Synopsis

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

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 supporting respiratory health and preventing or treating colds. In TCM, licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis or Glycyrrhiza glabra) is often included in herbal formulas aimed at relieving coughs, soothing sore throats, and reducing inflammation related to upper respiratory tract infections. The traditional rationale for its use is based on licorice's purported expectorant, demulcent, and anti-inflammatory properties, which are thought to help alleviate symptoms of colds and support the immune system.

There is some preclinical evidence suggesting that glycyrrhizin, a key component of licorice root, exhibits antiviral and immunomodulatory effects in vitro and in animal studies. However, robust clinical trials in humans specifically examining the preventive effects of Glycyrrhiza for colds are lacking. Most of the scientific support is indirect, and therefore, the evidence is rated moderate to low (2 out of 5). Licorice continues to be widely used in folk remedies and traditional formulations for cold prevention, but its efficacy for this purpose has not been conclusively demonstrated in modern clinical research.

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