Synopsis

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

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long history of use in traditional systems of medicine, including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Unani, for a variety of health concerns. In the context of hair care, its use is primarily justified by tradition rather than robust scientific evidence. Traditional practitioners have used licorice root topically and internally to address scalp conditions such as dandruff, dry scalp, and hair loss. The rationale is often based on its purported anti-inflammatory, demulcent (soothing), and antimicrobial properties, which may help improve scalp health and, indirectly, hair growth or quality.

Some traditional remedies involve making licorice root pastes or infusions and applying them to the scalp to soothe irritation and support hair follicle function. In Ayurveda, licorice is sometimes recommended for treating "pitta" imbalances that can manifest as scalp inflammation or hair thinning.

From a scientific standpoint, there is limited direct research on licorice root’s effectiveness for hair care in humans. Some laboratory studies suggest that licorice contains glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that could theoretically benefit scalp health. However, evidence from clinical trials is lacking, and most of the support for licorice root in hair care remains anecdotal or based on traditional practice rather than validated science.

In summary, licorice root’s use in hair care is largely traditional, with limited scientific evidence to substantiate its effectiveness for this purpose.

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Other ingredients used for Hair Care (general)

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