codefront;
• Coldrex broncho;
• Linkas;
• Mukaltin;
• Mucosol;
• Oxamp;
• Oletetrin;
• Ospamox;
• Expectorant collection;
• Ofloxacin;
• Paxeladine;
• Pulmex;
• Rulid;
• Salbutamol;
• Sextaphagus;
• Solutan;
• Sumamed;
• Travisil;
• Tusuprex;
• Umckalor;
• Fluifort;
• Fluditek;
• Hemomycin;
• Cefazolin;
• Cephalexin;
• Ceftriabol;
• Erespal;
• Erythromycin Phosphate;
• Hermitsed.

In the absence of analogues of the drug for the active substance, you can follow the links below to the diseases for which the corresponding drug helps, and see the available analogues for the therapeutic effect.

Syrup of licorice or licorice - one of the most ancient and unusual medicinal plants - is a wonderful medicinal mixture, full of useful properties and pleasant taste.

Since ancient times, healers have used remedies from licorice root to treat many pathological conditions - from coughing and constipation to removing worms and strengthening the body. Modern doctors confirm the effectiveness of this natural remedy and successfully prescribe licorice in the form of a syrup for the treatment of patients of different age groups.

The medicinal form of licorice root syrup looks like a chocolate-colored liquid with a pleasant aroma and sweet taste, poured into dark glass bottles with a volume of 125, 100 and 60 ml.

100 ml of the product includes: a therapeutic base - an extract from the root of a plant in an amount of 4 grams, auxiliary ingredients - sugar syrup (86 ml) and 10 ml of ethyl alcohol (90%).

The bottle with liquid is packed in a cardboard box with enclosed instructions for medical use.

Pharmacological properties and indications for use

Licorice root contains many pharmacologically active natural substances, which makes it a versatile medicine.

Healing components and properties

Found in the root of a medicinal plant:

• vitamins, sugars, valuable microelements, mucous substances, antioxidants, oleic and palmitic acid, essential oils, pectins;
• about 30 plant pigments of flavonoids, including licurazide, which can reduce inflammation and vascular fragility, reduce pain and spasmodic syndrome, and accelerate tissue repair;
• glycyrrhizic acid, which provides an original and sweetish taste and is particularly active against microbes, viruses and allergens.

Thanks to the healing properties of these substances, licorice root syrup is able to have a pronounced medicinal effect.

Among the main pharmacological actions of the drug:

1. Stimulation of the motor functions of the respiratory tract, increasing the secretion of mucous secretions, reducing the thickness of sputum and its ability to stick and accumulate on the mucous membrane, expectorant effect.
2. Suppression of the reproduction and activity of microorganisms and viruses, including herpes viruses (Varicella zoster, Herpes simplex), papillomavirus, including its strains that cause malignant processes.
3. Reducing inflammation, pain.
4. Relaxation of muscle tissue and elimination of spasm in the bronchi, stomach, intestines, biliary tract, ureters.
5. Inhibition of the activity of allergens, relieving itching and swelling.
6. General strengthening effect on all body systems, strengthening of defenses.
7. It has a wound healing and soft enveloping effect (due to mucous substances in the composition).

Indications

Due to its healing properties, licorice syrup is actively used, prescribing it to patients of different ages, starting with infants, under the following pathological conditions:

