6 Powerful Licorice Root Benefits Backed by Science (2025 Guide)

For thousands of years, licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been a cornerstone of traditional medicine, from ancient Egypt to traditional Chinese practices. Far more than just a candy flavoring, this potent herb is packed with hundreds of bioactive compounds that offer a surprising array of therapeutic effects. Modern science is now catching up, validating many of its historical uses and uncovering new ones. Understanding the specific licorice root health benefits can empower you to make informed decisions about your wellness regimen, addressing everything from inflammation to digestive distress.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll move beyond the folklore to explore the most significant, research-backed advantages of this powerful botanical. We will delve into its role in supporting digestive health, enhancing respiratory function, balancing hormones, and even protecting your skin. You will learn not just what it does, but how to safely and effectively incorporate it into your daily life. We'll also highlight how high-quality, convenient forms like our USDA Organic Liquid Licorice Root Drops can make accessing these benefits simple and straightforward. Prepare to see this ancient remedy in a whole new, practical light.

1. Soothes Inflammation & Supports Immunity

One of the most powerful and well-documented licorice root health benefits is its ability to combat inflammation and bolster the immune system. This ancient remedy contains over 300 active compounds, but its primary anti-inflammatory agent is glycyrrhizin. This potent compound works by inhibiting key enzymes and pathways involved in the body's inflammatory response, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and prostaglandins.

By modulating these processes, licorice root can help calm systemic inflammation, which is a root cause of many chronic diseases. This action not only provides relief from discomfort but also helps protect tissues and organs from the long-term damage associated with a persistent inflammatory state.

How It Works in Practice

The anti-inflammatory properties of licorice root have been observed in various clinical and traditional settings:

• Joint and Muscle Health: For centuries, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has incorporated licorice root into complex formulas to treat arthritis and reduce joint pain, leveraging its ability to soothe inflamed tissues.
• Skin Conditions: European studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of topical licorice root extracts in managing inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, reducing redness and irritation directly at the source.
• Systemic Inflammation: Modern clinical trials have shown that supplementation with licorice root can lead to a measurable decrease in key inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), in individuals with chronic health conditions.

Actionable Tips for Implementation

To safely harness these benefits, consider the following practical steps:

• Start with a Low Dose: Begin with a conservative amount, such as a few drops of a high-quality liquid extract, to see how your body responds. Our USDA Organic Liquid Licorice Root Drops offer a convenient way to control your dosage precisely.
• Consider DGL for Long-Term Use: If you plan to use licorice root for an extended period, opt for a deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) version. DGL has the glycyrrhizin removed, minimizing potential side effects like elevated blood pressure.
• Enhance Absorption: Taking your licorice root supplement with a small amount of healthy fat (like avocado or a spoonful of olive oil) may improve the absorption of its fat-soluble compounds.
• Monitor Your Health: Always monitor your blood pressure when introducing a supplement containing glycyrrhizin. Understanding your body's baseline and how it responds is key to a successful wellness strategy. You can discover how to use nutritional testing to improve diet and inflammation for a more personalized approach.

2. Digestive System Support

Another significant licorice root health benefit is its remarkable ability to soothe and protect the digestive system. This traditional remedy is celebrated for its gastroprotective properties, which help maintain a healthy gut lining and alleviate common digestive complaints. The active compounds in licorice, primarily glabridin and glycyrrhizin, work by stimulating mucus production in the stomach, creating a natural barrier against excess acid and irritants.

This enhanced mucus layer not only shields the stomach lining but also promotes the healing of damaged digestive tissues. Furthermore, licorice root has shown effectiveness in combating harmful bacteria like Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a common cause of peptic ulcers and chronic gastritis. By addressing these root causes, licorice provides comprehensive support for digestive comfort and long-term gut health.

How It Works in Practice

The efficacy of licorice root in digestive care is recognized by both traditional medicine and modern scientific bodies:

• Peptic Ulcer Treatment: The German Commission E, a respected scientific advisory board, has officially approved licorice root for the treatment of peptic ulcers, acknowledging its powerful healing capabilities for the stomach lining.
• Gastritis Symptom Relief: Clinical studies have demonstrated that individuals with gastritis (stomach lining inflammation) experienced up to a 70% improvement in symptoms like indigestion, heartburn, and stomach pain after supplementing with licorice root extract.
• Traditional Ayurvedic Use: For thousands of years, Ayurvedic medicine has utilized licorice root as a primary herb for a wide range of digestive disorders, valuing its ability to cool inflammation and restore balance to the gastrointestinal tract.

