Licorice and Jujube Decoction: Benefits, Recipe, and How to Make It

Popular Science of Licorice and Jujube Decoction Medicinal Diet

Introduction to Medicinal Diet

Gancao Dazao Tang (Licorice and Jujube Decoction) is a classic medicinal food formula from the Han dynasty physician Zhang Zhongjing’s *Jingui Yaolue* (Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber). Originally named “Ganmai Dazao Tang” (Licorice, Wheat, and Jujube Decoction), it was later simplified to just two core ingredients: Gancao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis, licorice root) and Dazao (Ziziphus jujuba, jujube date). This medicinal food is based on the principle of “sweet, relaxant, and tonifying the Middle,” with mild medicinal properties and a sweet taste. It is an outstanding representative of the “medicine and food share the same origin” concept in TCM medicinal cuisine. For thousands of years, Licorice and Jujube Decoction has been used by physicians throughout history to regulate patterns of Spleen-Stomach weakness and visceral agitation (Zang Zao), and has also been widely consumed as a daily health drink among the public, especially in the dry autumn and winter seasons or during times of emotional fluctuation.

The formula of Gancao Dazao Tang (Licorice and Jujube Decoction) is remarkably simple, yet it subtly embodies the principle of “sovereign-minister-assistant-envoy” in formula composition: Licorice (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) acts as the sovereign herb, supplementing the spleen and boosting qi, relaxing tension and alleviating pain; Jujube (Ziziphi Jujubae Fructus) serves as the minister herb, nourishing blood and calming the spirit, harmonizing the nutritive and defensive (ying and wei). Together, with their sweet and warm nature, they supplement the center, moisten dryness, and relieve tension, jointly achieving the effects of fortifying the spleen and nourishing the heart, calming the spirit and stabilizing the mind. Modern nutritional research has also found that glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid in licorice possess good anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, while jujube is rich in cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), vitamin C, and iron, which can effectively improve anemia and neurasthenia. For this reason, this seemingly ordinary medicinal food actually contains profound TCM wisdom and scientific connotation.

Efficacy of Medicinal Diet

Gancao Dazao Tang (Licorice and Jujube Decoction) has core functions that can be summarized as “tonifying the Spleen and boosting Qi, nourishing the Blood and calming the Spirit, relaxing tension and harmonizing the Middle.” For individuals suffering from Qi and Blood insufficiency and malnourishment of the Spirit due to excessive rumination and overwork damaging the Heart and Spleen—manifesting as spirit fatigue and lack of strength, sallow complexion, insomnia with excessive dreaming, palpitations, and forgetfulness—regular consumption of this decoction can gradually improve symptoms and restore vitality. In women around the menstrual period or during menopause, who are prone to emotional fluctuations, irritability, or episodes of sadness and crying as expressions of “visceral restlessness” (zàng zào), Gancao Dazao Tang, through its sweet-moistening effect to relax tension, nourish the Blood, and soften the Liver, can effectively calm emotions and stabilize the Spirit.

Furthermore, this medicinal food has a good regulatory effect on poor appetite, post-meal abdominal distension, and loose stools caused by spleen and stomach deficiency. The sweet and warm properties of licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) and jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) can warm and supplement spleen yang, enhance transportation and transformation functions, and promote nutrient absorption. Modern clinical observations indicate that long-term regular consumption of licorice and jujube decoction can provide adjunctive recovery support for digestive system disorders such as chronic gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, alleviating discomforts like dull epigastric pain, acid reflux, and heartburn. Additionally, due to licorice’s adrenocorticoid-like effect, this decoction can also enhance the body’s anti-stress capacity to a certain extent, helping the body adapt to seasonal changes and environmental stress.

