Licorice, also known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, has a fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. Its origins can be traced to ancient civilizations in Egypt, China, Greece, Italy, and India. The earliest references to licorice root go as far back as 2300 BC.
In ancient China, it was already recognized for its potential health benefits. Licorice root was used medicinally and even made into a sweet drink for pharaohs in ancient Egypt.
Today, licorice is not only popular as a confection but also finds its place in herbal preparations, especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
The plant itself is native to Western Asia, North Africa, and Southern Europe, and its sweet, aromatic flavor is extracted from the root. It’s used in confectionery, tobacco, beverages, and pharmaceuticals, and its extracts have been employed in herbalism and traditional medicine.
