Glycyrrhiza - the name derives from the Greek words glukos (sweet) and rhiza (root) - is better known as Liquorice. It is medium height - about 8' - hardy perennial shrub found growing widely throughout the world in temperate and suntropical areas but which originates from the Middle East and Mediterranean regions.

It is grown commercially in Asia, China, most Middle Eastern countries as well as Turkey and Greece. Liquorice - the comercial product - is made from the tap root, subsidiary roots and horizontal stolons. When broken the roots reveal a yellow interior with a charcteristic smell and sweet taste.

Traditionally used as a laxative, and expectorant Liquorice is particularly popular for coughs, bronchial problems, gastritis and as a general tonic.

Ethnoveterinary application: wound healing, coughs, colds in ruminants and domestic animals and as an expectorant.