Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Glycyrrhiza, commonly known as licorice root, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda for the treatment of respiratory conditions, including bronchitis. In TCM, licorice is often included in herbal formulations to soothe the throat, reduce coughing, and mitigate inflammation in the airways. The rationale for its use is largely based on its demulcent (soothing) and expectorant properties, which are thought to help loosen mucus and ease breathing.

There is some limited scientific support for these traditional uses. Glycyrrhizin, a main active compound in licorice, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immunomodulatory effects in laboratory and animal studies. Some small clinical studies and reviews have suggested that licorice preparations may help alleviate cough and other symptoms associated with bronchitis, particularly as part of multi-herb formulations. However, robust, large-scale clinical trials specifically evaluating Glycyrrhiza as a monotherapy for bronchitis are lacking. The majority of modern evidence is therefore considered modest and primarily supportive of traditional uses, rather than definitive scientific validation. Caution is also needed due to potential side effects, such as hypertension and hypokalemia, with excessive or prolonged use of licorice root.

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