Research

Licorice Root

66 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.

8
Meta-analyses
5
Systematic reviews
45
RCTs
8
Other studies
Meta-analyses (12%)
Systematic reviews (8%)
RCTs (68%)
Observational (3%)

Studies

Sorted by quality and recency

2024·Phytotherapy research : PTR·Ilaria Giangrandi, Monica Dinu, Antonia Napoletano, et al

Licorice and liver function in patients with primary liver disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs.

Meta-analysisn = 1,367

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of licorice formulations on liver function enzymes in patients with primary liver disease. Analysis of 15 RCTs with 1367 participants showed that licorice significantly reduced ALT and AST levels compared to controls, with purified glycyrrhizic acid compounds being particularly effective. The safety profile was consistent with known mild side effects.

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2024·Nutrients·Tianyu Wu, Jingyi Yang, Jiayue Xia, et al

Effects of Licorice Functional Components Intakes on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis and NETWORK Toxicology.

Meta-analysisn = 541Heart Health

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 8 RCTs with 541 participants investigating the effects of licorice functional components on blood pressure. Glycyrrhizic acid (GA) increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure, while licorice flavonoids (LF) had no significant effect. The hypertensive mechanism of GA may involve modulation of specific genes affecting nitrogen metabolism pathways.

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2023·The journal of evidence-based dental practice·Yung On Cheng, Sajesh K Veettil, M Sakil Syeed, et al

COMPARATIVE EFFICACY OF THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF RECURRENT APHTHOUS ULCERS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND NETWORK META-ANALYSIS.

Meta-analysisn = 2,773

Systematic review and network meta-analysis of 38 trials involving 2773 patients to assess the efficacy of interventions for recurrent aphthous ulcers. Diode laser and acacia nilotica with licorice formulation were among the most effective for reducing ulcer diameter. Most trials reported no adverse effects.

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2023·Iranian journal of medical sciences·Fereshteh Dorsareh, Gita Vahid-Dastjerdi, Abdelhakim Bouyahya, et al

Topical Licorice for Aphthous: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials.

Systematic reviewn = 314Inflammation

Systematic review of clinical trials on the therapeutic effect of topical licorice for recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS). Six studies with 314 subjects showed licorice significantly reduces RAS pain, ulcer size, and healing time due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Licorice was used in various forms, including paste, patch, and mouthwash, with no adverse effects reported.

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2022·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Peng-De Lu, Meng-Chen Yuan, Xing-Ping Quan, et al

Preclinical studies of licorice in ulcerative colitis: A systematic review with meta-analysis and network pharmacology.

Meta-analysisGut Health Inflammation Immunity

This systematic review with meta-analysis and network pharmacology investigates the effects of licorice on ulcerative colitis in preclinical studies. Licorice extract and its active compounds showed strong therapeutic effects, including reduced histological scores, reversed colonic shortness, and decreased TNF-α levels, indicating anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative stress, immunomodulatory effects, and microbiota homeostasis.

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2021·Anesthesia and analgesia·Ge Wang, Yang Qi, LiNa Wu, et al

Comparative Efficacy of 6 Topical Pharmacological Agents for Preventive Interventions of Postoperative Sore Throat After Tracheal Intubation: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 6,708

Systematic review and network meta-analysis of 62 RCTs comparing the efficacy of 6 topical pharmacological agents, including Glycyrrhiza, for preventing postoperative sore throat after tracheal intubation. Glycyrrhiza, along with corticosteroids, NSAIDs, and NMDA receptor antagonists, was associated with reduced postoperative pharyngeal pain across various time intervals.

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2021·Complementary therapies in clinical practice·Meaghan E Coyle, Jian Liu, Hongyan Yang, et al

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza spp.) and jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) formula for menopausal symptoms: Classical records, clinical evidence and experimental data.

Systematic reviewWomens Health Sleep

Systematic review of classical Chinese medicine and RCTs on licorice and jujube formula (LJF) for menopausal symptoms. LJF is historically used for menopause-like symptoms, with evidence suggesting potential improvements in sleep symptoms, but insufficient evidence for clinical recommendations.

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2020·Oral health & preventive dentistry·Sivakumar Nuvvula, Mahesh Nunna, Merve E Almaz, et al

Efficacy of Licorice Lollipops in Reducing Dental Caries in a Paediatric Population: A Systematic Review.

Systematic review

Systematic review assessing the efficacy of licorice lollipops in reducing dental caries in children. Licorice lollipops showed a promising effect in reducing caries by decreasing Streptococcus mutans counts in saliva. Further research with RCT designs and larger sample sizes is recommended.

