Licorice Skin Benefits

I have been researching the skin benefits of licorice and I am quite surprised at the number of benefits licorice has for our skin. Licorice (also spelled liquorice) is an extract from the root of the licorice plant. As an additive to soaps and creams, licorice can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions.

The most widely recognized benefit of licorice is its ability to help treat eczema. As one who suffers from eczema, I personally am very familiar with its symptoms, primarily red, itchy skin, blisters and flaking. Although the cause of eczema is still unknown, stress can play a part in aggravating this skin condition. Licorice, in cream form or as a soap additive, can soothe the skin to relieve the symptoms.

Another widely known benefit of licorice is its ability to help fight acne. As a teenager who suffered from acne, I would have been very grateful if someone had recommended this natural remedy to me. Unfortunately, I did not have such good luck. But today, teenagers and adults who suffer from acne can benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties and the elimination of bacteria that licorice provides.

The anti-inflammatory properties of licorice make it a good remedy for rosacea, a skin condition caused by the inflammation of blood vessels, usually in the areas of the face and nose. If left untreated rosacea can lead to permanent swelling. Licorice as a cream or in soap can help rosacea sufferers find relief from this disease.

Licorice contains anti-oxidants, which help protect your skin from sun damage and from exposure to the elements. It also contains glycyrrhizinate, an effective moisturizer for the skin. Added to creams, licorice is good for dry hands; and it soothes your skin, bringing it back to life.

The following is a list of skin conditions that can be treated by and benefit from the healing qualities of licorice:

• Remedy for acne

• Remedy for dry skin

• Remedy for eczema

• Remedy for rosacea

• Helps fade brown spots

• Helps treat dandruff

• Helps fade scars

• Helps treat stretch marks

• Helps skin lightening and whitening

Source by Steve Henley