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Gan Cao (甘草), the root of Glycyrrhiza (licorice), is the most frequently used herb in Chinese herbal medicine. It tonifies the Spleen qi, moistens the Lung, clears heat and resolves toxicity, relieves spasm and pain, and harmonises and moderates the actions of the other herbs in a formula.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Radix Glycyrrhizae)
Common English Name
Licorice root
Taste
Sweet
Temperature
Neutral (warm when honey-fried)
Channels Entered
Heart, Lung, Spleen, Stomach (all twelve channels)
Actions & Functions
- Tonifies the Spleen and augments the qi (honey-fried)
- Moistens the Lung and stops cough
- Clears heat and resolves toxicity (raw)
- Relieves spasm and stops pain
- Harmonises and moderates the other herbs in a formula
Indications
Spleen qi deficiency with fatigue; cough and wheezing; sore throat, carbuncles and toxic sores; spasm and pain of the abdomen and legs; and as a harmonising herb in a great many formulas.
Dosage
3-12 g in decoction (smaller doses as a harmoniser).
Common Combinations
With Bai Shao (Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang) to relieve spasm and pain; harmonises countless formulas including Si Jun Zi Tang.
Cautions & Contraindications
High doses or prolonged use can cause water retention and raised blood pressure; avoid in damp with fullness and oedema. Classically incompatible with Gan Sui, Da Ji, Yuan Hua and Hai Zao.