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2020·Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry·Ann Polachirakal Tharakan, Madhura Pawar, Sonal Kale

Effectiveness of licorice in preventing dental caries in children: A systematic review.

Systematic review

Systematic review assessing the effectiveness of licorice in reducing Streptococcus mutans count and preventing dental caries in children. Licorice extracts are effective as an antimicrobial agent, reducing SM count and preventing an acidic environment that increases the risk of dental caries.

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2018·Journal of clinical anesthesia·Akira Kuriyama, Hirokazu Maeda

Topical application of licorice for prevention of postoperative sore throat in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 609Inflammation

Systematic review and meta-analysis of five RCTs involving 609 patients assessing the efficacy and safety of topical licorice for preventing postoperative sore throat in adults undergoing tracheal intubation. Topical licorice significantly reduced the incidence and severity of postoperative sore throat compared to non-analgesic control, with no significant adverse events reported.

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2017·Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology·Ângelo Luís, Fernanda Domingues, Luísa Pereira

Metabolic changes after licorice consumption: A systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of clinical trials.

Meta-analysisn = 985Physique Heart Health

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 26 clinical trials with 985 patients on licorice consumption. Licorice significantly reduces body weight and BMI but increases diastolic blood pressure, suggesting it should be avoided by hypertensive patients.

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2017·Journal of human hypertension·R Penninkilampi, E M Eslick, G D Eslick

The association between consistent licorice ingestion, hypertension and hypokalaemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 337Heart Health Nutrition

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 studies (n=337) evaluating the effects of chronic licorice ingestion on blood pressure and plasma potassium. Chronic ingestion of licorice significantly increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure and decreased plasma potassium, renin activity, and aldosterone levels. A dose-response relationship was observed for blood pressure changes.

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2008·Asia Pacific journal of clinical nutrition·Tsung-Hsiu Wu, Tai-Yuan Chiu, Jaw-Shiun Tsai, et al

Effectiveness of Taiwanese traditional herbal diet for pain management in terminal cancer patients.

RCTn = 2,466

RCT involving 2,466 terminal cancer patients comparing a Taiwanese traditional herbal diet (TTHD) with analgesic herbs to a regular hospital diet and a control diet. The TTHD group reported enhanced pain relief compared to the other groups, suggesting potential benefits of combining Eastern and Western medicine for pain management.

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2026·Explore (New York, N.Y.)·Geng-He Chang, Pey-Jium Chang, Yu-Ching Cheng, et al

Efficacy and immunomodulatory effects of licorice nasal spray in allergic rhinitis: A clinical study comparing with conventional steroid treatment.

RCTn = 60Immunity Inflammation

RCT comparing licorice nasal spray (LNS) to steroid nasal spray (SNS) in 60 patients with allergic rhinitis. LNS significantly reduced nasal blockage, postnasal drip, rhinorrhea, itchy nose, and improved sleep quality. LNS also showed significant reductions in cytokine levels and improved mucociliary function, indicating immunomodulatory effects.

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2026·Folia medica·Sabreen S Salman Al Anei, Ahmed R Abu Raghif, Hala A Almoayed

Therapeutic potential of(licorice) in modulating metabolic and inflammatory parameters in women with PCOS.

RCTWomens Health Inflammation

This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of Glycyrrhizaglabra (licorice) supplementation in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) by assessing its impact on metabolic and inflammatory markers.

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2024·BMC oral health·Khodayar Oshvandi, Reza Faghih Lotfi, Azim Azizi, et al

Comparison of the effect of licorice and chlorhexidine mouthwash on the oral health of intubated patients in the intensive care unit.

RCTn = 120

Triple-blind clinical trial comparing the effects of licorice and chlorhexidine mouthwash on the oral health of 120 intubated patients in an ICU. Both mouthwashes improved oral health significantly, with no significant difference between them post-intervention. Chlorhexidine showed a greater impact on reducing dental plaque and thinning saliva.

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2024·Journal of ovarian research·Hadis Hooshmandi, Akram Ghadiri-Anari, Ali Mohammad Ranjbar, et al

Effects of licorice extract in combination with a low-calorie diet on obesity indices, glycemic indices, and lipid profiles in overweight/obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

RCTn = 66Womens Health Nutrition Physique Hormone Health

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial studied the effects of licorice extract combined with a low-calorie diet on obesity indices, glycemic indices, and lipid profiles in 66 overweight/obese women with PCOS. Licorice supplementation led to significant improvements in body weight, BMI, body fat, lipid profiles, fasting blood sugar, insulin levels, HOMA-IR, and HOMA-B compared to placebo.

