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

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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, where it is often recommended to support the female reproductive system, including the ovaries. In TCM, licorice is considered a harmonizing herb that can tonify "qi" and is sometimes included in herbal formulas for regulating menstrual cycles and addressing symptoms such as menstrual cramps or irregularity. Some traditional uses also suggest licorice for balancing hormones, though these claims are based on empirical usage rather than rigorous scientific evaluation.

From a scientific perspective, licorice root contains phytoestrogens and compounds like glycyrrhizin, which can influence the endocrine system. Limited laboratory and animal studies suggest that licorice may have estrogen-like effects and could affect hormone levels. However, clinical evidence in humans directly linking licorice root supplementation to ovarian health or function is minimal and inconclusive. Most available research focuses on licorice’s broader hormonal effects, such as its impact on cortisol metabolism or its use in menopausal symptom relief, rather than direct ovarian support.

Therefore, while licorice root is traditionally used to support the ovaries, especially in Eastern herbal systems, there is insufficient scientific evidence to strongly validate its efficacy for this specific application.

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