Actionable Tips for Implementation

To leverage licorice root for digestive wellness, follow these targeted recommendations:

• Choose DGL for Gut Health: For issues like heartburn or ulcers, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is the preferred form. It provides the gut-soothing benefits without glycyrrhizin, making it ideal for long-term use without affecting blood pressure.
• Time Your Dosage: Chew DGL tablets thoroughly about 20 minutes before meals. This allows the active compounds to mix with your saliva and coat the esophagus and stomach, providing a protective barrier before food arrives.
• Create a Synergistic Blend: For enhanced soothing effects, consider combining licorice root with other demulcent herbs like slippery elm or marshmallow root. This combination can create a powerful, comforting coating for the entire digestive tract.
• Stay Consistent: For optimal results in healing the gut lining, take your licorice supplement consistently for at least 4-6 weeks. Our USDA Organic Liquid Licorice Root Drops can be an excellent option for precise and easy dosing, though DGL is recommended for long-term digestive-specific protocols.

3. Respiratory Health Enhancement

One of the most cherished licorice root health benefits is its profound effect on respiratory wellness. It acts as a powerful expectorant and demulcent, helping to soothe irritated airways and promote clear breathing. The active compounds in licorice, primarily glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, work to thin mucus, making it easier to expel, while also reducing inflammation in the bronchial tubes.

This dual-action approach makes licorice root an exceptional ally during seasonal challenges or for those with chronic respiratory conditions. Its antimicrobial properties may also help combat the underlying pathogens responsible for respiratory infections, providing comprehensive support for the entire respiratory system and making breathing easier.

How It Works in Practice

The efficacy of licorice root in supporting respiratory health is well-documented in both traditional and modern contexts:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): For millennia, TCM has used licorice root as a key ingredient in formulas designed to treat chronic coughs, moisten the lungs, and expel phlegm.
• European Herbalism: In Europe, herbal preparations featuring licorice root are commonly recommended for conditions like bronchitis and sore throats, where its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties can provide direct relief.
• Modern Applications: Many contemporary throat lozenges and cough syrups incorporate licorice extract to leverage its ability to coat and calm irritated mucous membranes, providing immediate comfort.

Actionable Tips for Implementation

To effectively use licorice root for respiratory support, consider these practical strategies:

• Prepare a Warm Tea: For maximum benefit, prepare a warm licorice root tea. The warmth and steam help to open airways, while the licorice soothes the throat.
• Combine for Enhanced Effect: Pair licorice root with other soothing herbs like marshmallow root. This combination creates a powerful demulcent blend that provides an enhanced coating and calming effect on the throat and lungs.
• Use Standardized Extracts: To ensure consistent potency and reliable results, opt for a high-quality, standardized supplement. Our USDA Organic Liquid Licorice Root Drops offer a precise and easy-to-use method for incorporating this benefit into your routine.
• Take Between Meals: For optimal throat-coating action, take your licorice supplement between meals so it can work directly on the mucous membranes without being diluted by food. You can also explore how to perform a natural lung cleanse and detox for a more comprehensive approach to respiratory wellness.

4. Liver Protection and Detoxification

Another one of the most significant licorice root health benefits is its ability to shield the liver and support its crucial detoxification functions. The liver is the body's primary filtration system, and licorice root offers powerful hepatoprotective properties. The key active compound, glycyrrhizin, has been shown to protect liver cells (hepatocytes) from damage caused by toxins, alcohol, and certain medications, demonstrating its value in modern wellness protocols.

This potent botanical works by reducing inflammation in the liver, scavenging harmful free radicals, and helping to stabilize cell membranes. By mitigating oxidative stress, licorice root not only protects existing liver cells but also supports the organ's natural ability to regenerate, making it a valuable ally for anyone looking to maintain optimal liver health in the face of daily environmental and metabolic stressors.

