Evidence supporting the use of: Glycyrrhizic acid
For the body system: Kidneys
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Glycyrrhizic acid, a major active compound found in licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In TCM, licorice is considered harmonizing and is often included in formulas to "tonify" and support various organs, including the Kidneys. The use of glycyrrhizic acid specifically for kidney support is based more on traditional formulations and the holistic view of organ systems rather than direct evidence of kidney-specific benefits.
Scientific studies on glycyrrhizic acid have primarily focused on its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and hepatoprotective properties. While some animal studies suggest potential renal (kidney) protective effects, such as reduction of nephrotoxicity or renal inflammation, these findings are preliminary and not widely translated into clinical practice. There is also concern about glycyrrhizic acid's potential to cause side effects that negatively impact kidney health, such as pseudoaldosteronism, which can lead to hypertension and hypokalemia.
Overall, while licorice and glycyrrhizic acid are used in traditional systems to "support" the kidneys, there is limited direct scientific evidence to validate these traditional claims. Therefore, its use for kidney support is justified mainly by tradition, and the evidence is modest.
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