Honey-Fried Licorice

炙甘草 (Zhì Gān Cǎo) · Glycyrrhiza uralensis (preparata)

Licorice stir-fried with honey — transforms its properties to tonify qi and harmonize the heart. The key herb in Zhi Gan Cao Tang for heart palpitations and irregular pulse.

Evidence Score
2.5/10
Insufficient
Safety
Use with caution

Good For

Key Benefits

May help the body adapt to stress

Traditionally used to calm the spirit and ease tension

May help combat fatigue and increase stamina

Traditionally used to support physical endurance

How to Take

Typical dose: Follow product label. Typically 500-1500mg extract daily, taken in the morning
Forms: capsule, powder, tea/decoction, tincture
Timing: Take with food unless otherwise directed. Allow 2-4 weeks for full effects with tonic herbs
Start with lower doses and increase gradually. Quality and standardization vary between brands.

Safety & Interactions

Possible Side Effects

  • Digestive discomfort at higher doses
  • May cause drowsiness or stimulation depending on the herb
  • Allergic reactions possible in sensitive individuals

Do Not Use If

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
  • Children under 12 without professional guidance
  • Scheduled surgery (stop 2 weeks before)

Drug Interactions

  • May interact with prescription medications
  • May affect blood sugar or blood pressure medications
  • Consult pharmacist before combining with other supplements

Traditional Use

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, 炙甘草 (Zhì Gān Cǎo) has been used for centuries. It is traditionally classified as a qi-tonifying herb that strengthens vitality. It is traditionally used to calm the spirit (shen) and settle the heart-mind.

Modern Research

Very limited modern research exists for this herb. Evidence is primarily based on traditional use documentation and basic laboratory studies. Clinical trials are lacking. Use is based mainly on centuries of empirical traditional practice rather than modern scientific validation.

View all studies on PubMed for Glycyrrhiza uralensis (preparata)

Where to Buy

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