• infectious inflammation of the respiratory system (tracheitis and tracheobronchitis, pneumonia and bronchiolitis) as an expectorant to increase secretion and thinning of mucus (as a monopreparation for catarrhal conditions, or as part of complex therapy for severe processes);
• pharyngitis, laryngitis, as a remedy that eliminates swelling and soreness, softens the mucous membrane of the throat and pharynx;
• in order to improve the drainage functions of the lungs and bronchi, to prevent pneumonia and pulmonary edema in bedridden patients;
• tuberculosis, lung tumors, asthma (in complex treatment);
• gastrointestinal pathologies, including gastritis, gastroduodenitis and ulcerative lesions (only during the period when acute symptoms subside) - relieves pain, reduces the secretion of hydrochloric acid, envelops the gastric mucosa, eliminates spasm, pain, heals ulcers;
• diseases of the genitourinary system (as a diuretic);
• Chronic constipation (as a mild natural laxative)
• Addison's disease, reduced adrenal function (in combination treatment);
• helminthiasis (suppression of helminthic aggression);
• overwork, decreased immune defense - licorice increases the ability to resist infectious aggression, allergens, stress factors, including patients with HIV;
• postoperative condition (for early tissue healing).

At what age can children be given?

One of the main advantages of a mixture with licorice is its natural composition, safety for children and a pleasant taste. The remedy facilitates the child's breathing, relieving bronchopulmonary spasm, reduces the viscosity of mucus and promotes easy coughing.

Despite the fact that delicious cough syrup is considered one of the most effective expectorants, in pediatrics they try to prescribe it to babies at least 12 months old. According to some indications, it is allowed to use it in infants, but only from 2 to 3 months of life, and in a very small dose.

In addition, although the volume of ethyl alcohol in the composition of the mixture is insignificant, this factor should be taken into account when treating the younger generation.

Which cough to take, dry or wet?

Licorice root syrup, like any expectorant medication, has the greatest therapeutic effect with a dry form of cough, when sputum is not coughing up at all, or with a wet, but unproductive cough with difficult to separate sputum clots.

Licorice root syrup: instructions for use, dosage

General admission rules for all age categories:

1. Exact adherence to therapeutic doses is required according to the instructions or as prescribed by a doctor.
2. It is unacceptable to neglect contraindications in order to avoid complications.
3. It is necessary to take into account the high degree of allergenic activity of licorice.
4. It is considered correct to take the mixture, diluting the required dose with a sufficient volume of boiled water - this enhances the expectorant effect and facilitates the passage of mucus.
5. The standard course of treatment (if the doctor has not specified a different duration) is 7 to 12 days.
6. The need for re-treatment is also determined by a specialist.
7. For any infections, bronchopulmonary diseases, difficult coughing, the patient needs to drink more warm liquid in the form of fruit drinks, decoctions, compotes, tea.

For children

If the pediatrician has not determined the specific dose of the medicinal syrup, you can study the instructions or apply the well-known rule: for each whole year of the baby's life, a single dose of the medicinal product is no more than 1 drop of the medicine. The standard frequency of taking the medicine is 3 - 5 times a day after meals.

According to the instructions for use, single dosages for young patients are prescribed in accordance with age:

1. Babies 1 - 2 years old are given 1 - 2 drops of medicine, which are added to 1 teaspoon of boiled warm water.
2. Children 3 - 6 years old should receive 3 to 10 drops diluted with water (about a tablespoon).
3. Children 7 - 12 years old can take from 12 drops to a teaspoon of the mixture with 50 ml of water.
4. Patients over 12 years of age are prescribed a single dose in the amount of 1 teaspoon to 1 dessert spoon. The medicine is diluted, or washed down with 100 ml of water.

For adults

A single dose for patients over 16 years of age ranges from 1 full dessert spoon to 1 tbsp. spoon, which is washed down with 150 ml of water.

The largest single dose for adult patients: 1 tablespoon, the highest daily dose cannot exceed 5 tbsp. spoons.

Can and how to take licorice syrup during pregnancy and lactation?

Like many other medicinal plants, licorice in all forms, including syrup with an extract, is contraindicated for use during the period of gestation.

At this time, the body of the mother and the fetus is extremely vulnerable, and any concomitant reactions and complications that can be triggered by taking the medication can lead to serious conditions that disrupt the course of pregnancy.

