Licorice root is a great source of the female hormone estrogen. It is used for coughs and chest ailments. It is an important herb to use when recovering from an illness, as it supplies needed energy to the system. Used as a remedy for stomach and heart problems, indigestion, and most respiratory ailments including asthma. Should not be used by pregnant women as it can sometimes lead to high blood pressure with prolonged use. Licorice has many applications, ranging from supporting digestive and urinary tracts, to soothing mucous membranes. It has also proven effective in inactivating Herpes simplex virus particles irreversibly.