Common Names for Licorice Across Different Cultures and Contexts
Licorice, or the sweet-tasting extract from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, has a rich and storied history that has led to a variety of names in different languages and contexts. Its name in Greek, glycyrrhiza, translates directly to 'sweet root,' a descriptor that has inspired several of its common aliases.
Sweetwood
One of the most straightforward and descriptive alternative names for licorice is "sweetwood". This name is a direct nod to the potent sweetness of the woody root itself. Historically, the root was chewed for its flavor and medicinal properties, with the term reflecting this simple and direct application. This name is particularly common in Germanic languages, such as the German "Süßholz".
Mulethi
In South Asia, particularly in India, the dried root of the licorice plant is widely known as "mulethi". This name is deeply embedded in Ayurvedic and traditional Indian medicine, where it is valued for its soothing properties for the throat and digestive system. Mulethi is often sold as a powder or in its whole root form for use in herbal teas and other remedies.
Botanical Name
For a scientifically precise name, one can refer to the licorice plant by its botanical or taxonomic designation, Glycyrrhiza glabra. The species name, glabra, refers to the plant's smooth or hairless appearance. There are also other species within the Glycyrrhiza genus used for flavoring, such as Glycyrrhiza uralensis.
Liquorice (UK English Spelling)
In British English and many Commonwealth countries, the word is spelled "liquorice" with a 'qu' instead of 'c'. This spelling difference is a matter of regional preference and does not indicate a different product. The pronunciation also differs slightly between American and British English.
Gan Cao (Chinese Licorice)
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), licorice from the species Glycyrrhiza uralensis is known as Gan Cao or Chinese Licorice. It is one of the most frequently used herbs in TCM formulas, where it is highly valued for its ability to "harmonize" or balance other ingredients.
Comparison Table: Licorice vs. Common Flavor Alike (Anise)
While licorice has many names, it is often confused with other plants that share a similar flavor profile, most notably anise. The source of this similarity is the compound anethole, which is found in both licorice root and anise seeds. However, the plants are botanically unrelated and have distinct characteristics.
| Feature | Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) | Anise (Pimpinella anisum) |
|---|---|---|
| Plant Family | Fabaceae (Legume/Pea Family) | Apiaceae (Parsley/Carrot Family) |
| Source of Flavor | Root extract | Seeds (aniseed) |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, earthy, sometimes salty or bitter, and anise-like | Sweet and distinctly licorice-like, often spicier |
| Appearance | Woody perennial shrub with oblong leaves | Annual herb with feathered leaves and white flowers in umbels |
| Other Uses | Sweetener, medicinal herb, tobacco flavoring | Culinary spice, flavoring in liqueurs like absinthe |
The Decorative 'Licorice Plant'
It is also important to distinguish the true licorice root from ornamental plants that share its name. The "licorice plant" often found in gardens is Helichrysum petiolare, an ornamental perennial from the Asteraceae family. This plant has soft, fuzzy, silvery-grey foliage and is named for its subtle licorice-like scent, not because it is the source of the edible root. It is primarily grown for its attractive foliage and ground-covering properties, and it is not safe for consumption.
Conclusion: The Multifaceted Identity of Licorice
The question "is there another name for licorice?" reveals a fascinating world of etymology, botany, and cultural traditions. From the descriptive "sweetwood" to the medicinal "mulethi" and the precise botanical name Glycyrrhiza glabra, this single root is known by many aliases across the globe. For those in the UK, the spelling "liquorice" is the standard, while in Asia, it may be known by names like Gan Cao. Understanding these different names and contexts is crucial to appreciating the plant's diverse applications, whether as a flavoring agent, a traditional remedy, or even a decorative plant in a garden.
