Evidence supporting the use of: Licorice root
For the body system: Estrogen

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Synopsis

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

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, for a variety of health concerns, including those related to women's hormonal health. In these traditions, licorice root is sometimes used to support symptoms related to menopause, menstrual irregularities, and other conditions believed to involve estrogen or hormonal imbalances. The root contains phytoestrogens—plant-derived compounds that can weakly mimic estrogen in the body—which is the basis for its traditional use in supporting the "Estrogen body system."

However, the scientific evidence supporting licorice root's effect on estrogen is limited and mixed. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that components in licorice, such as glabridin, may have estrogen-like effects, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. A few small clinical studies have reported that licorice extract might help with menopausal symptoms, but these studies are not large or rigorous enough to draw definitive conclusions. Most of the support for licorice in this context remains rooted in tradition rather than strong scientific validation.

In summary, while licorice root is traditionally used for supporting estrogen-related health concerns, the scientific evidence is limited and warrants caution. Its use for this purpose should be informed by awareness of its potential side effects and contraindications, especially in individuals with hypertension or those on certain medications.

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