Licorice Root

herb Verified

Specifically for Bronchitis

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Why it works for Bronchitis:

Expectorant & antitussive actions (traditional + preclinical): European regulators list licorice root as a traditional herbal expectorant for “cold-related coughs/bronchial catarrh,” i.e., the mucus-y cough typical of acute bronchitis. This is based on long-standing use, not modern RCTs. European Medicines Agency (EMA)

Mechanisms seen in lab/animal models: Licorice constituents (e.g., liquiritin, liquiritigenin) reduced cough frequency and increased airway secretions in mouse models; glycyrrhizin/glycyrrhetinic acid show anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects that could be relevant to infectious bronchitis. (These data support plausibility but aren’t proof in people.) ScienceDirect

Bottom line on effectiveness: For bronchitis specifically, high-quality human trials are scarce; licorice’s use here is largely traditional/adjunctive. If symptoms are severe, persistent (>3 weeks), or you’re breathless/feverish, seek medical care. Caring Sunshine

How to use for Bronchitis:

Authoritative European monographs give practical dosing for products made from Liquiritiae radix (licorice root). These dosages are for short-term use in adults unless otherwise advised by a clinician:

Tea (herbal infusion):
Steep 1.5 g of comminuted/dried licorice root in ~150 mL boiling water; take twice daily. A decoction (simmered in water) using the same amount is an alternative. European Medicines Agency (EMA)
Soft extract (DER 3:1, water):
1.2–1.5 g, 3–4× daily (follow your specific product label for exact strength). European Medicines Agency (EMA)

Additional practical points:

Duration: Most authorities advise short courses only (e.g., a few days up to 2 weeks for an acute cough) and to avoid long-term use, especially with glycyrrhizin-containing products. NCCIH
Children: HMPC monograph does not recommend use under 18 without professional advice; if considering pediatric use, speak with a clinician first. European Medicines Agency (EMA)
DGL vs. whole licorice: “Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL)” removes glycyrrhizin to reduce side-effects. That’s useful for GI uses, but there’s no clear evidence DGL helps cough/bronchitis—most traditional uses used whole licorice. Weigh this against the safety issues below. WebMD

Scientific Evidence for Bronchitis:

Regulatory monographs (traditional-use status):

The EMA’s HMPC monograph recognizes licorice root as a traditional medicine for expectorant use in cough/bronchial catarrh; it sets dosing and safety expectations but explicitly notes the evidence is from tradition, not “well-established” clinical efficacy. European Medicines Agency (EMA)

Human trials specifically in bronchitis:

Modern, rigorous RCTs of licorice alone for acute or chronic bronchitis are limited. There are small or lower-quality clinical reports and traditional-medicine formulations containing licorice that showed improvements in cough scores, but methods/products vary and the trials aren’t definitive. (Example: a Persian-medicine licorice dosage form improved symptom scores vs placebo over 2 weeks in acute cough/bronchitis-like illness; details limited behind paywall.) ScienceDirect

Preclinical data:

Mouse studies demonstrate antitussive/expectorant activity of specific licorice flavonoids; reviews summarize anti-inflammatory/antiviral actions of glycyrrhizin/glycyrrhetinic acid against respiratory pathogens. These support plausibility for symptomatic relief but do not prove clinical benefit in bronchitis. ScienceDirect

Specific Warnings for Bronchitis:

Blood pressure, potassium & heart rhythm:

Glycyrrhizin can cause pseudohyperaldosteronism → high blood pressure, low potassium, fluid retention, and arrhythmias—sometimes even with modest intakes or short use in susceptible people. Avoid if you have hypertension, heart, kidney, or liver disease unless a clinician okays it. NCCIH

Medication interactions:

Licorice may interact with diuretics, antihypertensives (e.g., spironolactone), digoxin, warfarin, corticosteroids, insulin/oral hypoglycemics, and others. Check interactions if you take any regular medicines. Drugs.com

Pregnancy & breastfeeding:

Avoid in pregnancy; high glycyrrhizin exposure has been linked to adverse fetal outcomes. Insufficient safety data in breastfeeding. NCCIH

Duration limits:

Consumer health agencies advise short-term use only; long-term daily use or high doses raise risk substantially. NCCIH

Not all “licorice” is licorice:

Many candies use anise flavoring (no glycyrrhizin); conversely, some teas/supplements contain real licorice with glycyrrhizin—read labels. MSD Manuals

Back to Bronchitis

General Information (All Ailments)

Note: You are viewing ailment-specific information above. This section shows the general remedy information for all conditions.