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2023·Inflammopharmacology·Ali Ameri, Mehdi Farashahinejad, Parivash Davoodian, et al

Efficacy and safety of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) in moderately ill patients with COVID-19: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 60

RCT evaluating the efficacy and safety of licorice (glycyrrhizin) in 60 patients with moderate COVID-19. Licorice showed no significant effect on SO, body temperature, or respiratory rate, but CRP and ALT improved toward baseline. Licorice demonstrated a safe profile of adverse events.

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2023·Complementary therapies in medicine·Mohsen Zabihi, Bahareh Hatefi, Mohammad Ebrahimzadeh Ardakani, et al

Impact of licorice root on the burn healing process: A double-blinded randomized controlled clinical trial.

RCTn = 50Skin Hair Health

Double-blinded randomized controlled trial investigating the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of licorice root on second-degree burn healing. The licorice hydrogel group showed significantly lower inflammation, redness, pain, and burning, with a faster healing process compared to the control group.

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2022·Phytotherapy research : PTR·Pouya Rostamizadeh, Seyed Mohammad Kazem Hosseini Asl, Zohreh Ghaem Far, et al

Effects of licorice root supplementation on liver enzymes, hepatic steatosis, metabolic and oxidative stress parameters in women with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized double-blind clinical trial.

RCTn = 60

This randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the effects of licorice root supplementation on liver enzymes, hepatic steatosis, metabolic and oxidative stress parameters in 60 women with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Licorice root supplementation led to significant improvements in liver enzymes, insulin levels, insulin resistance, oxidative stress markers, and liver steatosis compared to placebo.

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2022·Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences·Hsin-Li Liu, Po-Ya Hsu, Yueh-Chin Chung, et al

Effective licorice gargle juice for aphthous ulcer pain relief: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial.

RCTn = 54Inflammation

A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial involving 54 primary care patients with aphthous ulcers tested the effects of licorice gargle juice. The intervention group showed significantly reduced pain levels compared to the placebo group at both day 1 and day 2, indicating that licorice gargle juice can rapidly reduce pain and healing time.

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2021·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Geng-He Chang, Yu-Shih Lin, Ke-Hsin Hsu, et al

Nasal irrigation with Glycyrrhiza glabra extract for treatment of allergic rhinitis - A study of in vitro, in vivo and clinical trial.

RCTn = 60Inflammation Immunity

RCT evaluating nasal irrigation with Glycyrrhiza glabra extract for allergic rhinitis treatment. The study involved 60 participants and compared licorice nasal irrigation (LNI) to corticosteroid and saline nasal irrigation. LNI showed superior effects on nasal blockage, rhinorrhea, and other symptoms, with improved nasal resistance and turbinate hypertrophy, and no side effects.

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2021·The Gulf journal of oncology·Fahimeh Pakravan, Niloofar Heydari Salehabad, Fatemeh Karimi, et al

Comparative Study of the Effect of Licorice Muco-adhesive Film on Radiotherapy Induced Oral Mucositis, A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

RCTn = 60Inflammation

RCT of 60 head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy, comparing licorice mucoadhesive film to placebo for oral mucositis. Licorice film significantly reduced pain and mucositis scores in weeks 3 and 4.

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2021·The journal of contemporary dental practice·Nancy Helmy, Shereen Hafez, Amira Farid

Efficacy of Licorice on SalivaryLevels vs Chlorhexidine Mouthwash in High Caries Risk Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

RCTn = 52

RCT comparing the efficacy of licorice mouthwash to chlorhexidine mouthwash in 52 high caries risk patients. Licorice mouthwash stimulated salivary flow and increased salivary pH, but chlorhexidine showed better results in reducing plaque index. No significant difference in bacterial count was observed between the two mouthwashes.

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2021·Acta pharmacologica Sinica·Xiao-Fang Lan, Olajide E Olaleye, Jun-Lan Lu, et al

Pharmacokinetics-based identification of pseudoaldosterogenic compounds originating from Glycyrrhiza uralensis roots (Gancao) after dosing LianhuaQingwen capsule.

RCT

Pharmacokinetic study of Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Gancao) compounds in LianhuaQingwen capsule, focusing on their metabolism and potential to induce pseudoaldosteronism by inhibiting renal 11β-HSD2. Major constituents glycyrrhizin and licorice saponin G2 were metabolically activated to pseudoaldosterogenic compounds glycyrrhetic acid and 24-hydroxyglycyrrhetic acid.

