Evidence supporting the use of: Chinese Licorice
For the health condition: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder

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Synopsis

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

Chinese Licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for supporting respiratory health, including conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In TCM, licorice is frequently included in herbal formulas to "harmonize" other ingredients, reduce toxicity, and support lung function. It is traditionally believed to soothe the throat, reduce cough, and act as an expectorant.

Modern scientific research provides some mechanistic insights, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects attributed to its active compounds like glycyrrhizin. However, direct high-quality clinical evidence specifically supporting Chinese licorice as an effective treatment for COPD in humans is limited. Most studies are preclinical (in vitro or animal models), or licorice is used as part of multi-herb formulas, making it difficult to attribute benefits directly to licorice itself.

In summary, the use of Chinese licorice in COPD is primarily justified by traditional practice rather than robust scientific evidence. The evidence rating is 2, reflecting its established traditional use and some supportive, but not definitive, preclinical data. Clinical trials specifically investigating Chinese licorice as a monotherapy for COPD are lacking.

More about Chinese Licorice
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