Gan Cao Zhi (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Preparata), also known as Honey-Fried Licorice Root or Prepared Licorice Root, is a traditional herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This prepared form of licorice root has been valued for centuries for its ability to tonify qi, strengthen the Spleen, moderate spasms, and harmonize herbal formulas.
In classical Chinese herbal medicine, Gan Cao Zhi is commonly included in formulas designed to support digestion, replenish qi, ease tension, and moderate the actions of stronger herbs. Compared with raw Gan Cao, the honey-fried form is traditionally considered more focused on tonifying and warming functions.
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we offer carefully sourced premium Gan Cao Zhi bulk herb selected for quality, potency, and traditional authenticity.
Our herbs are ideal for:
• Herbal practitioners
• Custom herbal formulas
• Decoctions and teas
• Practitioner herb packs
Learn More About This Herb
Want to explore the traditional classification, channels, and historical use of this herb in greater depth?
👉 Gan Cao Zhi Herb Guide
Traditional Uses of Gan Cao Zhi in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gan Cao Zhi is classified as a Tonifying Herb. Traditionally, it is used to:
• Tonify qi
• Strengthen the Spleen
• Moderate spasms and discomfort
• Harmonize herbal formulas
• Support balance in deficiency patterns
In classical herbal theory, Gan Cao Zhi enters the Heart, Lung, Spleen, and Stomach channels, where it helps restore balance when qi deficiency, weakness, or disharmony disrupt normal physiological function.
Because of these properties, Gan Cao Zhi is widely used in traditional formulas requiring gentle support and harmonization.
Herbs Often Used With Gan Cao Zhi
Gan Cao Zhi is frequently combined with other herbs in traditional Chinese formulas, including:
• Ren Shen – strongly tonifies source qi
• Bai Zhu – strengthens the Spleen and dries dampness
• Da Zao or Hong Zao – nourishes qi and harmonizes formulas
• Sheng Jiang or Gan Jiang – supports digestion and balances the middle
These herbs are commonly used together to create balanced formulas supporting qi and digestive harmony.
Modern Research on Glycyrrhiza uralensis
Modern research has identified naturally occurring compounds in licorice root, including glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, which have been studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
Scientific interest in this herb has explored potential roles in supporting:
• Digestive comfort
• Healthy immune response
• Respiratory balance
• Protection against oxidative stress
While research continues, this herb remains primarily valued within the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Premium Quality Gan Cao Zhi
High-quality Gan Cao Zhi should display several identifiable characteristics:
• Light brown to golden-brown root slices
• Slight natural sheen from honey processing
• Pleasant sweet aroma
• Dense texture with clean cuts
At Plum Dragon Herbs, our herbs are carefully selected and properly processed to preserve their traditional qualities.
Origin and Processing
Glycyrrhiza uralensis is cultivated in China and other parts of Asia. The medicinal portion used in Chinese herbal medicine is the root.
Gan Cao Zhi is traditionally prepared by processing licorice root with honey.
Traditionally:
• Mature roots are harvested
• Cleaned and sliced
• Fried or baked with honey
• Dried for herbal use
This process is traditionally believed to enhance the herb’s qi-tonifying and moderating properties.
How Gan Cao Zhi is Traditionally Used
Gan Cao Zhi may be prepared in several traditional ways.
Herbal Tea
Use 1–3 grams and steep in hot water for 10–15 minutes.
Decoction
Simmer 3–9 grams in approximately 500 ml of water for 30 minutes.
Herbal Formulas
Gan Cao Zhi is widely used in traditional Chinese herbal formulas.
Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for dosage and individualized guidance.
Safety and Precautions
This herb should be used appropriately according to individual constitution.
Use caution if:
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Taking prescription medications
• You have high blood pressure or cardiovascular concerns
• You have kidney conditions
• Using long-term or in large amounts without supervision
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products.
Additional Information
Botanical Name: Glycyrrhiza uralensis Preparata
Common Names: Gan Cao Zhi, Honey-Fried Licorice Root, Prepared Licorice Root
Flavor: Sweet
Temperature: Warm to neutral
Channels Entered:
• Heart
• Lung
• Spleen
• Stomach
Contraindications:
Use caution in cases of dampness, fullness, edema, or prolonged use without proper guidance. Traditional use should be tailored to the individual and formula context.
Why Choose Plum Dragon Herbs?
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we specialize in authentic Chinese medicinal herbs sourced for quality and potency. Our herbs are selected and processed according to traditional standards to support the needs of practitioners, herbalists, martial artists, and enthusiasts alike.
Experience the tradition and quality of authentic Chinese herbs from Plum Dragon Herbs.
Important Disclaimer
The information provided on this page reflects traditional herbal knowledge and historical use within Chinese medicine and is intended for educational purposes only.
Plum Dragon Herbs products are raw botanical materials and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