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2020·Complementary therapies in medicine·Narjes Akbari, Neda Asadimehr, Zahra Kiani

The effects of licorice containing diphenhydramine solution on recurrent aphthous stomatitis: A double-blind, randomized clinical trial.

RCTn = 70

Double-blind randomized clinical trial comparing diphenhydramine solution (DS) and diphenhydramine-containing glycyrrhiza glabra (DSG) for recurrent aphthous stomatitis. DSG significantly reduced pain scores and wound healing duration compared to DS, with no adverse effects observed.

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2020·Complementary therapies in medicine·Hajar Ghaemi, Seyed Masoom Masoompour, Suleiman Afsharypuor, et al

The effectiveness of a traditional Persian medicine preparation in the treatment of chronic cough: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

RCTn = 70Inflammation

RCT evaluating the effect of licorice pastille on chronic cough in 70 participants. The licorice group showed a significant decrease in cough severity score compared to placebo, with no major side effects reported.

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2020·The journal of contemporary dental practice·Dina Kamal, Hassan Hassanein, Mai Akah, et al

Caries Preventive and Antibacterial Effects of Two Natural Mouthwashes vs Chlorhexidine in High Caries-risk Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

RCTn = 63

RCT comparing the caries preventive and antibacterial effects of Gum Arabic and Licorice mouthwashes versus chlorhexidine in 63 high caries-risk patients. After 12 months, Gum Arabic and Licorice showed significantly lower DMF scores and reduced bacterial counts compared to chlorhexidine, which showed increased bacterial resistance and oral side effects.

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2015·Planta medica·Zheng-Hai Tang, Ting Li, Yun-Guang Tong, et al

A Systematic Review of the Anticancer Properties of Compounds Isolated from Licorice (Gancao).

Systematic reviewLongevity

This systematic review summarizes the anticancer properties and mechanisms of compounds isolated from licorice, including triterpene saponins and flavonoids. It highlights the inhibition of proliferation, induction of cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and other anticancer effects, as well as the enhancement of chemotherapy effects and reduction of side effects.

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2013·Anesthesia and analgesia·Kurt Ruetzler, Michael Fleck, Sabine Nabecker, et al

A randomized, double-blind comparison of licorice versus sugar-water gargle for prevention of postoperative sore throat and postextubation coughing.

RCTn = 236

RCT comparing licorice gargle to sugar-water gargle in 236 patients undergoing elective thoracic surgery with double-lumen intubation. Licorice gargling significantly reduced the incidence of postoperative sore throat and postextubation coughing compared to sugar-water.

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2025·Journal of complementary & integrative medicine·Mopati N R Gokul, Konathala S V Ramesh, Penmetsa S Gautami, et al

A Comparative evaluation of locally delivered licorice gel and tetracycline gel as an adjunct to non-surgical therapy in the treatment of controlled type -2 diabetic patients with periodontitis stage II and grade B - A split mouth randomized clinical trial.

RCTn = 20Inflammation

This randomized, double-blind clinical trial evaluated the effectiveness of licorice gel compared to tetracycline gel as adjuncts to non-surgical periodontal therapy in 20 patients with Type-II diabetes and stage II periodontitis. Licorice gel showed statistically significant improvements in probing pocket depth and clinical attachment level, with better healing outcomes compared to tetracycline gel.

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2024·The American journal of clinical nutrition·Peder Af Geijerstam, Annelie Joelsson, Karin Rådholm, et al

A low dose of daily licorice intake affects renin, aldosterone, and home blood pressure in a randomized crossover trial.

RCTn = 28Heart Health

A randomized crossover trial with 28 healthy volunteers examined the effects of daily licorice intake containing 100 mg glycyrrhizic acid on home blood pressure. The study found that licorice intake significantly increased systolic blood pressure and suppressed renin and aldosterone levels, suggesting that the safe limit of licorice intake might need reconsideration.

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2022·Zhong nan da xue xue bao. Yi xue ban = Journal of Central South University. Medical sciences·Xingping Zhao, Shuhan He, Zhaoling You, et al

Chinese medicine Yangmo decoction ameliorates intrauterine adhesion prognosis following hysteroscopic adhesiolysis.