High probability:

• acute allergic reaction with unpredictable consequences;
• an increase in blood pressure and the development of complications associated with this factor, up to preeclampsia, placental insufficiency, early placental abruption;
• hypokalemia (drop in potassium levels) with further tissue degeneration in the myocardium;
• changes in water-salt metabolism, leading to edema, toxicosis, impaired functioning of the liver and kidneys;
• fluctuations in hormonal activity due to the influence of licorice on the function of the adrenal cortex and the production of hormones.

And abrupt changes in hormonal status during gestation pose a threat of termination of pregnancy.

Cleansing the lymphatic system with syrup

The lymphatic system serves as a filter for the body, since the lymphatic fluid absorbs infectious agents, poisons, allergens.

When the movement of lymph is impeded, the load on the liver and kidneys increases, the immune defense weakens, the body is poisoned with bacterial poisons, heavy metal salts, allergens, viral toxins.

Cleansing the lymph starts the process of curing many chronic diseases of the genitourinary system and respiratory system, hepatitis, allergies, cholestasis, metabolic pathologies and obesity, candidiasis, dysbiosis, skin diseases, including eczema and furunculosis, conditions caused by circulatory disorders.

Cleansing the lymphatic system using the combined use of syrup from licorice root and sorbent is considered one of the most effective ways.

Licorice improves the flowing properties of lymph, accelerating the elimination of toxic substances into the intestines, and the absorbent absorbs poisons and removes them from the body naturally (along with feces), preventing reabsorption into the blood.

It is often recommended to use licorice syrup and Enterosgel (as a sorbent). However, the maximum sorption capacity - that is, the ability to absorb the largest amount of toxins - is possessed not by Enterosgel, but by Polysorb. This drug absorbs 2 times more poisons than Enterosgel, and at the same time takes with it 4 times less vitamins and substances necessary for the body.

Method of application

After 1.5 - 2 hours after eating, syrup is drunk in an age-specific dosage, mixed with boiled water. Wait another 2 hours and take a sorbent, also dissolved in water.

After that, you can eat only after 2 - 3 hours. Afternoon is best - just before dinner.

Important! Do not drink syrup and sorbent at the same time, otherwise the treatment will not work, since the sorbent will reduce the therapeutic effect of licorice.

The full course of cleansing the lymphatic system takes 2 weeks.

Doses of syrup and sorbent for cleansing lymph:

1. For adult patients over 16 years old, 2 large tablespoons of syrup mixed in 200 ml of warm water are required.
2. For children from 12 months, doses are calculated taking into account age, weight in accordance with the instructions for the medication.
3. The required amount of Enterosgel or Polysorb is also stirred in boiled water (1 to 3). For babies over 12 months old who are breastfed, you can dissolve the sorbent in human milk.

Contraindications, side effects

For more than 2 millennia, licorice root has been used as a medicine, but, like any medicine, sweet mixture has contraindications:

• special sensitivity to licorice, syrup auxiliary ingredients or other licorice pharmaceuticals;
• diabetes;
• the waiting period for childbirth and breastfeeding;
• gastritis with low acidity;
• exacerbation of peptic ulcer, gastritis;
• chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, cholestasis (impaired secretion and outflow of bile);
• severe renal failure;
• disorders of the rhythm of myocardial contractions, heart disease (myocarditis, pericarditis);
• hypokalemia (low potassium in the blood);
• electrolyte imbalance.

With caution and under the supervision of the patient's condition, licorice syrup is prescribed:

• patients with diagnosed bronchial asthma;
• people with arterial hypertension.

Unwanted concomitant reactions

In some cases, taking the medicine may be accompanied by:

• allergic manifestations in the form of rash, redness, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue;
• the development of diarrhea, bouts of nausea (very rare).

With prolonged use of the medication, especially when the dose is exceeded, the following develop:

• hypokalemia, electrolyte imbalance;
• steady increase in blood pressure;
• swelling, disturbances in the work of the heart.

