Evidence supporting the use of: Licorice root
For the health condition: Nervousness

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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, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda. In these traditions, licorice root is often included in herbal formulas aimed at restoring balance and treating a variety of ailments, including symptoms associated with "nervousness," such as anxiety, irritability, and restlessness. In TCM, licorice is considered harmonizing and is believed to "tonify Qi" and moderate the harshness of other herbs, sometimes being used to address emotional disturbances or stress-related symptoms.

However, scientific evidence supporting the use of licorice root specifically for nervousness or anxiety is limited. Most modern research on licorice root has focused on its anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and gastrointestinal effects rather than its impact on nervous system function or mood. Some preclinical studies suggest that glycyrrhizin, a major active compound in licorice, might have neuroprotective or adaptogenic effects, but human data are lacking. Thus, while its traditional use for nervousness is well documented, robust clinical evidence is minimal. The rating of 2 reflects the strong traditional use and anecdotal reports, but a lack of rigorous scientific validation for this particular indication.

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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
Allergies (respiratory)
Amenorrhea
Anal Fistula or Fissure
Anemia
Appetite (deficient)
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Bronchitis
Canker Sores
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)
Chicken Pox
Cholera
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Cirrhosis of the Liver
Cold Sores
Colds (antiviral)
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Colic (adults)
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Congestion
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Constipation (adults)
Contagious Diseases
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Cough (damp)
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Cough (general)
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Cramps (menstrual)
Crohn's Disease
Croup
Cushing's Disease
Cytomealovirus
Dyspepsia
Eczema
Emphysema
Endometriosis
Enteritis
Epstein Barr Virus
Estrogen (low)
Fatty Liver Disease
Fever
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Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)
Gall Stones
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Gingivitis
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Goiter
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Hangover
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Mononucleosis
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Nephritis
Nervous Exhaustion
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Oral Surgery
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PMS (general)
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Poison Ivy or Oak
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