Synopsis

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

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and European herbalism, as a remedy for dry coughs and other respiratory ailments. In TCM, licorice is often used to "moisten the lungs" and soothe irritated mucous membranes, alleviating dry, unproductive coughs. Its demulcent properties are thought to coat the throat, reducing the urge to cough and easing discomfort. In Western herbal traditions, licorice is commonly found in cough syrups and herbal teas for its soothing effects.

While the traditional use of licorice root for dry cough is well established, scientific studies directly evaluating its efficacy for this specific symptom are limited. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that compounds in licorice, such as glycyrrhizin, possess anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and expectorant properties, which may contribute to its ability to alleviate cough and soothe the respiratory tract. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking or yield mixed results. Thus, while the biological plausibility exists, the evidence is not yet strong enough to fully validate its effectiveness by modern scientific standards.

In summary, licorice root's use for dry cough is primarily justified by a rich tradition of use in various cultures, supported by some promising, but not definitive, scientific findings. Caution is advised with prolonged use due to potential side effects such as hypertension and electrolyte imbalances.

More about licorice root
More about Cough (dry)

Other ingredients used for Cough (dry)

Other health conditions supported by licorice root

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