What Are Licorice Root's Benefits?

Licorice Root Elixir 

Potential benefits 

Current research shows promise for several of licorice root’s medicinal uses, but it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully support these potential benefits.

May aid skin conditions

Research suggests licorice root extract may help treat a variety of skin conditions, such as acne and eczema.

What’s more, a 2019 study found that a cream containing licorice root, gentian root, and willow bark extract was as effective as a 1% hydrocortisone cream in treating eczema symptoms.

May reduce acid reflux and indigestion

Licorice root extract may be used to help relieve symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), such as acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion.

A 2017 study in 58 adults with GERD found that taking licorice root daily was more effective at reducing symptoms over a 2-year period than commonly used antacids.

Learn more about herbs and supplements for GERD and acid reflux.

May help treat peptic ulcers

Licorice root extract and its glycyrrhizin may help treat peptic ulcers. These painful sores develop in your stomach, lower esophagus, or small intestine as a result of H. pyloribacteria.

A 2023 animal study found that licorice flavonoid could help relieve peptic ulcers by increasing mucus production, reducing inflammation, and improving gut microbiome.

A 2016 study in 120 adults found that consuming licorice extract in addition to a standard treatment significantly reduced the presence of H. pylori after 2 weeks.

May have anticancer properties

Licorice root extract is being studied for its protective effects against certain types of cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute animal studies have found that licorice root helped slow or prevent cell growth in skin, colorectal, and breast cancer.

As research is limited to test tubes and animals, its effects on human cancers are unknown.

However, research suggests that licorice root extract may be as effective as the standard treatment for oral mucositis, a side effect of chemotherapy.

May ease upper respiratory conditions

A 2019 review found that glycyrrhizin extract from licorice root may help relieve asthma due to its anti-inflammatory properties. The authors also suggest it may be the asthma treatment with the fewest potential side effects.

Another 2019 study found licorice root tea and extract may protect against strep throat.

However, further research is needed.

May protect against cavities

Research suggests that licorice root may help protect against cavities and treat the following oral health conditions:

• oral thrush
• canker sores
• tooth decay
• periodontitis

However, more research is needed on the optimal dose and form of licorice root for oral health.

Other potential benefits

Licorice root extract is tied to several other potential benefits, such as:

• Aiding diabetes
• reducing menopause symptoms
• boosting weight loss
• treating hepatitis C

However, more research is needed to fully support these benefits.

 

Borrowed from HealthLine