甘草（学名：Glycyrrhiza uralensis）是一种多年生草本植物，广泛分布在欧洲、亚洲等地，以其根部入药而著名。甘草的根部含有多种活性成分，尤其是甘草酸和黄酮类化合物，具有多种药理作用。因其甘甜的味道和广泛的药用价值，甘草被广泛应用于传统中药、西方草药和食品调味中。
甘草的主要功能：
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抗炎和抗过敏：甘草酸有显著的抗炎作用，常用于缓解喉咙痛、胃炎、湿疹等炎症反应，同时甘草还常用于过敏反应的缓解。
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保护胃黏膜：甘草具有保护胃黏膜的作用，有助于缓解胃溃疡和胃酸过多等症状，因此在一些胃肠道疾病的治疗中，甘草被作为辅助成分。
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润肺止咳：甘草有润肺的作用，传统中药中常用于治疗咳嗽、哮喘等呼吸道疾病。
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解毒：甘草在中医里常作为药物的“调和剂”使用，能够降低某些药物的毒性或副作用，起到解毒的效果。
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调节免疫系统：甘草酸和甘草多糖等成分能够调节免疫系统，有助于增强机体对抗感染的能力。
Licorice (scientific name: Glycyrrhiza uralensis) is a perennial herb widely distributed across Europe and Asia, renowned for its medicinal root. The root contains various active compounds, especially glycyrrhizic acid and flavonoids, which contribute to its diverse pharmacological effects. Due to its naturally sweet taste and broad therapeutic value, licorice is extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine, Western herbal medicine, and as a food flavoring.
Main Functions of Licorice:
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Anti-inflammatory and Anti-allergic Effects: Glycyrrhizic acid has notable anti-inflammatory properties, commonly used to alleviate sore throat, gastritis, eczema, and other inflammatory conditions. Licorice is also used to ease allergic reactions.
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Protects Gastric Mucosa: Licorice helps protect the stomach lining, relieving symptoms of gastric ulcers and excessive stomach acid, making it a supportive ingredient in digestive treatments.
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Moistens the Lungs and Relieves Cough: Traditionally, licorice is utilized to soothe the lungs, effectively addressing coughing, asthma, and respiratory conditions.
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Detoxification: In Chinese medicine, licorice is often regarded as a harmonizing agent, capable of reducing the toxicity and side effects of certain medications, serving a detoxifying function.
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Regulates the Immune System: Compounds like glycyrrhizic acid and polysaccharides in licorice contribute to immune system regulation, enhancing the body's ability to combat infections.