In the case of long-term intake of syrup with periodic overdose, the following occurs:

• decreased sex drive and testosterone levels in men;
• violation of diuresis, irritation of the gastric mucosa and esophagus.

Drug interactions with other drugs

Particular attention should be paid to the parallel use of a pharmaceutical product with other drugs, especially for a long time.

It is forbidden to combine licorice syrup:

• with antitussives, since suppression of coughing can lead to blockage of the bronchi with vigorous sputum;
• with cardiac glycosides (anti-arrhythmia drugs), since licorice can enhance their toxic effect;
• with medications that lower blood pressure;
• with loop and thiazide diuretics that remove potassium salts (Furosemide, Bumetanide, Torasemide, Dichlorothiazide, Indapamide, Clopamide, Chlorthalidone) in order to avoid potassium loss.

The correct storage conditions for the drug

The bottle of licorice syrup should be stored in a dark place out of the reach of children, within a temperature range of 5 - 20 ° C.

The shelf life of the product is indicated on the package and does not exceed 2 years. If the expiration date has ended, it is highly discouraged to use the medicine.

You can buy licorice syrup at any pharmacy, no prescription is required.

Licorice root syrup is a medicinal preparation based on herbal raw materials. It is obtained from the roots and rhizomes of the medicinal. The roots and rhizomes of the plant contain glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhizin, which have a pronounced therapeutic effect. To get to know the medicine better, let's take a closer look at what licorice root syrup is, its application, instructions for its use.

The composition of licorice root syrup is very rich. The content of active substances in the root of the plant reaches 27 flavonoid compounds (flavonoids, chalcones, and their isoforms). In addition, licorice roots contain polysaccharides and essential oils. One bottle of the drug (per 100 g) contains:

extract of licorice root (4 g),

96% ethyl alcohol (10 g),

sugar syrup (86 g.)

Thanks to this composition, licorice root syrup is a modern herbal preparation with a high healing effect.

Licorice root (syrup) - instructions:

The syrup is a thick brown liquid with a distinctive tart odor and sweet taste.

It has antiviral activity, due to which it suppresses pathogenic microorganisms, staphylococci, mycobacteria. Also, licorice root syrup has a pronounced antitumor effect.

Indications for the use of the drug "Licorice root syrup"

Instructions for the use of licorice root syrup indicate the possibility of its use in acute and chronic bronchitis, tracheitis, atelectasis in the presence of a mucous plug, pneumonia, bronchial asthma, gastritis and gastric ulcer outside the stage of exacerbation. Licorice root syrup is also used to treat dry and wet coughs.

Contraindications for licorice root

Licorice root syrup is contraindicated in the presence of gastritis, peptic ulcer in the stage of exacerbation of the disease.

The drug should not be used in case of hypersensitivity to the components of the drug. Licorice root syrup during pregnancy, lactating women with diabetes mellitus, people with bronchial asthma can be used for medical reasons and as prescribed by a doctor. If there are none, consider that it is contraindicated for admission.

Possible side effects

When using the drug, manifestations of allergies, an increase in blood pressure are possible.

How to take licorice root syrup?

When taking any medicine, you need to know when to stop in order to get a therapeutic effect. Has the same requirements and licorice root syrup. Dosage with three times a day the following:

* Adults - 1 tablespoon each, dissolved in half a glass of boiled water

* Children over 12 years old - 1 tsp each, dissolved in a quarter of a glass of boiled water

* Children from 2 to 12 years old - half 1 tsp, dissolved in a quarter of a glass of water

* Licorice root syrup for children under 2 years old - 2 drops per 1 des.l. boiled water.

The course of treatment is from a week to 10 days. Give licorice root syrup to children very carefully, remembering that it contains 96% ethyl alcohol. Also remember that prolonged use of licorice can cause swelling!

The official instructions included in the box regulate how much licorice syrup should be taken, how the drug is used. All the above figures, indications and contraindications are also reflected in it.

