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

Popular Science of Licorice and Jujube Decoction as a Dietary Support

Introduction to Dietary Support

Gancao Dazao Tang (Licorice and Jujube Decoction) is a classic herbal 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 dietary formula is based on the principle of “sweet, relaxant, and tonifying the Middle,” with mild properties and a sweet taste. It is an outstanding representative of the “food as medicine” concept in traditional dietary practices. For thousands of years, Licorice and Jujube Decoction has been used by herbalists throughout history to support patterns of digestive and emotional balance, and has also been widely consumed as a daily wellness beverage, 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 a harmonious blend of ingredients: Licorice (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) acts as the primary herb, supporting the spleen and promoting energy, soothing tension and comfort; Jujube (Ziziphi Jujubae Fructus) serves as the supporting herb, nourishing blood and calming the spirit, harmonizing the body’s protective and nutritive functions. Together, with their sweet and warm nature, they support the center, moisten dryness, and relieve tension, jointly promoting digestive and heart health, and emotional calmness. Modern nutritional research has also found that glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid in licorice possess antioxidant and immune-supporting properties, while jujube is rich in cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), vitamin C, and iron, which can help maintain healthy blood and nerve function. For this reason, this seemingly ordinary dietary formula actually contains profound traditional wisdom and scientific connotation.

Supportive Properties of the Dietary Formula

Gancao Dazao Tang (Licorice and Jujube Decoction) offers supportive benefits that can be summarized as nourishing the spleen and promoting energy, comforting the blood and calming the spirit, and soothing tension while harmonizing the body’s center. For individuals experiencing occasional fatigue, lack of vigor, or restlessness due to mental overwork or stress—such as feeling tired, having a pale complexion, or difficulty unwinding at night—regular consumption of this decoction may gradually help restore a sense of vitality and calm. In women around their monthly cycle or during transitional life stages, who may experience emotional ups and downs, irritability, or occasional sadness, Licorice and Jujube Decoction, through its sweet-moistening effect, can help soothe emotions and support emotional balance.

Furthermore, this dietary formula can help support healthy appetite, digestive comfort after meals, and regular bowel movements for those with occasional digestive sluggishness. The sweet and warm properties of licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) and jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) can help warm and support digestive warmth, enhance nutrient absorption, and promote overall digestive wellness. Traditional observations indicate that long-term regular consumption of licorice and jujube decoction may provide comfort for occasional digestive discomfort, such as mild stomach upset or occasional acid sensation. Additionally, due to licorice’s natural adaptogenic-like properties, this decoction may also help the body better cope with daily stress and seasonal changes.

Traditional Understanding of Ingredients

From the perspective of traditional herbal wisdom, Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Licorice) is sweet in flavor and neutral in nature, and is associated with the heart, lung, spleen, and stomach systems. It is traditionally valued for five supportive actions: nourishing the spleen and promoting energy, helping to clear heat and support detoxification, aiding in respiratory comfort, soothing occasional muscle tension, and harmonizing various herbs in a formula. In Gan Cao Da Zao Tang (Licorice and Jujube Decoction), Licorice primarily takes effect by nourishing the spleen and promoting energy, and by soothing tension to promote comfort. Its sweet quality is believed to “relax,” thereby helping to ease occasional digestive cramping and soothe tense or anxious feelings. Its warming and nourishing power can “supplement,” directly supporting the energy of the digestive system, ensuring a source for the generation and circulation of vital substances. Historical herbalists have praised Licorice as “the essence of the nine soils, able to support the needs of the spleen and stomach,” reflecting its central role in the formula.

Ziziphus jujuba (jujube) has a sweet flavor and warm property, and is associated with the spleen, stomach, and heart systems. Its traditional uses include helping to nourish the middle and support energy, comfort blood and calm the spirit, and moderate the nature of other herbs. The effect of jujube in comforting blood and calming the spirit is particularly noted. Because of its red color, it is linked to the heart; its round shape resembles the spleen, enabling it to support the connection between heart and digestive functions. The spleen is considered a source of energy and blood production, and the heart houses the spirit. By nourishing the spleen, jujube helps ensure sufficient energy and blood, which then supports the heart-spirit, promoting a sense of calm and stability. Modern pharmacological research has confirmed that flavonoids in jujube have soothing and relaxing effects, which highly correspond to the traditional understanding of “nourishing blood and calming the spirit.” When combined with Glycyrrhiza uralensis (licorice), the sweet-sweet combination enhances their supportive qualities. It not only directly nourishes the energy of the heart and spleen, but also uses the sweet and relaxing nature to promote harmony in the body’s systems, thus being helpful for occasional digestive tension and emotional imbalance.

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 key to the formula’s supportive effects. 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 nourishing effect may be insufficient; if too high, the sweetness may become overly cloying. Jujubes should be broken or cut open during decoction to allow full extraction of active ingredients. Additionally, note that Licorice-Jujube Decoction is best enjoyed warm, not cold, as cold consumption may reduce its soothing qualities.