Functions of Traditional Chinese Medicine

From the perspective of TCM nature, flavor, and meridian tropism theory, Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Licorice) is sweet in flavor and neutral in nature, and returns to the Heart (HT), Lung (LU), Spleen (SP), and Stomach (ST) meridians. It has five major functions: supplement the spleen and boost qi, clear heat and resolve toxins, expel phlegm and stop cough, relieve spasms and alleviate pain, and harmonize various medicinals. In Gan Cao Da Zao Tang (Licorice and Jujube Decoction), Licorice primarily takes effect by “supplementing the spleen and boosting qi” and “relieving spasms and alleviating pain.” Its sweet flavor can “relax,” thereby relieving epigastric and abdominal cramping pain and soothing tense and anxious emotions. Its warming and supplementing power can “supplement,” directly boosting the qi of the middle burner’s spleen and stomach, ensuring a source for the engendering and transformation of qi and blood. The Qing dynasty physician Xu Lingtai once praised Licorice as “the essence of the nine soils, able to supplement the insufficiency of the spleen and stomach,” fully reflecting its central role in the formula.

Ziziphus jujuba (jujube) has a sweet flavor and warm property, enters the Spleen, Stomach, and Heart meridians (SP, ST, HT). Its functions are to tonify the middle and boost qi, nourish blood and calm the spirit, and moderate the nature of other herbs. The effect of jujube in nourishing blood and calming the spirit is particularly prominent. Because of its red color, it enters the Heart; its round shape resembles the Spleen, enabling it to connect and harmonize the Heart and Spleen organs. The Spleen is the source of qi and blood production, and the Heart houses the spirit. By tonifying the Spleen, jujube ensures sufficient qi and blood, which then nourishes the heart-spirit, achieving the effect of calming the spirit and settling the mind. Modern pharmacological research has confirmed that the flavonoids in jujube have significant sedative and hypnotic effects, which highly correspond to the TCM theory of “nourishing blood and calming the spirit.” When combined with Glycyrrhiza uralensis (licorice), the sweet-sweet combination greatly enhances their strength. It not only directly tonifies the qi of the Heart and Spleen, but also uses the sweet and relaxing nature to pacify the rebellion of Liver qi. Thus, it is effective for abdominal pain due to Liver qi invading the Spleen, and for visceral agitation due to malnourishment of the Heart and Liver.

The essence of the compatibility of Licorice and Jujube Decoction (Gancao Dazao Tang)

The compatibility ratio of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (licorice) and Jujubae Fructus (jujube) is crucial for the efficacy of the medicinal diet. Traditional experience holds that the ratio of licorice to jujube should be around 1:3 to 1:5. If the dosage of licorice is too low, its power to tonify the Middle is insufficient; if too high, the sweetness becomes cloying and obstructs the Stomach. Jujubes must be broken or cut open during decoction to allow full extraction of active ingredients. Additionally, note that Licorice-Jujube Decoction should be taken warm, not cold, as cold ingestion easily damages the Spleen and Stomach yang qi and impairs the medicinal effect.

Suitable Population

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) and Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) Decoction (Gancao Dazao Tang) is especially suitable for daily regulation of the following groups: first, those with “Heart and Spleen Deficiency” (Xin Pi Liang Xu), commonly seen in mental workers, students, and office workers who frequently stay up late, presenting as mental fatigue, poor concentration, insomnia with excessive dreaming, and memory decline. This decoction can tonify the heart and spleen, calm the spirit, and improve mental acuity. Second, patients with “Visceral Agitation” (Zang Zao), more common in women, especially during the premenstrual period, postpartum, or menopause, with symptoms such as unexplained sadness, irritability and anger, inappropriate laughing and crying, and loss of self-control. This decoction, being sweet and moistening to relax tension, can effectively stabilize emotions.

