Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, for supporting respiratory health, including bronchial function. Its traditional uses include soothing sore throats, relieving coughs, and addressing bronchitis. The primary active compound, glycyrrhizin, exhibits anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and demulcent properties, which may help alleviate irritation of the bronchial tubes.

From a scientific perspective, preclinical and some clinical studies suggest that licorice extracts can exert beneficial effects on the respiratory tract. Glycyrrhizin and other constituents demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine production and inhibiting inflammatory pathways. Additionally, licorice has been shown to have expectorant effects, helping to thin and expel mucus from the airways in animal studies and small human trials.

However, while these findings are promising, high-quality, large-scale clinical trials in humans are limited, which tempers the strength of scientific validation. Safety is also a consideration; excessive intake of licorice can cause significant side effects such as hypertension and hypokalemia. Overall, licorice's use to support the bronchial system is partially validated by both tradition and emerging scientific research, but more robust human studies are needed to fully substantiate its efficacy and safety for this purpose.