Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda. In these traditions, licorice root is often used as an adaptogen, believed to help the body cope with stress and to "tonify" the adrenal glands. The concept of "adrenal fatigue" itself, however, is not recognized in mainstream medicine; it is a term popularized by alternative practitioners to describe a collection of nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, body aches, and nervousness, supposedly due to chronic stress exhausting the adrenal glands.

Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which can inhibit the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, leading to prolonged activity of cortisol in the body. This mechanism has been explored in scientific studies, but mainly in the context of Addison’s disease (adrenal insufficiency) and not specifically for "adrenal fatigue." While some preliminary or animal studies suggest licorice may help modulate cortisol levels, robust clinical trials in humans for "adrenal fatigue" are lacking. Most support for licorice root in this context is therefore based on tradition rather than strong scientific validation. Additionally, licorice root can cause significant side effects, such as hypertension and hypokalemia, especially with prolonged use.

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