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Key Facts
- Material
- Root
- Botanical source
- Glycyrrhiza uralensis
- Direct human evidence
- No verified study currently linked
What Is Gan Cao?
Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis), known in Chinese as 甘草 is the root of Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Fabaceae), a traditional Chinese medicinal material with documented use in classical TCM texts. In the traditional TCM framework, it is classified as neutral in nature and sweet in flavor.
Tonifies Spleen Qi, clears heat, detoxifies, moderates other herbs[1]
Botanical description: Glycyrrhiza uralensis is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Fabaceae family, growing 30–100 cm tall. The medicinal parts are the dried roots and rhizomes, harvested in spring and autumn. The dried material is cylindrical, reddish-brown to dark brown externally, with a yellowish cross-section showing distinct radial striations, and a characteristic intensely sweet taste from glycyrrhizin content.
Traditional TCM Context
Traditional functions: Tonifies Spleen Qi, clears heat, detoxifies, moderates other herbs[1]
Traditional uses: Tonifying the Spleen and augmenting Qi; clearing Heat and removing toxins; moistening the Lung to stop coughing; moderating the effects of other herbs and harmonising formula actions. Rarely used as a chief herb; most classical formulas include Gan Cao in an adjuvant role to harmonise and moderate the properties of other ingredients.
Related TCM patterns
This description reflects traditional TCM theory and is not a modern medical diagnosis or treatment claim.
What Research Applies to Gan Cao?
Glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and polysaccharides from Glycyrrhiza species demonstrate anti-inflammatory, antiviral, hepatoprotective, and expectorant activities. Systematic reviews note gastrointestinal mucosal protection. However, glycyrrhizin at high doses or with prolonged use can cause pseudoaldosteronism (hypertension, hypokalemia, edema). Most published research evaluates standardized extracts rather than raw Gan Cao.
No published research studies are currently linked to Gan Cao in this library.
Research information will be added as verified studies become available.
Safety Information
Safety Summary
What is known
Avoid prolonged high-dose use due to glycyrrhizin-related pseudoaldosteronism risk (hypertension, hypokalemia, edema). Contraindicated in patients with hypertension, hypokalemia, or renal impairment without professional supervision. May interact with antihypertensives, diuretics, and corticosteroids.
What remains uncertain
- Herb-specific clinical safety data (adverse events, toxicity, long-term use) are not available for review.
- Drug-herb interaction data specific to Gan Cao may be lacking; most published interaction studies use extracts or isolated compounds.
Who should seek professional guidance
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those taking prescription medications, people managing chronic conditions, and anyone considering herbal products for children should consult a qualified healthcare professional before using Gan Cao or any herbal product.
Platform safety boundary
TCMIO provides educational information only — not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. We do not provide dosage guidance, administration instructions, or individualized treatment plans. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal product.
Safety during pregnancy, lactation, and pediatric use has not been systematically evaluated for Gan Cao as a medicinal material. For urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Sources Used on This Page(2)
- 1.
Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission. Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China (2020 Edition), Volume I. Beijing: China Medical Science Press; 2020.
Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020Bibliographic details
Supports: Botanical Identity, Traditional TCM Context, Traditional Functions
Reliability: High
Source type: Government Source
- 2.
Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission. Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China, 2020 Edition, Volume I. Beijing: China Medical Science Press; 2020. Monograph: Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Gan Cao).
Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020Bibliographic details
Reliability: gold
Last checked: July 2026
Source type: pharmacopoeia
Medical Disclaimer: The information on TCMIO is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal products, starting any new treatment, or making changes to your existing healthcare regimen. Do not stop or modify any prescribed treatment without consulting your healthcare provider.
If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or visiting the nearest emergency department.