Licorice root is Glycyrrhiza glabra. Do not confuse the flavor of licorice with that of anise, which is not related & is quite different when tasted side by side. Licorice has been used for everything from cough remedies to ulcer cures. The root imparts a very characteristic flavor & is surprisingly sweet. It contains glycyrrhizin, a substance 50 times sweeter than sugar, & is often added to chocolate to enhance sweetness.