Third, for those with Spleen and Stomach deficiency (Pi Wei Xu Ruo), including children with anorexia, elderly individuals with poor digestion, post-illness debilitation with reduced appetite, and chronic gastroenteritis patients presenting with poor appetite, sallow complexion, emaciation, and loose stools—regular consumption of this soup can fortify the Spleen and open the Stomach (Jian Pi Kai Wei) to promote absorption. Fourth, for those with Yin deficiency and blood insufficiency (Yin Xu Xue Shao) and dry skin—Jujubae Fructus (da zao, Chinese date) is rich in iron and vitamins, and combined with Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (gan cao, licorice)’s ability to nourish Yin and moisten dryness, can improve the pattern of “blood deficiency with wind-dryness” (Xue Xu Feng Zao) manifesting as pallor, pruritus, and dry, brittle hair. Fifth, for those with long-term hoarseness and chronic pharyngitis—Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma has the effects of transforming phlegm, stopping cough, benefiting the throat, and opening the voice; Jujubae Fructus can moisten the Lung and engender fluids. Together, they can be used as a daily voice-care beverage.

Contraindications

Although Gan Cao Da Zao Tang (Licorice and Jujube Decoction) has a mild and balanced nature, there are still some contraindications to be observed. First, it should not be taken by individuals with excessive dampness causing epigastric and abdominal fullness, or internal retention of phlegm-fluid. Typical manifestations include epigastric and abdominal distension and fullness, stuffiness and discomfort, a thick and greasy tongue coating, profuse phlegm with cough and dyspnea, etc. This is because both Gan Cao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, Licorice) and Da Zao (Jujubae Fructus, Chinese Date/Jujube) are sweet in taste and cloying in nature, which can easily assist dampness, generate phlegm, and aggravate abdominal distension. Second, patients with edema should use it with caution. Gan Cao (Licorice) has an aldosterone-like effect; long-term or high-dose administration may lead to water and sodium retention, worsening edema symptoms. Those suffering from chronic nephritis, cardiogenic edema, or cirrhotic ascites should use it under the guidance of a qualified physician.

Third, patients with hypertension should use caution. Glycyrrhizic acid in Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Licorice) can induce pseudoaldosteronism, leading to elevated blood pressure and decreased serum potassium. Therefore, hypertensive patients should avoid prolonged and excessive use of Licorice and Jujube Decoction. Fourth, diabetic patients must strictly control dosage. Jujubae Fructus (Jujube) has a high sugar content, approximately 60–70%; if consumed, corresponding reductions in staple food intake should be made, or a nutrition specialist should be consulted. Fifth, pregnant and lactating women should not consume excessive amounts, particularly during early pregnancy, as high doses of Licorice may increase the risk of miscarriage; use under the guidance of a TCM practitioner is recommended. Sixth, this formula is contraindicated for individuals with allergies to Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Licorice) or Jujubae Fructus (Jujube).

Ingredient Formula Ratio

The standard formula for the Classic Licorice and Jujube Decoction (Gan Cao Da Zao Tang) is: honey-fried licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle) 6 g, jujube (Ziziphus jujuba, Fructus Jujubae) 20 g. If raw licorice (Sheng Gan Cao) is used, its qi-tonifying action is slightly weaker, while its heat-clearing and detoxifying effect is somewhat stronger; it may be selected flexibly according to the individual’s constitution. Below is the recommended ratio, accurate to the gram:

6 g honey-fried licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis, approximately 12-15 medium-sized pieces), 20 g Chinese jujube (Ziziphus jujuba, about 4-5 medium-sized Xinjiang jujubes or 6-8 small golden-thread jujubes). One dose daily. Decoct twice, combine the decoctions, and take warm in two divided portions, morning and evening. If using to improve sleep, take one warm dose one hour before bedtime. For daily health maintenance, consume 3-5 times per week. After 2-3 consecutive weeks, discontinue for one week, then resume as needed. If used as an adjunctive treatment, it is recommended to take one month as a course of therapy, then evaluate the effect and adjust the regimen.

Preparation Method

First, prepare the ingredients. Take 6 grams of Honey-fried Licorice (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma Praeparata cum Melle), and quickly rinse it once with clean water to remove any dust, but do not soak it for too long to prevent loss of active components. Take 20 grams of Chinese Dates (Ziziphi Jujubae Fructus), soak them in warm water for 5 minutes to soften the skin, then rinse under running water. Using a small knife, make three to four shallow cuts on the surface of each date, or simply split each date in half by hand, ensuring the flesh is exposed so that the active constituents can be fully released during decoction.

