Licorice Root
Licorice root comes from Glycyrrhiza glabra and related species and has been used across Asian, Middle Eastern, and European traditions. It is valued for its demulcent, harmonizing character and is often included in formulas for sore throats, dry coughs, and irritated digestion.
Quick Facts
- Best for
- Dry cough, Sore throat, Heartburn
- Common form
- Tea, tincture, capsule, food, or topical preparation depending on the remedy.
- Caution level
- Moderate to high - blood pressure and potassium cautions
- Related searches
- Dry cough, Sore throat, Heartburn, Stomach irritation, Hoarseness
How this remedy page was created
Created from Eden's remedy database, traditional-use context, and public health references. Educational only; not a diagnosis or treatment plan.
Image disclosure: remedy images are AI-assisted only when marked reviewed for botanical accuracy.
Benefits
Soothes dry, irritated throats
Helps coat and calm the digestive tract
Often supports cough and respiratory comfort
Acts as a harmonizing herb in blended formulas
Provides naturally sweet plant compounds
The Science & Wisdom Behind Licorice Root
Scientific Evidence
Licorice contains glycyrrhizin and flavonoids that show anti-inflammatory, soothing, and mucus-supportive effects. It is frequently studied for gastric mucosal support and throat comfort, though concentrated or long-term use can raise blood pressure in some people.
Traditional Use
Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and Western herbalism have all used licorice as a moistening and harmonizing remedy. It was commonly added to multi-herb preparations to soften harsh formulas, support the lungs, and calm digestive irritation.
Anecdotal Reports
People often reach for licorice root tea when they want something soothing and coating, especially during dry coughs or stomach irritation. Herbal users commonly describe it as one of the most comforting roots in a tea blend, though they also tend to respect it as a herb that should not be overused.
How to Use Licorice Root
General Usage
Licorice root is commonly used as tea, decoction, powders, syrups, or tinctures. Short-term use is usually preferred, especially for people with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or fluid-retention issues.
Common Uses For:
Recipe
Soothing Licorice Tea: Simmer 1 teaspoon dried licorice root in 1 cup water for 10 minutes, strain, and sip warm once or twice daily for short-term throat or digestive support.
Safety & Cautions
Natural does not always mean risk-free. Use this section to decide when a remedy deserves extra care or a clinician conversation.
Key cautions
- ! Licorice can raise blood pressure and lower potassium, especially with frequent or high-dose use.
Avoid or get medical guidance first
- ! Avoid with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, pregnancy, diuretics, corticosteroids, or digoxin unless clinician-approved.
Shop Licorice Root Products
Find high-quality Licorice Root products from trusted sellers on Amazon.
We recommend carefully reviewing product details and customer reviews before purchasing any herbal or natural remedy.
Shop on AmazonExplore More Remedies
Honey
Natural sweetener with antibacterial and healing properties.
Thyme
Classic kitchen herb with strong traditional use for coughs, congestion, and digestive support.
Mullein
Velvety-leaved herb traditionally used for respiratory support, particularly for dry coughs and lung health.
Marshmallow Root
Soothing mucilaginous herb that relieves irritation in the digestive and respiratory tracts and supports skin health.
Hawthorn
Berry, leaf, and flower remedy long associated with gentle heart and circulation support.
Garlic
Potent bulb with antimicrobial, cardiovascular, and immune-boosting properties.
Condition Guides Featuring Licorice Root
Cough
A practical guide to herbal and kitchen remedies for cough comfort, with clear signs that a cough needs medical care.
Condition GuideHigh Blood Pressure
A cautious natural-support guide for blood pressure, emphasizing monitoring, clinician care, and herb-drug interaction risk.
Condition GuideSore Throat
Comfort-focused natural options for sore throat support, plus warning signs for strep, infection, or urgent symptoms.
Get Eden Weekly Remedy Notes
A gentle weekly email with practical comfort remedies, safety cautions, and seasonal condition guides. Includes the starter guide: 10 gentle home comfort remedies with cautions.
Sources
- Herbs at a Glance - NCCIH
- Herbs and Supplements - MedlinePlus
- How Medications and Supplements Can Interact - NCCIH