Native to European with picky, blue flowers, licorice is a member of the pea family, and is a perennial herb.
Licorice or Glycyrrhiza glabra is a natural anti-inflammatory and in studies had been shown to inactivate the herpes simplex virus.
According to a study published in Microbiology and Immunology, licorice stimulates cell production of interferon, the body’s own antiviral compound.
Studies in humans have been small, but they suggest that topical application of carbenoxolone cream may improve healing and prevent recurrence.
Other studies also have shown that licorice fights the herpes simplex virus, which causes genital herpes and cold sores.
Sprinkling some powder licorice root on sores may speed healing.
Other than herpes simplex, the glycyrrhizic acid in licorice root helps to heal ulcers and loosens mucus, which enhances licorices value in treating bronchitis and coughs.
Licorice fights herpes simplex virus
