When was licorice invented

The first thing to know is that licorice candy originally gets its name from the licorice plant, a herbaceous shrub that has a lot of imitators! The most common licorice impersonator in food and confectionery is anise, the herb that makes the Greek liqueur Ouzo taste like licorice. Licorice first gained popularity for its medicinal properties. The root, when chewed, not only helps keep people hydrated, but also contains essential juices that are thought to help alleviate mild inflammation, chest congestion, and allergies.

The soldiers of Alexander the Great were ordered to chew the roots to keep themselves healthy and hydrated, and in the medieval era, no Italian apothecary worth his pharmacy would be caught without some in stock.

Modern medical studies have confirmed that licorice can soothe the stomach and cleanse the respiratory system , among other helpful effects. Prior to that time, it was most commonly brewed into a beer, which was consumed both recreationally and for medicinal purposes. In addition to being used as a flavoring in candy products, natural licorice can be an effective medicine. For over 3, years, licorice root has been used as a treatment in bronchial ailments, minor throat irritation as a cough suppressant, gastric and peptic ulcers, menopause, eczema, infection, and to help to overcome sugar cravings.

But the most enduring quality of licorice continues to be its potential for the sweetness of flavor. Licorice is sure to continue on as a favorite snack of humankind. Candy Warehouse is proud to sell many varieties of this ancient treat! The History of Licorice Candy. The ancient liquorice cure Liquorice root was also amongst the many treasures found in the Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun's tomb from BC. Scholars still do not know why. However, we do know that liquorice was a common ingredient in many of the remedies from Ancient Greece.

One such is cough medicine. It was this role that liquorice was to play in modern times, where it became a common ingredient in cough syrup because of its relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.

From medicine to candy The history of liquorice continues from cough medicine to candy in Italy, France, Germany and England. Many examples of the development of liquorice through the 19th century abound that reminds us of its current use.