The drug is stored for 2 years in a cool, dark place. Do not self-medicate, before taking licorice root syrup, consult your doctor, carefully read the official instructions.

How to drink licorice root? Can it be used during pregnancy? What are the age limits, pediatric and adult dosages? All these questions can be answered by carefully studying the instructions for the pharmaceutical product. But it is better to ask them to the attending physician. The syrup is freely available over the counter without a prescription. However, it is still not worth using it without medical advice. The tool can give side effects, has a number of serious contraindications. It is also necessary to take into account the drug interaction of the syrup.

Description of the drug

The syrup of licorice root contains a thick extract of licorice root, sugar and ethyl alcohol. Most often, the drug is produced in bottles of 100 ml. Shelf life is 2 years. The package contains a measuring cup or spoon. Today on the pharmacological market there is a huge selection of licorice syrup (licorice root, licorice). The drugs may differ in volume, name and packaging, but the pharmacological action, indications and contraindications are the same for them.

pharmachologic effect

The most useful substances in syrup are glycyrrhizic acid, flavonoids, sugars, coumarins, essential oil. Thanks to them, licorice is ranked as a valuable pharmaceutical raw material. What is the pharmacological action of licorice?

• Anti-inflammatory.
• Corticosteroid.
• Expectorant.
• Laxative.
• Emollient.
• Antineoplastic.
• Enveloping.
• Antispasmodic.
• Immunostimulating.
• Regenerating.

After a series of studies and experimental treatment, the antiviral properties of this drug were confirmed. It is effective in the maintenance therapy of AIDS patients with herpes. Antibacterial properties are also found in licorice. There were positive reviews on the treatment of staphylococcal infection with licorice root syrup. Read more about it in our other article.

List of indications

What are the indications of licorice root syrup?

• When coughing. The syrup is effective for various forms of bronchitis, tracheitis, pneumonia, bronchopneumonia. Liquefies thick secretions, relieves dry cough attacks, makes it productive - moist. Removes mucous plugs in case of blockage of bronchi and lungs.
• Bronchial asthma... Softens, soothes cough, relieves spasms of smooth muscles of the bronchi. However, self-medication with this diagnosis is categorically contraindicated. There are cases of allergy to the drug and exacerbation of the disease.
• Bronchiectasis... A purulent process in the bronchi, often of a chronic nature. It occurs with tuberculosis, lung abscess. The complex treatment includes antibiotics, bronchodilators, massage, breathing exercises. To liquefy sputum, an extract of licorice root is prescribed.
• Sanitation of the bronchi. It is carried out before the surgical treatment of the bronchi, after operations.

The main pharmacological action is an expectorant. Glycyrrhizin acts on the ciliated epithelium of the bronchi, stimulates its work, and removes excess phlegm.

Mode of application

How to take licorice root syrup for adults? The instructions indicate the average dosage. The course and dose are calculated by the doctor for a specific diagnosis, stage of the disease, age of the patient, taking into account the tolerability of the drug.

• Dosage. Adults and children after 12 years of age take the medicine 15 mg 3-4 times a day.
• Conditions of admission. The syrup is drunk after meals, not diluted in water, but washed down with a sufficient amount of liquid.
• A course of treatment . The duration of treatment should not exceed 10 days. Depends on the productivity of the cough.

Drug interactions

It is not advisable to take the syrup along with diuretics, as this will increase the excretion of potassium from the body. Also, a sharp potassium deficiency can be triggered by the simultaneous intake of licorice and heart medications. Laxatives and hormonal agents can enhance the laxative effect and lead to electrolyte imbalance.

Contraindications for licorice syrup: diabetes mellitus, stages of exacerbation of chronic gastrointestinal diseases (ulcer, gastritis); cardiac, renal, hepatic failure; arrhythmia; cardiac and renal edema; obesity; hypertension; potassium deficiency; allergy to licorice in the form of urticaria, edema, itching. With prolonged use and overdose, side effects occur - increased blood pressure, swelling, lack of potassium, allergies, as well as digestive disorders - nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.