What It Is

Licorice root comes from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, native to parts of Europe and Asia. It has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and ancient Greek and Egyptian healing. The root contains several bioactive compounds, most notably glycyrrhizin, which gives it both its characteristic sweet flavor and many of its pharmacological properties.

Licorice root can be consumed in various forms—such as teas, extracts, capsules, or tinctures—and is often found in herbal blends designed for digestive health, respiratory support, or adrenal balance.

How It Works

The key active compound, glycyrrhizin, has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant effects. It influences several physiological systems in the body:

Endocrine and Adrenal Support: Glycyrrhizin inhibits the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which breaks down cortisol. By slowing cortisol metabolism, licorice root can enhance and prolong the effects of this hormone, potentially helping with adrenal fatigue or chronic stress.
Anti-inflammatory and Immune Effects: The compound modulates immune responses and suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines. It can support conditions involving inflammation of the respiratory or digestive tract, such as sore throats, coughs, or gastritis.
Antiviral and Antimicrobial Properties: Research has shown licorice extract may inhibit the replication of certain viruses, including hepatitis C and herpes simplex virus. Its saponins and flavonoids contribute to this protective effect.
Digestive Protection: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a modified form where glycyrrhizin has been removed to reduce side effects. DGL supports mucous membrane healing, making it popular for soothing stomach ulcers, heartburn, or gastritis.

Why It’s Important

Licorice root holds importance as both a therapeutic and preventive botanical:

Adaptogenic-Like Benefits: It helps the body adapt to stress by supporting cortisol levels, improving energy, and reducing fatigue.
Respiratory Health: Traditionally used as an expectorant and demulcent, it soothes sore throats, eases coughs, and reduces irritation in the bronchial passages.
Digestive Wellness: It aids in the protection and repair of gastrointestinal tissues, which can benefit those with acid reflux or ulcers.
Liver and Skin Health: Licorice root’s antioxidant and detoxifying properties may support liver function and help manage skin conditions like eczema or acne.

Its broad range of uses makes it a cornerstone herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine.

Considerations

Despite its benefits, licorice root must be used carefully due to its potency:

Glycyrrhizin-Related Side Effects: Excessive intake of glycyrrhizin can lead to a condition called pseudoaldosteronism, characterized by sodium retention, potassium loss, high blood pressure, and swelling (edema).
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) as a Safer Option: DGL provides many of the digestive benefits without affecting mineral balance or blood pressure, making it preferable for long-term use.
Interactions and Contraindications: Licorice root can interact with diuretics, corticosteroids, antihypertensive drugs, and certain heart medications. It is not recommended for individuals with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart conditions unless supervised by a healthcare provider.
Duration of Use: Continuous use of glycyrrhizin-containing licorice for more than a few weeks is generally discouraged without medical guidance.
Pregnancy and Hormonal Effects: Licorice may affect hormone levels and is generally advised against during pregnancy due to potential risks to fetal development.

Helps with these conditions

Licorice Root is most effective for general wellness support with emerging research . The effectiveness varies by condition based on clinical evidence and user experiences.

Acid Reflux (GERD) 0% effective

Constipation 0% effective

Stomach Ulcers 0% effective

Asthma 0% effective

Eczema 0% effective

Tooth Decay 0% effective

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Acid Reflux (GERD)

0% effective

Mucosal-protective effect. Licorice contains flavonoids and other compounds that appear to stimulate mucus production and strengthen the protective mu...

0 votes Updated 1 month ago 8 studies cited

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