Observationaln = 427Womens Health

This retrospective, non-randomized controlled study assessed the effects of Yangmo decoction after hysteroscopic adhesiolysis (HA) in patients with moderate or severe intrauterine adhesions. The Yangmo decoction group showed a better surgical success rate, significant reduction in AFS score, improved density of endometrial glands, and higher fertility rate compared to the estrogen and progesterone group.

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2019·PloS one·Yandi Chen, Melissa Agnello, Márcia Dinis, et al

Lollipop containing Glycyrrhiza uralensis extract reduces Streptococcus mutans colonization and maintains oral microbial diversity in Chinese preschool children.

RCT

RCT testing the efficacy of herbal lollipops containing Glycyrrhiza uralensis extract in reducing salivary Streptococcus mutans levels in high caries-risk children aged 3-6. The study found that daily use of 2 licorice-containing lollipops for 3 weeks significantly reduced S. mutans levels without affecting the biodiversity of the oral microbiome.

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2018·Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin·M. Alizadeh, Nazli Namazi, E. Mirtaheri, et al

Changes of Insulin Resistance and Adipokines Following Supplementation with Glycyrrhiza Glabra L. Extract in Combination with a Low-Calorie Diet in Overweight and Obese Subjects: a Randomized Double Blind Clinical Trial

RCTn = 64Nutrition

RCT of 64 overweight and obese subjects comparing 1.5 g/day of licorice extract plus a low-calorie diet to placebo over 8 weeks. Licorice supplementation significantly decreased waist circumference, fat mass, serum vaspin, zinc-α2 glycoprotein, insulin, and HOMA-IR, but only the reduction in serum vaspin levels was significant compared to placebo.

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2016·International journal of nursing studies·I-Chen Yu, Yun-Fang Tsai, Ji-Tseng Fang, et al

Effects of mouthwash interventions on xerostomia and unstimulated whole saliva flow rate among hemodialysis patients: A randomized controlled study.

RCTn = 122

RCT conducted in three dialysis centers in Northern Taiwan with 122 hemodialysis patients. Patients were assigned to pure water mouthwash, licorice mouthwash, or no mouthwash. Licorice mouthwash significantly improved unstimulated salivary flow rates and reduced xerostomia scores, while pure water mouthwash improved salivary flow rates but not xerostomia scores.

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2016·The Brazilian journal of infectious diseases : an official publication of the Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases·Ali Akbar Hajiaghamohammadi, Ali Zargar, Sonia Oveisi, et al

To evaluate of the effect of adding licorice to the standard treatment regimen of Helicobacter pylori.

RCTn = 120Gut Health

RCT evaluating the effect of adding licorice to a clarithromycin-based regimen for H. pylori eradication in 120 patients with dyspepsia. The study group receiving licorice showed a significantly higher eradication rate (83.3%) compared to the control group (62.5%).

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2015·Zhongguo Zhong xi yi jie he za zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi jiehe zazhi = Chinese journal of integrated traditional and Western medicine·Meng-Yin He, Fu-Yuan Fan

[Adjunctive treatment of axial undifferentiated spondyloarthritis by Qiangji Recipe: a clinical study].

RCTn = 50Joint Bone Health

RCT evaluating the efficacy and safety of Qiangji Recipe (QR) as an adjunctive treatment for axial undifferentiated spondyloarthritis. QR combined with Celecoxib showed better improvement in BASDAI, BASFI, ASQoL, and CRP compared to Celecoxib alone, with 76.92% of the treatment group achieving ASAS 20 response at week 4.

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2014·Asia-Pacific journal of clinical oncology·Parichehr Ghalayani, Hamid Emami, Fahimeh Pakravan, et al

Comparison of triamcinolone acetonide mucoadhesive film with licorice mucoadhesive film on radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis: A randomized double-blinded clinical trial.

RCTn = 60

This randomized double-blind clinical trial compared the efficacy and safety of triamcinolone acetonide and licorice mucoadhesive films on radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis in 60 patients. Both treatments were effective in reducing pain, with no significant difference between the two groups, although a trend towards reduced oral discomfort was observed in the licorice group.

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2013·Middle East journal of anaesthesiology·Diyva Gupta, Sanjay Agrawal, Jagdish P Sharma

Effect of preoperative licorice lozenges on incidence of postextubation cough and sore throat in smokers undergoing general anesthesia and endotracheal intubation.

RCTn = 100

RCT of 100 smokers undergoing surgery with general anesthesia and endotracheal intubation, comparing licorice lozenges to sugar candy for reducing postextubation cough and sore throat. Licorice lozenges significantly reduced the incidence of postextubation cough and showed efficacy in reducing sore throat severity at 12 and 24 hours post-extubation.

