Synopsis

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

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, for the treatment of respiratory conditions such as lung congestion, cough, and bronchitis. In TCM, licorice is often included in herbal formulas for its purported ability to "clear heat," soothe the throat, and reduce phlegm. Historical texts from both Eastern and Western herbal traditions cite licorice root as an expectorant and demulcent, believed to help loosen and expel mucus from the lungs and soothe irritated airways. Modern scientific studies provide some evidence that licorice has anti-inflammatory, demulcent, and mild expectorant effects, primarily due to its glycyrrhizin content and other flavonoids. However, clinical trials directly supporting its effectiveness for lung congestion in humans are limited and generally of low quality, with most data coming from animal studies or in vitro experiments. The traditional use is stronger than the clinical evidence available, so the evidence level is rated as 2. While licorice may help soothe irritated airways and thin mucus, more robust clinical studies are needed to validate its efficacy for lung congestion.

More about Licorice (unspecified)
More about Congestion (lungs)

Other ingredients used for Congestion (lungs)

Other health conditions supported by Licorice (unspecified)

Products containing Licorice (unspecified)