Healing Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Licorice Root

picture of how the herb licorice root DLG will help to heal restless legs syndrome (RLS)

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Licorice is the root of Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Gr: sweet root) from which a sweet flavour can be extracted. The licorice plant is a legume and is native to southern Europe and parts of Asia.⁴²

Licorice's main attribute is as an anti-inflammatory and as such is used to combat arthritis pain. Licorice is also an antioxidant.⁴³

In China, herbalists use licorice to reduce or relieve pain resulting from inflammation. Licorice stimulates the pituitary and adrenal glands to increase natural production of adrenal hormones such as cortisone that reduce the inflammation and consequent pain caused by conditions such as arthritis.⁴⁵ Next to ginseng, licorice is the most popular herb used in Chinese formulas.⁴⁴

Licorice contains triterpenoid saponins, flavanoids, isoflavanoids, magnesium, silicon, sodium and other beneficial constituents. Licorice contains over 400 active phytochemicals that translate into a wide range of benefits.⁴⁴

The glycyrrhizin in licorice stimulates the adrenal glands to produce certain hormones, reduces inflammation and increases the levels of interferon, a virus-fighting substance manufactured by the immune system. Other compounds in licorice are potent antioxidants and may also mimic the effects of estrogen in the body.⁴⁵

Modern research finds that licorice boosts immunity, fights viruses, treats ulcers, reduces inflammation, protects the liver, eases menopause and applied topically, relieves eczema.⁴⁵

Many health care providers use deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) in gastric ulcers with positive results. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a licorice supplement in which the component glycyrrhizin is removed. Glycyrrhizin has been reported to cause increases in blood pressure.⁴⁶

Licorice is included in most Chinese herb combinations to balance the other herbs and to promote vitality.⁴³

SUMMARY: Licorice Root (DGL) will help to heal the inflammation that is causing your restless legs. The "bristling" in your legs (arms, feet etc.) is caused by the energy moving through your body and irritating the inflamed cells. As the inflammation lesses, your RLS will lessen. Licorice Root will also help the other herbs to work together in a balanced fashion.