NEW: Laughter, Licorice, and Jerry: Cancer Expert Joins Saranne

Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne welcomes back Jacqui Bryan for a playful yet deeply informative look at licorice—far beyond the plastic-wrapped movie snacks many remember from childhood. Together, they unravel the ancient medicinal legacy of licorice, focusing on the powerful healing properties of licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) in traditional Chinese medicine. As both a Stage IV cancer survivor and a nutrition expert, Jacqui shares how licorice root can support gut health, immunity, and even skin conditions, while also cautioning against its use for certain individuals, especially those with hormone-sensitive cancers or heart conditions. Throughout the episode, Saranne and Jacqui clarify common misconceptions, discuss who should and shouldn’t use licorice, and emphasize the importance of thoughtful integration of herbal remedies during cancer treatment.

 

Jacqui Bryan is a certified nutrition specialist, whole health educator, functional medicine expert, and health coach. With over two decades of personal experience following her own breast cancer diagnosis and years spent guiding individuals through complex health challenges, Jacqui brings a wealth of knowledge on the intersection of nutrition, traditional healing, and evidence-based care. Her compassionate approach empowers patients to make informed, holistic choices about their wellness journey.

 

"If you’re going to do this and you’re on active treatment or you’re on post-treatment, please talk to your medical team about this. It is really important that you don’t interfere with certain medications that they’re giving you and that this is done responsibly." ~Saranne

 

Today on Beating Cancer Daily:

·     Licorice root, not candy licorice, has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years and contains powerful therapeutic compounds.

·     Licorice supports gut health by coating the gut lining and may help alleviate issues such as leaky gut, indigestion, and heartburn.

·     The root can bolster immune health and has antiviral, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.

·     Licorice may offer soothing relief for sore throats and skin conditions, such as eczema and acne, due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

·     Certain people—including those who are pregnant, have heart, liver, or kidney issues, or with hormone-sensitive cancers—should avoid or use caution with licorice.

·     Licorice can affect blood pressure, especially when taken in forms containing glycyrrhiza, and should not be used excessively.

·     Best intake forms include teas, extracts, and supplements made with real licorice root, not artificially flavored candies.

·     Always consult your healthcare provider before adding herbal remedies, particularly during cancer treatment or if you are on medications

 

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in over 130 countries on 7 continents and has over 365 original daily episodes hosted by Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg!  

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

 

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

 

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To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The C