Features of the use of licorice root syrup

Licorice root syrup is the most convenient dosage form, especially for children. But you can also drink licorice in the form of powder, tablets, granules, thick liquid extract. At home, decoctions, infusions, tinctures are prepared from dry plant materials.

Alternative dosage forms

• Licorice Root Pills... They can be taken not only for inflammation of the respiratory system, but as an antispasmodic, laxative and anti-inflammatory agent for gastrointestinal diseases. This drug is also prescribed for asthenic syndrome, fatigue, neuroses, endocrine disorders, to strengthen the immune system. The remedy helps with dermatitis, allergies, it is often prescribed for bronchial asthma. The pills have age restrictions: they cannot be taken by children under 12 years of age.
• Licorice root extract... It looks like a thick, viscous mass, sold in plastic bags and cans. Often sold in large quantities to the pharmaceutical industry. It is used to prepare infusions, decoctions, as well as homemade syrups with added sugar and alcohol.

Cleansing the lymphatic system

Syrup and tincture of licorice are used to cleanse the lymphatic system. The detoxifying properties of the herb have been known since ancient times. Tibetan and Chinese healers often used licorice as an antidote. Licorice can cleanse the body of toxins and toxins. Lymph cleaning is carried out with the obligatory use of sorbents. After a course of cleansing therapy, the work of the kidneys and liver improves, the metabolism is normalized, the immune system is strengthened, the skin is cleansed, the condition of the hair improves, and edema goes away. How is the procedure carried out?

• Reception of licorice. In a glass of hot water, dilute 1 tbsp. l. syrup and drink the remedy. A reaction in the form of a runny nose, lacrimation is possible.
• Reception of the sorbent. An hour later, a sorbent is taken (more often it is recommended to drink Enterosgel). Its task is to remove toxins from the intestines.
• A course of treatment . Designed for 2 weeks. The procedure is carried out 3 times a day.

A doctor's consultation before cleansing lymph is strictly required! The reaction of the body can be unpredictable, side effects from the digestion, nervous system are possible, chronic diseases can be exacerbated.

For children

What is the use of licorice root syrup for children? The instructions indicate age-specific dosages:

Of course, this gradation is conditional. The doctor will prescribe the dose based on the weight of the child. Syrup is contraindicated for children under one year old.

It is important to know that licorice cannot be used concurrently with other cough suppressants. This primarily concerns antitussives, which suppress severe coughing attacks. With the dilution of sputum and the impossibility of coughing it up, a complication quickly develops - pneumonia. In children, this process is much faster. Therefore, it is impossible to independently treat a child's cough without a preliminary examination by a doctor. It is necessary to establish the type of cough - and then prescribe the syrup.

For women

In gynecology, licorice root is prized by natural estrogens (female steroid hormones). When they decrease in a woman's body, ovarian dysfunction may begin, which leads to a violation of the menstrual cycle. Often such violations occur in the initial period of menopause. The syrup is prescribed to lower testosterone and normalize the cycle. Licorice helps lower cholesterol, because it is he who is the main carrier of testosterone. Also, the medicine is taken for painful periods, since the herb relieves spasms. For all the usefulness of licorice, it should not be drunk during pregnancy. Licorice is dangerous for pregnant women with side effects. It can lead to the following consequences:

• water retention in the body;
• increased toxicosis;
• swelling;
• increased blood pressure;
• violation of the water-salt balance;
• leaching of potassium;
• negative impact on the hormonal system.

Also, with caution, the medicine is taken during lactation, only after medical advice.

Licorice syrup is the most effective herbal remedy for dry coughs. It is prescribed for inflammation of the bronchi and lungs, bronchial asthma. Also, the agent is used to cleanse the lymphatic system, in gynecology it is prescribed to reduce testosterone, normalize the menstrual cycle.