LICORICE (Glycyrrhiza glabra)  aka - Licorice Root, Sweet Wood
NOTE:  In very large doses, it induces sodium retention and potassium depletion and can lead to hypertension and edema.

Licorice has a long history of medicinal use, it has been used for thousands of years by the Egyptians, Romans, Greeks, and Chinese. Licorice is thought to work as a stimulant on the adrenal glands and as a natural source of a hormone similar to cortisone. It assists in helping the body handle stress, allowing blood sugar levels to remain normal and imparting a general feeling of well-being. Licorice also stimulates adrenal function without depleting them. Licorice root has anti-arthritic activity – its glycyrrhizinic acid provides anti-inflammatory effects related to a release of corticoids from the adrenals that can be helpful for people with arthritis. Glycyrrhizin helps to raise blood sugar levels to normal. Licorice stimulates the production of interferon said to be the key to preventing and treating immune-response deficiency diseases. It is recommended for soothing throats.