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

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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 medicine systems, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, where it is considered to benefit the immune system and overall vitality. In TCM, licorice is thought to "harmonize" herbal formulas and support Qi, which is sometimes interpreted as supporting immune function. The thymus is a central organ of the immune system, particularly important in T-cell development, and herbs deemed "immune-supportive" are sometimes associated with thymic function by extension.

However, there is little direct scientific evidence linking licorice root specifically to thymus health or function. Most modern research on licorice root focuses on its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and adaptogenic properties, as well as its effects on the adrenal glands and cortisol metabolism. While some studies have demonstrated immunomodulatory effects of licorice constituents (notably glycyrrhizin), these are generally not specific to the thymus. Thus, the use of licorice root to support the thymus is based primarily on traditional beliefs about its general immune-enhancing properties rather than on targeted clinical or experimental research. The evidence supporting its use for the thymus, in particular, is weak, meriting a low rating.

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