How It Works in Practice

The hepatoprotective effects of licorice root are well-documented across both traditional systems and modern scientific research:

• Clinical Liver Support: In Japan, a purified injectable form of glycyrrhizin has been used for decades as a standard medical treatment to help manage chronic hepatitis C, demonstrating its powerful therapeutic potential in a clinical setting.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): For centuries, licorice root has been a cornerstone herb in TCM formulas designed to address "liver qi stagnation," a condition believed to manifest as stress, irritability, and poor metabolic function.
• Improved Liver Enzymes: Numerous clinical trials have shown that supplementation with licorice extract can lead to a significant reduction in elevated liver enzymes like ALT and AST, which are key markers of liver inflammation and damage.

Actionable Tips for Implementation

To leverage licorice root for liver support, follow these practical guidelines:

• Consult a Professional: If you have a pre-existing liver condition or are taking medications, always work with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate use and dosage for your specific needs.
• Monitor Liver Function: When using licorice root therapeutically for liver support, it's wise to have your liver enzymes monitored periodically to track progress and ensure safety. You can learn more about how to support liver function with comprehensive strategies.
• Combine for Synergy: For enhanced liver protection, consider pairing licorice root with other well-known hepatoprotective herbs like milk thistle. This combination can offer a broader spectrum of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support.
• Control Your Dose: Using a high-quality liquid supplement, like our USDA Organic Liquid Licorice Root Drops, allows you to start with a minimal dose and adjust as needed under professional guidance.

5. Hormonal Balance and Adrenal Support

Another of the key licorice root health benefits is its profound ability to support adrenal function and promote hormonal equilibrium. As an adaptogen, licorice root helps the body manage stress more effectively by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, our central stress response system. The compound glycyrrhizin slows the breakdown of cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, allowing the adrenal glands to work more efficiently and avoid burnout.

This action is particularly beneficial for those experiencing chronic stress or adrenal fatigue, a state of exhaustion popularized by experts like Dr. James Wilson. By helping maintain optimal cortisol levels, licorice root can alleviate symptoms like persistent tiredness, brain fog, and poor stress resilience, supporting overall vitality and hormonal stability.

How It Works in Practice

The adaptogenic and hormonal effects of licorice root are utilized in both traditional and modern health frameworks to address imbalances:

• Adrenal Fatigue Support: Integrative and functional medicine practitioners often recommend licorice root as part of a comprehensive protocol to restore adrenal function, helping individuals recover from prolonged periods of high stress.
• Menopausal Symptom Relief: Clinical studies have shown that licorice root can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes in menopausal women, likely due to its mild estrogen-like activity and ability to stabilize hormone fluctuations.
• Traditional Women's Health: For centuries, traditional medicine systems have used licorice root in formulas to support women's health, addressing menstrual irregularities and promoting a balanced hormonal cycle.

Actionable Tips for Implementation

To leverage licorice root for hormonal and adrenal support, a mindful approach is crucial:

• Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a minimal dose, such as a few drops of a liquid extract, and gradually increase as needed. This allows you to gauge your body's response without overstimulating the system.
• Use Cyclically: For hormonal support, consider using licorice root in cycles, such as taking it for three weeks and then pausing for one week. This prevents the body from becoming too reliant on its effects.
• Monitor Key Health Markers: Regularly check your blood pressure and electrolyte levels, especially potassium, when using licorice root long-term due to the cortisol-sparing effects of glycyrrhizin.
• Combine with Other Adaptogens: For a synergistic effect on stress resilience, pair licorice root with other adaptogens like ashwagandha or rhodiola. Our USDA Organic Liquid Licorice Root Drops can be easily integrated into a personalized supplement stack.

6. Skin Health and Wound Healing

Among the many licorice root health benefits is its remarkable ability to promote healthy skin and accelerate wound healing. This traditional remedy acts as a multi-faceted skin tonic, leveraging its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. The key compounds, glycyrrhizin and glabridin, work in synergy to soothe irritation, fight bacteria, and even out skin tone.

Glabridin, in particular, has been shown to inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for producing melanin. This action helps to lighten dark spots and reduce hyperpigmentation, resulting in a brighter, more even complexion. Simultaneously, the powerful anti-inflammatory effects of glycyrrhizin calm redness and sensitivity associated with common skin ailments.

