Evidence supporting the use of: Licorice root
For the health condition: Kidney Infection

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Chinese and Ayurvedic systems. In these traditions, licorice is considered a harmonizing herb and is sometimes employed in formulations aimed at supporting kidney health and treating urinary tract infections, including kidney infections (pyelonephritis). The traditional rationale is based on licorice’s perceived anti-inflammatory, demulcent, and detoxifying properties. However, direct references to licorice root specifically as a treatment for kidney infection are rare and mostly extrapolated from its general use in urinary and systemic infections.

From a scientific standpoint, licorice root contains compounds such as glycyrrhizin, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity in laboratory studies. However, there is little to no clinical evidence or well-conducted human research supporting the use of licorice root specifically for kidney infections. Modern medical guidelines do not recommend licorice root as a treatment for this condition due to lack of efficacy data and potential for significant side effects, such as hypertension and electrolyte disturbances, especially with prolonged or high-dose use. As such, licorice root’s role in treating kidney infections is primarily based on tradition, with weak supporting evidence.

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More about Kidney Infection

Other health conditions supported by licorice root

Abdominal Pain
Abrasions
Abscesses
Acid Indigestion
Acne
Addictions (general remedies for)
Addictions (tobacco smoking or chewing)
Addison's Disease
Adenitis
Adrenal Fatigue
Afterbirth Pain
Age Spots
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Anemia
Appetite (deficient)
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Contagious Diseases
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Crohn's Disease
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Fever
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Gall Stones
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