Licorice original: 甘草 (Gancao); specifically the species Glycyrrhiza uralensis, often called Ural Licorice

Licorice grows in the mountain valleys and plains of Hexi The Hexi Corridor in modern-day Gansu Province and Shangjun A historical commandery located in what is now northern Shaanxi Province, though it is now found in many regions. In spring, the plant sends up sprouts that reach two to three feet in height. Its leaves resemble those of the indigo plant original: 青黛 (qingdai) or a bean plant; the stems are covered in a bark that is purple-red in color.

In the fifth month of the lunar calendar; roughly mid-summer, it produces flowers that look like bean blossoms, appearing in shades of purple and white. Its seed pods are similar to those of a pea original: 豌豆 (wandou) but are smaller in size. The roots can grow to a length of three or four feet, varying in thickness. They are characterized by a reddish outer skin and yellow inner flesh; the flavor is remarkably sweet.

Because of its unique properties, this herb is also known as Guolao literally "The Imperial Tutor" or "State Elder". This title is a metaphor for the plant's function in pharmacology: much like a senior statesman who harmonizes a royal court, Licorice is used to balance the diverse properties of other medicinal ingredients, moderating toxicity and ensuring all the herbs in a formula work together effectively.