How It Works in Practice

The skin-enhancing properties of licorice root are recognized in both traditional practices and modern dermatology:

• Dermatological Treatments: In clinical settings, licorice extract is incorporated into treatments for conditions like melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation due to its proven skin-lightening effects without the harshness of some chemical agents.
• K-Beauty Formulations: Korean beauty products frequently feature licorice root extract as a star ingredient in serums and essences, prized for its ability to soothe sensitive skin, reduce redness, and impart a radiant glow.
• Traditional Topical Remedies: For centuries, poultices and creams made from licorice root have been applied topically to manage inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, providing relief from itching and irritation.

Actionable Tips for Implementation

To leverage licorice root for your skin, consider these practical approaches:

• Perform a Patch Test: Before applying any new product to your face or large areas of skin, always perform a patch test on a small, discreet area (like your inner arm) to check for sensitivity.
• Apply Topically: For targeted concerns like dark spots or irritated patches, consistently apply a licorice-infused cream or serum to the affected area two to three times daily.
• Combine with Vitamin C: To maximize skin-brightening effects, pair your licorice root extract with a vitamin C serum. This combination provides a powerful antioxidant boost and enhances the fight against hyperpigmentation.
• Incorporate Internally: Supporting skin health from within is also crucial. A few drops of a high-quality extract, like our USDA Organic Liquid Licorice Root Drops, can help manage systemic inflammation that may manifest as skin issues.

Health Benefits Comparison of 6 Licorice Root Properties

Integrating Licorice Root into Your Wellness Journey

From its historical roots in ancient medicine to its modern-day validation through scientific research, licorice root has proven to be a remarkably versatile and powerful botanical ally. Throughout this guide, we've explored the significant licorice root health benefits, uncovering its profound impact on everything from chronic inflammation and digestive distress to respiratory function and hormonal equilibrium. The key takeaway is clear: this ancient remedy offers a multi-faceted approach to wellness, addressing interconnected systems within the body to promote holistic health.

We’ve seen how its active compounds, particularly glycyrrhizin, can soothe an irritated digestive tract, calm inflamed airways, and even support your adrenal glands during times of stress. Its potential to protect the liver from toxins and promote clearer, healthier skin further cements its status as a comprehensive wellness tool. The true strength of licorice root lies not in a single function, but in its synergistic ability to bring balance to multiple biological processes simultaneously.

Your Path Forward with Licorice Root

Harnessing these benefits requires a mindful and informed approach. The distinction between DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) licorice for long-term, gentle digestive support and whole licorice for short-term, acute conditions is a critical first step. Understanding your personal health goals will guide your choice and help you integrate it effectively.

Consider these actionable steps as you begin:

• Identify Your Primary Goal: Are you seeking relief from acid reflux, support for respiratory wellness during cold season, or a natural way to manage stress? Pinpointing your main objective will help you select the right form and dosage.
• Start with a Low Dose: Begin with the smallest recommended dose to assess your body's response. This is especially important for glycyrrhizinated licorice. A high-quality liquid extract allows for precise, drop-by-drop dose management, making it easy to start small and adjust as needed.
• Consult a Professional: Before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions like high blood pressure or are pregnant, a conversation with your healthcare provider is essential. They can offer personalized guidance tailored to your unique health profile.

Making Licorice Root a Practical Part of Your Routine

Incorporating this powerful herb doesn’t have to be complicated. For those seeking a pure, potent, and straightforward method, Peak Performance's USDA Organic Liquid Licorice Root Drops provide an excellent solution. This convenient format allows you to easily add a controlled dose to water, tea, or a smoothie, seamlessly blending its benefits into your daily habits without the fuss of powders or capsules.

By respecting its potency and understanding its applications, you can safely unlock the profound healing potential of licorice root. This is not just about addressing isolated symptoms; it's about embracing a botanical that supports your body's innate ability to find balance and vitality. Embracing the extensive licorice root health benefits is a powerful step toward a more resilient and vibrant you.

Ready to experience the balancing power of this ancient herb for yourself? Peak Performance is committed to providing the highest quality, certified organic supplements to support your health journey. Explore our USDA Organic Liquid Licorice Root Drops and discover a pure and effective way to integrate this powerful botanical into your daily wellness routine.