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2013·Health care for women international·Lida Menati, Khosheh Khaleghinezhad, Mitra Tadayon, et al

Evaluation of contextual and demographic factors on licorice effects on reducing hot flashes in postmenopause women.

RCTn = 60Womens Health

RCT comparing the effects of licorice (1140 mg/day) to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on hot flash symptoms in 60 menopausal women over 90 days. Licorice was not very different from HRT in reducing the number and duration of hot flashes, but HRT reduced severity more effectively. Licorice was more effective than HRT in improving hot flash duration.

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2012·Phytotherapy research : PTR·Ali Akbar Hajiaghamohammadi, Amir Ziaee, Rasoul Samimi

The efficacy of licorice root extract in decreasing transaminase activities in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

RCTn = 66

This double-blind randomized clinical trial investigated the effects of licorice root extract on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in 66 patients. The case group received 2g of licorice root extract daily for 2 months, resulting in a statistically significant decrease in liver transaminase levels (ALT and AST), while the control group showed no significant changes.

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2010·Anais brasileiros de dermatologia·Adilson Costa, Thaís Abdalla Moisés, Tatiana Cordero, et al

Association of emblica, licorice and belides as an alternative to hydroquinone in the clinical treatment of melasma.

RCTn = 50Skin Hair Health

Mono-blind clinical study comparing the efficacy and safety of a cream containing Belides, Emblica, and Licorice to Hydroquinone 2% in treating melasma in 56 women. Both groups showed significant depigmentation with no statistical differences between them, but the Emblica, Licorice, and Belides group had fewer skin adverse events.

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2008·General dentistry·Michael D Martin, Jefrey Sherman, Peter van der Ven, et al

A controlled trial of a dissolving oral patch concerning glycyrrhiza (licorice) herbal extract for the treatment of aphthous ulcers.

RCTn = 69

Randomized, double-blind clinical trial of an intraoral adhesive patch containing glycyrrhiza root extract for treatment of recurrent aphthous ulcers. By the eighth day, the ulcer size for the active treatment group was significantly lower, and by the fourth day, the active treatment group reported significantly less pre-stimulus pain compared to placebo and no-treatment groups.

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2008·Zhongguo Zhong xi yi jie he za zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi jiehe zazhi = Chinese journal of integrated traditional and Western medicine·Cai-Yun Jin, Dong-Lian Wang, Zhi-De Fang

[Effect of integrative Chinese and Western medicine in treating chronic urticaria and its impact on interleukin-10 and interleukin-8 in peripheral blood].

RCTInflammation Immunity

RCT comparing integrative Chinese and Western medicine using Kangqian Decoction and levocetirizine hydrochloride in treating chronic urticaria. The treatment group showed a higher effective rate and significant changes in IL-10 and IL-8 levels, indicating improved immune function and anti-inflammatory effects.

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2008·Journal of basic and clinical physiology and pharmacology·Eli Carmeli, Yigal Harpaz, Nina N Kogan, et al

The effect of an endogenous antioxidant glabridin on oxidized LDL.

RCTHeart Health

RCT investigating the effect of glabridin, a polyphenolic isoflavone antioxidant from licorice root, on LDL oxidation. Oral administration of a glycyrrhizin-free licorice-root methanol extract containing glabridin to healthy subjects for 6 months reduced oxidative stress and plasma LDL oxidation by 20%.

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2004·Digestion·A Madisch, G Holtmann, G Mayr, et al

Treatment of functional dyspepsia with a herbal preparation. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial.

RCTn = 120Gut Health

RCT assessing the efficacy and safety of the herbal preparation STW 5-II for functional dyspepsia in 120 patients. The herbal preparation significantly improved gastrointestinal symptoms compared to placebo, with 43.3% of patients on active treatment reporting complete relief after 8 weeks.

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2003·The Journal of dermatological treatment·M Saeedi, K Morteza-Semnani, M-R Ghoreishi

The treatment of atopic dermatitis with licorice gel.

RCTn = 60Skin Hair Health

Double-blind clinical trial evaluating the effect of licorice extract topical gel on atopic dermatitis in 60 patients. Two percent licorice gel was more effective than 1% in reducing erythema, oedema, and itching over two weeks.