Suitable Population

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) and Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) Decoction (Gancao Dazao Tang) is especially suitable for daily support of the following groups: first, those experiencing occasional mental fatigue and difficulty concentrating, commonly seen in students, office workers, and individuals under regular mental strain. This decoction can help support mental clarity and a calm spirit. Second, those who experience emotional sensitivity or mood swings, more common in women during premenstrual, postpartum, or transitional life stages, with symptoms such as occasional sadness, irritability, or feeling unsettled. This decoction, being sweet and moistening, can help soothe emotions.

Third, for those with occasional digestive weakness, including children with sporadic loss of appetite, elderly individuals with slower digestion, or those recovering after illness with reduced interest in food—regular consumption of this soup can help support digestive wellness and promote nutrient absorption. Fourth, for those with occasional dry skin or lack of luster—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 and moisten, can help maintain healthy skin and hair. Fifth, for those with occasional throat dryness or hoarseness—Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma is traditionally used to support respiratory comfort and throat clarity; Jujubae Fructus can help moisten and soothe. Together, they can be used as a daily throat-support beverage.

Precautions

Although Gan Cao Da Zao Tang (Licorice and Jujube Decoction) has a mild and balanced nature, there are still some considerations to keep in mind. First, it may not be suitable for individuals who experience frequent bloating, heaviness, or a coated tongue associated with excess dampness. Typical manifestations include persistent abdominal fullness, stuffiness, or a thick, greasy tongue coating. This is because both Gan Cao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, Licorice) and Da Zao (Jujubae Fructus, Chinese Date/Jujube) are sweet and rich, which may occasionally contribute to digestive sluggishness. Second, individuals who are prone to water retention or swelling should use it with caution, as Licorice may lead to temporary fluid retention when consumed in large amounts. Those managing chronic conditions such as kidney function or heart health should consult a healthcare professional before use.

Third, individuals managing blood pressure should use caution. Glycyrrhizic acid in Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Licorice) may, in some individuals, affect blood pressure and potassium levels. Therefore, those with blood pressure concerns should avoid prolonged or excessive use of Licorice and Jujube Decoction. Fourth, individuals monitoring blood sugar levels must consider that Jujubae Fructus (Jujube) contains natural sugars; if consumed, appropriate dietary adjustments may be needed, or a nutrition specialist should be consulted. Fifth, pregnant and lactating women should consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before use, especially during early pregnancy, as high doses of Licorice are best avoided without guidance. Sixth, this formula is not recommended for individuals with known 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 nourishing action is slightly milder, while its cooling qualities are somewhat more prominent; it may be selected flexibly according to individual preference. 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 serving daily. Decoct twice, combine the liquids, and take warm in two divided portions, morning and evening. If using to support restful sleep, take one warm portion one hour before bedtime. For daily wellness, consume 3-5 times per week. After 2-3 consecutive weeks, take a one-week break, then resume as needed. If used as a complementary support, it is recommended to take one month, then evaluate the effect and adjust accordingly.

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 herbal mixture. 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 cups 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, but leave a small gap to prevent overflow. When the liquid has reduced to about 200 mL (approximately one cup), turn off the heat, strain the liquid through a sieve to remove the solids, and obtain the first decoction.

Step 3: Second Decoction (Recommended Method). Return the solids 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 simmering for 20–25 minutes. Strain to obtain the second decoction. Combine the two liquids 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 serving. 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 altering the intended qualities.

Drinking Tips

1. The timing of consumption is important. The best times to consume are between 9–11 AM (when digestive energy is traditionally strong) and 3–5 PM (when the body’s elimination functions are active). During these periods, the body’s digestive and absorptive functions are robust, making it easier for the beneficial components to be utilized. If used for promoting calmness and restful sleep, it can be taken warm 1.5 hours before bedtime, but should not be taken immediately before sleep to avoid increased urination disrupting rest.

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 natural diuretic effect. However, if persistent abdominal bloating, a bitter taste in the mouth, or a thick, greasy tongue coating occur, this may indicate that the formula is too rich for one’s constitution. In such cases, discontinue use and consult a qualified herbalist for guidance. 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” principle (take for three days, then skip one day).

3. Modifications for special situations. If experiencing mild cold symptoms such as occasional nasal congestion with clear discharge, add 3 slices of Zingiber officinale (fresh ginger) and 2 sections of Allium fistulosum (scallion white) to the decoction to help support warmth and comfort. For occasional cough with phlegm or throat discomfort, add 6g of Platycodon grandiflorum (platycodon root) and 10g of Ophiopogon japonicus (ophiopogon root) to support respiratory comfort. For women with pronounced menstrual cramping, add 15g of brown sugar and 6g of Zingiber officinale (dried ginger) to enhance warming comfort. All modifications are recommended to be carried out under the guidance of a qualified herbalist to ensure safety and effectiveness.

4. Avoid concomitant use with certain substances. Gancao Dazao Decoction (Licorice and Jujube Decoction) should not be used together with certain herbs such as Sargassum, Euphorbia, Kansui, and Genkwa, as interactions are noted in traditional knowledge. Additionally, while taking medications such as heart-supporting drugs (e.g., digoxin), diuretics, or corticosteroids, consumption of large amounts of Gancao Dazao Decoction should also be avoided to prevent potential interactions. If you are currently undergoing drug therapy, please consult a physician or pharmacist before use.