Licorice root: What the Evidence Actually Says

Before spending money on Licorice root, it's fair to ask what the evidence looks like. The honest picture, below, is more interesting than the ads.

What studies actually support

One of the better-studied areas: the use of a licorice gargle or licorice lozenges before surgery might help to prevent or lessen the severity of sore throat following intubation. Preliminary evidence has suggested that topical gels containing licorice root might be helpful for atopic dermatitis (eczema) symptoms or burn healing, but more research is needed to study effects and confirm safety. One preliminary study indicated that a mouthwash with licorice extract might improve halitosis (bad breath) and reduce halitosis-causing bacteria.

Where tradition goes further

Chinese medicine uses Licorice root for a different set of reasons than the trials test. Classically, it moistens the lung and relieves dry cough and sore throat. Judged by pattern signs rather than by a diagnosis code. Both lenses can be true at once: the tradition describes who it suits, the trials measure what it changes.

The safety picture

A few cautions from the research literature: oral licorice products that don't contain glycyrrhizin (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) might be safe for up to 4 months.

The bottom line

Treat Licorice root as a gentle, food-level tool rather than a treatment. If a specific health problem is driving the search, that problem deserves a proper diagnosis first; herbs fit around it, not instead of it.

Start low, watch how your body responds, and give it a fair run of a few weeks before judging. If something feels wrong, stop; that feedback matters more than any article.