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2022·Frontiers in Nutrition·Priyanka Sharma, Priyanka Pathak, Vidushi Tyagi, et al

Investigation of the potential of Glycyrrhiza glabra as a bioavailability enhancer of Vitamin B12

StudyNutrition

The study investigated the potential of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) extract to enhance the bioavailability of Vitamin B12. In vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo assays showed that the extract significantly increased the permeation and pharmacokinetic parameters of Vitamin B12, suggesting its capability as a bioavailability enhancer.

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2019·Planta medica·Jasmin Seiwerth, Georgia Tasiopoulou, Julia Hoffmann, et al

Anti-Inflammatory Effect of a Novel Topical Herbal Composition (VEL-091604) Consisting of Gentian Root, Licorice Root and Willow Bark Extract.

RCTn = 42Inflammation Skin Hair Health

The study assessed the anti-inflammatory properties of a topical herbal composition VEL-091604 containing gentian root, licorice root, and willow bark extract in a randomized, placebo-controlled UV-erythema test with 42 healthy volunteers. The cream significantly reduced inflammation compared to placebo and was as effective as 1% hydrocortisone acetate. An open-label study in 10 subjects with atopic dermatitis showed a significant reduction in SCORAD severity score.

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2019·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Peyman Petramfar, Fatemeh Hajari, Gholamhossein Yousefi, et al

Efficacy of oral administration of licorice as an adjunct therapy on improving the symptoms of patients with Parkinson's disease, A randomized double blinded clinical trial.

RCTn = 39Brain Health

This double-blinded RCT assessed the efficacy of oral licorice as an adjunct therapy in 39 Parkinson's disease patients. Licorice intake significantly improved total UPDRS, daily activities, tremor, motor test, and rigidity scores without serious adverse events.

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2010·Psychoneuroendocrinology·Katri Räikkönen, Jonathan R Seckl, Kati Heinonen, et al

Maternal prenatal licorice consumption alters hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis function in children.

Observationaln = 321Hormone Health

Observational study examining the association between maternal glycyrrhizin consumption in licorice during pregnancy and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis function in children. High exposure to glycyrrhizin was linked to increased salivary cortisol levels in children, suggesting prenatal programming effects.

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2010·European journal of clinical pharmacology·Jiang-Hua Tu, Yi-Jing He, Yao Chen, et al

Effect of glycyrrhizin on the activity of CYP3A enzyme in humans.

RCTn = 16

RCT investigating the effects of repeated glycyrrhizin ingestion on the oral pharmacokinetics of midazolam, a probe drug for CYP3A activity, in 16 healthy adult males. Glycyrrhizin administration resulted in a modest induction of CYP3A, affecting midazolam pharmacokinetics.

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2009·Anesthesia and analgesia·Anil Agarwal, Devendra Gupta, Ghanshyam Yadav, et al

An evaluation of the efficacy of licorice gargle for attenuating postoperative sore throat: a prospective, randomized, single-blind study.

RCTn = 40

Prospective, randomized, single-blind study evaluating the efficacy of licorice gargle in attenuating postoperative sore throat (POST) in 40 adults undergoing elective lumbar laminectomy. Licorice gargle reduced the incidence and severity of POST compared to water, with no difference in side effects.

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2009·Phytotherapy research : PTR·A A Moghadamnia, M Motallebnejad, M Khanian

The efficacy of the bioadhesive patches containing licorice extract in the management of recurrent aphthous stomatitis.

RCTn = 15Inflammation

This study evaluated the efficacy of licorice bioadhesive hydrogel patches in managing recurrent aphthous stomatitis. Significant reductions in pain and the diameter of the inflammatory halo and necrotic center were observed with licorice patches compared to no-treatment and placebo groups.

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2008·Zhongguo Zhong xi yi jie he za zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi jiehe zazhi = Chinese journal of integrated traditional and Western medicine·Rui-Ning Liang, Juan Liu, Jun Lu

[Treatment of refractory polycystic ovary syndrome by bushen huoxue method combined with ultrasound-guided follicle aspiration].

RCTn = 44Womens Health

RCT of 44 patients with refractory PCOS comparing Bushen Houxue method combined with ultrasound-guided follicle aspiration to follicle aspiration alone. The combined treatment significantly reduced the dosage of HMG needed for ovulation and improved pregnancy rates, with fewer cases of OHSS and LUFS.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2006·European journal of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive biology·Decio Armanini, Roberto Castello, Carla Scaroni, et al

Treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome with spironolactone plus licorice.

RCTn = 32Womens Health

RCT comparing spironolactone alone versus spironolactone plus licorice in 32 women with PCOS. The combination reduced mean blood pressure and symptoms related to volume depletion, with lower activation of the renin-aldosterone system and reduced prevalence of metrorrhagia.

