Dried Licorice Root Slices Gan Cao 甘草 500g Raw Chinese Herb for Decoction and Tea

Dried Licorice Root Slices, known in TCM as Gan Cao (甘草), from Glycyrrhiza uralensis. These cut root slices are a classic Chinese herbal ingredient, traditionally associated with harmonizing other herbs and supporting respiratory and digestive comfort in TCM theory. Sweet in flavor and neutral in nature, they enter multiple channels and are commonly used in decoctions, teas, and culinary recipes. Store at room temperature in a dry place.

Key Selling Points

• Whole-cut licorice root slices from Xinjiang, a recognized Chinese growing region
• Botanical source Glycyrrhiza uralensis, known in TCM as Gan Cao (甘草)
• Traditionally used to harmonize herbal formulas and moderate other herbs
• Large round slices suitable for decoction pieces, herbal tea, and soup bases
• Sold as a raw edible botanical with 12-month shelf life under room-temperature storage

Quality & Sensory

Slices typically show a yellowish-brown to reddish-brown surface with a fibrous, dense cut. The aroma is mildly sweet and earthy, and the taste is distinctly sweet with a subtle bitter finish when simmered or steeped.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Simmer in herbal decoctions with other roots and barks
• Steep slices in hot water as a mild daily herbal tea
• Add to soup and congee bases for natural sweetness
• Use in culinary spice blends and traditional seasonal recipes

Traditional Uses

In TCM practice, Gan Cao is one of the most frequently used herbs, traditionally added to formulas to harmonize the actions of other ingredients. It is also traditionally associated with soothing the throat and supporting digestive comfort. Common pairings include jujube, ginger, and dried tangerine peel in decoctions and teas. Honey-processed Zhi Gan Cao is a traditional preparation used in classic restorative formulas.

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