Description

Skin inflammation and infection
Many compounds in licorice root may help to reduce inflammation of the skin and other parts of the body.

These compounds can help to treat several skin conditions. For example, one animal study showed that glycyrrhizin extract from licorice root may relieveTrusted Source symptoms associated with eczema.

Stomach discomfort and ulcers
Infection with bacteria called Helicobacter pylori can cause peptic ulcers in some people. A clinical trial of 120 people found that the addition of licorice extract to the standard treatment significantly improved H. Pylori eradication.

Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a form of processed licorice extract that contains less glycyrrhizin. Small studies show that DGL supplements can reduce symptoms of general gastric and intestinal irritation.

Hepatitis C
Glycyrrhizin may help treat hepatitis C, a virus that infects the liver. Without treatment, hepatitis C can cause inflammation and long-term liver damage.

Researchers have reported that glycyrrhizin demonstrates antimicrobial activity against hepatitis C in cell samples and may hold promise as a future treatment for this virus.

Tooth decay
Some research suggests that licorice extract may help kill bacteria in the mouth that cause tooth decay.

Source found that licorice root extract can help reduce the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria in the mouth. This, in turn, lessens environmental acidity around the teeth and helps to prevent dental cavities from forming.

Sore throat
Different forms of licorice may help treat sore throats and other upper respiratory disorders. Many people claim that drinking licorice root tea helps to reduce minor irritation and soothe sore throats. However, the majority of these claims are anecdotal.

A literature reviewTrusted Source concluded that topical application of licorice before surgery reduces the incidence and severity of postoperative sore throat (POST).

Another similar study found that solutions with a higher concentration of licorice were more effective than less concentrated solutions in improving POST.

Herbal remedies containing licorice root may also help to reduce symptoms of asthma. However, only animal studies have directly assessed the effect of licorice on asthma symptoms, and human research is necessary to confirm or disprove its efficacy.