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2005·Steroids·Decio Armanini, Davide Nacamulli, Francesco Francini-Pesenti, et al

Glycyrrhetinic acid, the active principle of licorice, can reduce the thickness of subcutaneous thigh fat through topical application.

RCTn = 18Physique

RCT evaluating the effect of topical glycyrrhetinic acid cream on thigh fat thickness in 18 healthy women. The treatment significantly reduced the circumference and thickness of the superficial fat layer compared to placebo, likely due to inhibition of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1.

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2003·Journal of endocrinological investigation·D Armanini, C B De Palo, M J Mattarello, et al

Effect of licorice on the reduction of body fat mass in healthy subjects.

RCTn = 15Physique

RCT studying the effect of licorice on body fat mass in 15 normal-weight subjects over 2 months. Licorice consumption reduced body fat mass without changing BMI, and suppressed aldosterone. The study suggests licorice may reduce fat by inhibiting 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase Type 1 at fat cells.

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2001·Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)·P Ferrari, A Sansonnens, B Dick, et al

In vivo 11beta-HSD-2 activity: variability, salt-sensitivity, and effect of licorice.

RCTn = 20Heart Health

The study investigated the effect of glycyrrhetinic acid on 11beta-HSD-2 activity and its role in salt-sensitive hypertension. It found that glycyrrhetinic acid increased the (THF+5alpha-THF)/THE ratio, which was more sensitive than UFF/UFE for detecting decreased 11beta-HSD-2 activity, particularly in salt-sensitive subjects.

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2024·IP Indian Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dermatology·Sanjay Choudhary, R. Joshi, Dyotona Sen

Evaluating the use of an advance lotion for addressing skin hyperpigmentation

StudySkin Hair Health

The study examined the efficacy and safety of Advance Lotion, containing licorice, kojic acid, arbutin, and vitamin E, for addressing skin hyperpigmentation. Results showed a significant reduction in skin pigmentation and improvements with continued use, with no cases of skin intolerance reported.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar
2020·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Shishir Upadhyay, A. Mantha, M. Dhiman

Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) root extract attenuates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity via alleviating oxidative stress and stabilising the cardiac health in H9c2 cardiomyocytes.

In vitroHeart Health

The study investigates the effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) root extract on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. The extract was found to reduce oxidative stress, maintain mitochondrial functions, and regulate lipid homeostasis, thereby preserving cardiac health and mitigating the negative effects of doxorubicin.

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1994·Life sciences·M Bernardi, P E D'Intino, F Trevisani, et al

Effects of prolonged ingestion of graded doses of licorice by healthy volunteers.

RCTn = 24

RCT administering graded daily doses of dried, aqueous extract of licorice root to 24 healthy volunteers for 4 weeks. No significant effects in lower dose groups, but highest doses led to side effects such as hypertension and hypokalaemia, particularly in individuals with subclinical disease or taking oral contraceptives.

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2023·Healthcare·Hebah AlDehlawi, A. Jazzar

The Power of Licorice (Radix glycyrrhizae) to Improve Oral Health: A Comprehensive Review of Its Pharmacological Properties and Clinical Implications

Review

This narrative review explores the pharmacological properties and clinical implications of licorice (Radix glycyrrhizae) for oral health. It discusses the potential therapeutic benefits of licorice extracts and their bioactive components on oral diseases such as dental caries, periodontitis, halitosis, candidiasis, and recurrent aphthous ulcers, highlighting its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidative, and immunomodulatory effects.

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2010·Pharmacognosy Research·H. A. Ram, Prachiti Lachake, U. Kaushik, et al

Formulation and evaluation of floating tablets of liquorice extract

In vitro

The study formulated and evaluated floating tablets containing liquorice extract for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori and gastric ulcers. The tablets were optimized based on buoyancy time and in vitro drug release, with the optimized formulation releasing 98.3% of the drug in 8 hours.

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2019·Journal of Medicinal Food·Yu-Jin Kwon, Da-Hye Son, Tae-Ha Chung, et al

A Review of the Pharmacological Efficacy and Safety of Licorice Root from Corroborative Clinical Trial Findings

ReviewInflammation Gut Health Skin Hair Health

This narrative review discusses the pharmacological efficacy and safety of licorice root, highlighting its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-allergenic, and antimicrobial properties. It also addresses potential adverse effects such as hypokalemia and hypertension due to mineralocorticoid-like activity.

Semantic ScholarRead on Semantic Scholar