Gan Cao

Also Known As: Glycyrrhiza Uralensis

Chinese Name: 甘草

Thermal Nature: Neutral

Flavor: Sweet

Organ Meridian: Heart, lung, spleen, stomach

Properties: Boosts Qi and strengthens the spleen, cools the body and helps with detoxification, dissolves phlegm and stops coughing, relieves pain and harmonizes other herbs

Best Use For: Gancao is commonly used in Chinese medicine and herbal soups as its sweet taste can be accepted by most people. Alone, it can be used for strengthening the spleen and boosting Qi for the heart. It can also be used to relieve cough due to phlegm. 

Serving Per Day For One Person: 2 to 10g

Dietary Caution: Avoid consuming gan cao above the recommended dosage as it will lead to water retention in the body. It has a clashing effect with seaweed, so avoid consuming them together. 

Suitable For: Qi deficiency body constitution