Synopsis

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

Glycyrrhiza (commonly known as licorice root) has a longstanding history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, as a remedy for various infections and as a general tonic. Historically, it has been used to treat respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, partly due to its perceived anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The notion of using Glycyrrhiza as an “alternative to antibiotics” is primarily rooted in this traditional context, where herbal remedies were the mainstay for managing infections before the advent of modern antibiotics.

Modern scientific research has identified certain compounds in Glycyrrhiza, such as glycyrrhizin and liquiritin, that exhibit antimicrobial activity in vitro against a variety of bacteria and viruses. However, the clinical evidence supporting its use as a replacement for antibiotics in humans is very limited. Most studies are preclinical (laboratory or animal-based), and robust human clinical trials are lacking. Thus, while there is some scientific rationale, the use of Glycyrrhiza as an alternative to antibiotics is not supported by strong clinical evidence. The practice remains primarily traditional, with a low to moderate evidence rating due to the lack of large, well-controlled human trials.

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