BOTANICAL IDENTITY
The right name is the first step.
Also known as: No synonyms listed.
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 inflata belongs to the medicinal group assessed by the EMA, but also has constituents studied separately. Licochalcone A from its roots has been the subject of inflammation experiments. These results explain a research direction; they do not turn a root infusion into a clinically demonstrated anti-inflammatory treatment.
Constituents to know.
Their presence and quantity depend on the plant part and preparation.
- Licochalcone A
- A chalcone isolated from G. inflata and studied in purified form. The amount in a usual preparation cannot be inferred from an experiment on this molecule.Read the reference
- Glycyrrhizin
- The root belongs to the licorice species containing this saponin; cardiovascular and electrolyte precautions also apply to this species.Read the reference
Experimental modulation of inflammation
Licochalcone A modifies inflammatory responses in cell and animal models. No herbal tea dose can be calculated from these experiments.
Read the referenceDigestive and respiratory uses
The EMA framework remains traditional for the licorice root group.
Read the referenceWhat this means for preparation.
Read the full composition: a cosmetic containing a licorice molecule, an oral extract and a root for infusion address different questions.
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.
Licochalcone A and inflammatory mediators
- Type of research
- Experiments on macrophages and edema models in mice
- Preparation concerned
- Purified molecule isolated from G. inflata.
- Observed results
- Reduced inflammatory responses, with inhibition of the COX-2-associated prostaglandin pathway in the models tested.
- Limitations to consider
- Neither a trial in patients nor a test of the whole root; the mechanism does not demonstrate efficacy against an inflammatory disease.
What can we take from this?
Experimental effects do not allow G. inflata to be ranked as more effective or safer than other licorices.
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
- Cui et al. — Anti-inflammatory activity of licochalcone A from G. inflata (2008)Accessed on 09/10/2026
- EMA — Licorices, final assessment revision 1 (2026)Accessed on 09/10/2026
A TOUCH OF SOLÉA
Myriam’s tip
Myriam is reviewing the tip for this profile.
Myriam
