Gan Cao (Licorice Root) – Glycyrrhiza uralensis
Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis), also known as Licorice Root, is a traditional herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). For centuries, it has been valued for its ability to tonify qi, moisten dryness, moderate spasms, and harmonize the actions of other herbs, helping restore balance when patterns of deficiency or disharmony arise in the body.
In classical Chinese herbal medicine, Gan Cao is commonly included in formulas designed to support the Spleen and Lung, ease tension, and harmonize complex herbal combinations.
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we offer carefully sourced premium Gan Cao 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?
Traditional Uses of Gan Cao in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gan Cao is classified as a Tonifying Herb. Traditionally, it is used to:
• Tonify Spleen qi
• Moisten the Lung
• Moderate spasms and tension
• Clear heat and relieve toxicity in traditional contexts
• Harmonize the actions of other herbs
In classical herbal theory, Gan Cao enters the Spleen, Stomach, Lung, and Heart channels, where it helps restore balance when qi deficiency, dryness, tension, or formula disharmony disrupt normal physiological function.
Because of these properties, Gan Cao is one of the most widely used herbs in traditional Chinese herbal formulas.
Herbs Often Used With Gan Cao
Gan Cao is frequently combined with other herbs in traditional Chinese formulas, including:
• Ren Shen – strongly tonifies primal qi and supports vitality
• Bai Zhu – strengthens the Spleen and helps manage dampness
• Huang Qin – clears heat and dries dampness
• Da Zao (Hong Zao) – nourishes the Spleen and moderates harsh properties of formulas
These herbs are commonly used together to create balanced and harmonized herbal formulas.
Modern Research on Glycyrrhiza uralensis
Modern research has identified naturally occurring compounds in Glycyrrhiza uralensis, 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:
• Healthy immune response
• Respiratory system balance
• Digestive comfort
• Protection against oxidative stress
While research continues, this herb remains primarily valued within the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Premium Quality Gan Cao
High-quality Gan Cao should display several identifiable characteristics:
• Yellow-brown to light brown root slices
• Firm, fibrous texture
• Naturally sweet aroma and taste
• Clean, uniform cuts with minimal debris
At Plum Dragon Herbs, our herbs are carefully selected and properly dried to preserve their traditional qualities.
Origin and Harvesting
Glycyrrhiza uralensis grows primarily in China and other regions of Asia. The medicinal portion used in Chinese herbal medicine is the root.
Traditionally, the root is harvested after several years of growth, when its properties have fully developed.
After harvesting:
• Roots are cleaned
• Sliced or processed
• Fully dried for herbal use
How Gan Cao is Traditionally Used
Gan Cao may be prepared in several traditional ways.
Herbal Tea
Use 1–2 grams of the herb and steep in hot water for 10–15 minutes.
Decoction
Simmer 3–5 grams in approximately 500 ml of water for 30 minutes.
Herbal Formulas
Gan Cao is widely used in traditional Chinese herbal formulas to harmonize and support other herbs.
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
Common Names: Gan Cao, Licorice Root, Radix Glycyrrhizae
Flavor: Sweet
Temperature: Neutral
Channels Entered:
• Spleen
• Stomach
• Lung
• Heart
Contraindications:
Use caution in cases of dampness, fullness, 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.
