Evidence supporting the use of: Licorice
For the health condition: Rhinitis, Allergic

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Synopsis

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

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. In the context of rhinitis, especially allergic rhinitis, licorice is traditionally used to help reduce inflammation of mucous membranes and ease symptoms such as nasal congestion and irritation. The presumed active component, glycyrrhizin, is thought to exert anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may theoretically benefit allergic conditions.

However, modern scientific evidence specifically supporting licorice’s efficacy in treating allergic rhinitis is limited. A few in vitro and animal studies suggest anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties; for example, licorice extracts have been shown to inhibit the release of histamine and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Clinical trials directly evaluating licorice for allergic rhinitis in humans are sparse and generally of low quality, with small sample sizes and methodological limitations. Thus, while traditional use is well documented and there is some mechanistic plausibility, robust clinical validation is lacking. Safety concerns, especially with long-term or high-dose use due to potential side effects like hypertension and hypokalemia, also limit its recommendation for this indication.

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