Step 2: Decoction of the medicinal soup. Place the prepared Radix Glycyrrhizae (Licorice) and Fructus Ziziphi Jujubae (Chinese Date) together in a clay pot or casserole, and add 600 mL of purified water (approximately three bowls of water). First, bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, skim off any foam floating on the surface, then reduce to a low heat and simmer gently, maintaining a slight simmer for 30 to 40 minutes. You may cover the pot during decoction to minimize evaporation of active constituents, but leave a small gap to prevent overflow. When the liquid has reduced to about 200 mL (approximately one bowl), turn off the heat, strain the decoction through a sieve to remove the dregs, and obtain the first decoction.

Step 3: Second Decoction (Recommended Method). Return the herbal dregs from the first decoction to the pot, add 400 ml of clean water, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat and continue decocting for 20–25 minutes. Strain to obtain the second decoction. Combine the two decoctions thoroughly, yielding approximately 300–350 ml of a clear, brownish-red liquid with a sweet and mellow taste. Administer in two divided doses, warm, in the morning and evening, about 150–180 ml per dose. If the sweetness is not preferred, a small amount of cool boiled water may be added to dilute when taking warm, but do not add sugar or honey to avoid affecting the medicinal efficacy.

Drinking Tips

1. The timing of consumption is important. The best times to consume are between 9–11 AM (when the Spleen Meridian is active) and 3–5 PM (when the Bladder Meridian is active). During these periods, the body’s digestive and absorptive functions are robust, making it easier for the medicinal effects to be absorbed and utilized. If used for calming the mind and promoting sleep, it can be taken warm 1.5 hours before bedtime, but should not be taken immediately before sleep to avoid increased nocturia disrupting sleep.

2. Pay attention to post-consumption bodily reactions. After taking Gan Cao Da Zao Tang (Licorice and Jujube Decoction), mild thirst and increased urination are normal phenomena, as Glycyrrhiza uralensis (licorice) has a diuretic effect. However, if persistent abdominal distension, bitter taste in the mouth, or a thick, greasy tongue coating occur, this may indicate that “sweetness causes Middle Jiao fullness (甘能满中),” suggesting a Dampness-predominant constitution or excessive dosage. In such cases, discontinue use and consult a TCM practitioner to adjust the formula. It is recommended not to take it continuously for more than four weeks. For long-term use, follow the “take three days, stop one day (服三停一)” principle (take for three days, then skip one day).

Modifications for special situations. If accompanied by mild external contraction of wind-cold, nasal congestion with clear nasal discharge, add 3 slices of Zingiber officinale (fresh ginger) and 2 sections of Allium fistulosum (scallion white) to the decoction to enhance the effect of releasing the exterior and dispersing cold. For cough with copious phlegm and throat discomfort, add 6g of Platycodon grandiflorum (platycodon root) and 10g of Ophiopogon japonicus (ophiopogon root) to strengthen the action of diffusing the lung and benefiting the throat. For women with pronounced menstrual abdominal pain, add 15g of brown sugar and 6g of Zingiber officinale (dried ginger) to enhance the effect of warming the meridians, dispersing cold, and relieving pain. All modifications are recommended to be carried out under the guidance of a TCM practitioner to ensure safety and efficacy.

4. Avoid concomitant use with certain drugs. Gancao Dazao Decoction (Licorice and Jujube Decoction) should not be used together with Chinese herbs such as Sargassum (Hai Zao), Euphorbia (Da Ji), Kansui (Gan Sui), and Genkwa (Yuan Hua), because licorice is incompatible with them according to the “Eighteen Incompatibilities” (Shi Ba Fan). Additionally, while taking Western medications such as cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin), diuretics, or glucocorticoids, consumption of large amounts of Gancao Dazao Decoction should also be avoided to prevent potential drug interactions. If you are currently undergoing drug therapy, please consult a physician or pharmacist.