National Licorice Day

If you like something a little sweeter, why not munch on some licorice for Licorice Day. Favorite by a lot of people around the world, licorice has a special flavor and you can found it in many modern sweets.

National Licorice Day on April 12 each year honors licorice in all its forms. It also recognizes history, health benefits and distinctions around the world. You also won't be limited when it comes to licorice. There are many licorice candies, licorice strings, jelly beans, jewelry and more for you to enjoy!

History of National Licorice Day

Licorice is extracted from the licorice plant and can be used to make candy, flavor beverages (licorice tea is a common example), and it also has some special medicinal purposes.

The ancient Egyptians used licorice as a medicinal herb. In fact, a lot of it has been found in the tomb of King Tut and hieroglyphs have been found that suggest it was enjoyed as a beverage. Furthermore, both Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar and Napoleon Bonaparte are credited with using licorice for their health benefits.

It wasn't until the 17th century that records showed licorice was made into candy in the Netherlands. From there, sailors eventually shared this dish with people from other countries in Europe and eventually around the world. Now, this candy is produced not only in Europe but also in Australia and America.

National Licorice Day is created by Licorice International in 2004, in order to celebrate the rich history and unique flavor of licorice. Although black licorice is original, licorice also comes in many flavors and colors that are different from black. Therefore, for people who do not like the separated taste of black licorice, you can still celebrate the day with a different flavor!

How to celebrate National Licorice Day

If you're a lover of black licorice and find that it helps your belly feel more comfortable, that's why. Licorice root can soothe an upset stomach or soothe gastritis. There is glycyrrhizic acid in licorice that are useful in immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties that can help balance the stomach lining. It's definitely something to celebrate! Grab some black bean jelly from the candy jar for this holiday!

National Licorice Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate and enjoy all things licorice-related. Consider these ways to get your day back on track:

Try a new licorice

In addition to the standard flavors of licorice, such as black, strawberry, or cherry, people have access to a whole range of licorice candies. Licorice International is one of companies that have sales over 160 flavors of licorice at 14 different countries. Surely this will give anyone a chance to try something new.

Some of the most common types include:

• Sweet Finnish licorice. These are classic, short tube licorice candies, made with real licorice extract.
• Licorice powder. This is a unique dish passed down from the Old World; it looks exactly like a piece of school chalk but has a mint outside and licorice flavor on the inside.
• Black Licorice Caramels. True to what the name says, this soft creamy caramel is infused with flavors of black licorice.
• BlackJack chews gum. This classic licorice-flavored gum has been appeared since 1884; however, a manufacturer recently has committed to get it back.

Share Licorice with friends and family

There are some great ways to share your enjoyment of Licorice Day with friends and family as the references such as giving licorice as a gift, set aside some to share with colleagues. Let them try one of the unique and fun flavors listed above. Or, for those who enjoy being in the kitchen, try making this at home and then sharing.

Learn more about licorice

On this day, consider doing a little research to learn more about the history and health benefits of this important plant and its uses. Start with these fun facts:

• Licorice is a shrub (it's actually a weed!) and the root is what is used to make tea and confectionery.
• A compound called carbenoxolone from licorice may help slow the effects of aging on the brain gradually.
• Anise seeds are often used as a substitute for licorice flavor. It has a similar taste but not the same health benefits.