BOTANICAL IDENTITY
The right name is the first step.
Also known as: Ural licorice
A common name and photograph do not guarantee identification. Check the botanical name and part indicated on a traceable product.
An illustration is not enough to identify a plant for consumption. Do not forage for a species based solely on this profile.
01 · UNDERSTAND
Properties & uses.
Dyspepsia and cough associated with the common cold
Use of the monographed group; the source does not demonstrate a benefit specific to each species.
Read the sourceThe traditional uses described are not clinical proof of effectiveness. Evidence for one preparation cannot automatically be applied to another.
02 · UNDERSTAND THE ACTION
How does the plant act?
Glycyrrhiza uralensis root appears alongside two other licorice species in the European monograph. Its digestive and respiratory uses remain traditional. Dental research specific to this species provides another type of information: a mouthwash may alter microbiological markers without demonstrating that swallowed herbal tea treats teeth. Plant part, route and purpose must remain attached to each result.
Constituents to know.
Their presence and quantity depend on the plant part and preparation.
- Glycyrrhizin
- Root saponin; composition varies between species and batches. A deglycyrrhizinated extract is a different preparation.Read the reference
Dyspepsia and cough
Uses recognized for the monographed group, without separate clinical demonstration for uralensis in these indications.
Read the referenceResearch on the oral environment
The mouthwash studied targeted bacteria and plaque acidity, not a systemic action after ingestion.
Read the referenceWhat this means for preparation.
A study of a gargle does not justify swallowing the preparation. For oral licorice, the risks already listed in the profile remain applicable, even if the product is sold as herbal tea.
03 · EXAMINE THE EVIDENCE
What the research shows.
A laboratory or animal result alone does not demonstrate a benefit in humans. Each result must be read alongside the preparation studied and its limitations.
A very short oral trial
- Type of research
- Randomized, double-blind trial, 60 people, 5 days
- Preparation concerned
- Mouthwash containing a G. uralensis extract, compared with saline solution, after scaling.
- Observed results
- The authors report a reduction in bacteria associated with tooth decay and in markers of cariogenic activity.
- Limitations to consider
- Five days does not allow the development of new cavities to be assessed. This does not replace dental care or validate a home recipe.
What can we take from this?
The dental results prove neither a treatment for digestive ulcers nor efficacy against respiratory infections. Do not combine confectionery, herbal teas and extracts without checking total exposure.
Documentary review dated 09/10/2026. The references remain available to check the context.
04 · CHOOSE A PREPARATION
One plant, several preparations.
Only forms documented in this profile’s sources are presented.
Infusion or decoctionRoot · Route: oral
Preparation described in the shared monograph.
Please note: Follow the product's package leaflet; concentrations are not interchangeable.
Read the sourceSoft extractRoot · Route: oral
Preparation described in the shared monograph.
Please note: Follow the product's package leaflet; concentrations are not interchangeable.
Read the source05 · BEFORE ANY USE
Precautions & contraindications.
This guidance does not cover every individual situation. Missing information is not a guarantee of safety.
Contraindications
- Avoid in cases of hypertension, hypokalaemia or heart, kidney or liver disease.
Medicine interactions
- Diuretics, corticosteroids, digoxin, stimulant laxatives and antihypertensives: professional advice required.
Adverse effects
- Water retention, reduced potassium, heart rhythm disorders.
Pregnancy & breastfeeding
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: medicinal use is not recommended; insufficient data.
Children & adolescents
Medicinal use is not recommended under 18 years; insufficient data.
If symptoms persist, worsen or are unusual, consult a healthcare professional. In an emergency, contact the emergency services.
06 · PUTTING KNOWLEDGE INTO PRACTICE
Preparations & recipes.
No home recipe is provided in this profile. For an appropriate preparation, refer to the product leaflet and ask your pharmacist for advice.
07 · CHECK THE SOURCES
Sources for this profile.
- EMA — liquiritiae radixAccessed on 09/10/2026
- EMA — Licorices, final assessment revision 1 (2026)Accessed on 09/10/2026
- Kim and Nam — Glycyrrhiza uralensis mouthwash, randomized trial (2021)Accessed on 09/10/2026
Illustration: Stickpen · Public domain. View the original image and its licence. Image resized and converted to WebP.
A TOUCH OF SOLÉA
Myriam’s tip
Myriam is reviewing the tip for this profile.
Myriam
