Does licorice affect immune function?

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    Last Updated: April 23, 2025

    Licorice interacts with the immune system by reducing macrophage oxidation and increasing T-cell activity, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects. These properties have been asscoiated with benefits in conditions like postoperative sore throat, rheumatoid arthritis, and atopic dermatitis, as well as potential applications in cancer treatment.

    Licorice interacts with the immune system and has been associated with reduced macrophage oxidation and increased T-cell activity.[1][2][3][4] These anti-inflammatory properties may explain why licorice has been effective in reducing postoperative sore throat, enhancing the efficacy of rheumatoid arthritis medications, and reducing the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.[5][5][6][7][8]

    In animal studies, licochalcone A and liquiritigenin prevented the formation of new blood vessels that fed tumors, which could potentially reduce tumor size and/or growth.[9][10][11] Licorice extract might also preserve cells that are usually damaged by chemotherapy drugs, and it appears to work synergistically with chemotherapy in cancer treatment.[12][13][14]

    Does licorice affect immune function? - Examine