Is Licorice Root Tea Good for Congestion?

Partly—licorice root tea may provide comfort when congestion comes with an irritated throat because its warmth can soothe the throat and its fluid supports hydration, but it is not proven to clear congestion.

Can licorice root tea help with congestion?

Licorice root tea is best regarded as a comfort measure, not a proven decongestant. A warm cup might feel soothing when congestion comes with throat irritation, but you may notice no change in how easily you breathe through your nose.

Congestion can refer to a blocked nose or a feeling of mucus in the chest. The distinction matters: something that makes your throat feel better does not necessarily relieve either type of congestion.

For more hydration options, see the best drinks for congestion. If a clinician has advised you to restrict fluids because of a medical condition, follow that advice rather than drinking extra tea.

How might licorice root tea work?

The most dependable contribution of licorice root tea is fluid. Staying hydrated helps keep mucus from becoming overly thick, while a warm drink can feel soothing against an irritated throat. Neither effect requires licorice root specifically.

Licorice root contains several compounds, including glycyrrhizin. It is not established that these compounds, as consumed in tea, clear nasal passages or loosen chest congestion. Glycyrrhizin is also responsible for important safety concerns, especially with repeated use or larger amounts.

The strength of a cup can vary with the product and how it is prepared. A stronger-tasting tea should not be assumed to work better, and more licorice root may increase the chance of unwanted effects.

Feeling better after a warm drink also does not necessarily mean the underlying cause of congestion has changed. Symptoms can vary over time, with or without tea.

What does the evidence say?

There is no good clinical evidence that licorice root tea relieves nasal congestion or shortens a respiratory illness. We found no studies demonstrating a benefit from licorice root or licorice root tea for congestion.

Without reliable human trials, it is not possible to say how likely the tea is to help, what amount might be effective, or whether it works better than other warm fluids. A label describing a tea as a respiratory or detox product does not establish that it treats congestion.

Evidence about an isolated licorice root ingredient would not automatically prove that a brewed tea works: the preparation and amount consumed may be different. For now, any relief from licorice root tea should be understood as possible comfort rather than a demonstrated treatment.

How can you use licorice root tea for congestion?

If you are an adult without the risk factors below and choose to try licorice root tea, select a commercially prepared product that clearly lists licorice root. Follow its brewing directions, let the tea cool enough to avoid burns, and sip it for comfort rather than expecting it to unblock your nose.

There is no established, evidence-based dose or duration of licorice root tea for congestion. Package directions do not guarantee that a product is safe for everyone. Avoid making a particularly strong preparation, using it frequently, or combining it with other products containing licorice root; ask a doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure about using it.

Check the full ingredient list, especially if the tea is a blend. Other ingredients may also be relevant to your health or medications. Do not assume that a product is safe simply because its label calls it natural.

Pay attention to how you feel rather than increasing the amount if congestion persists. Stop using the tea and seek medical advice if you develop swelling, muscle weakness, or a new concern after drinking it. Persistent or worsening symptoms deserve assessment rather than stronger tea.

Who should be careful, and when should you see a doctor?

Licorice root containing glycyrrhizin can raise blood pressure, cause fluid retention and lower potassium. Low potassium can contribute to muscle weakness and abnormal heart rhythms. Risk is greater with repeated use or larger amounts, although some people may be more sensitive.

If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, or a history of low potassium, avoid licorice root tea unless your clinician says it is appropriate. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and children, should also avoid it unless a clinician recommends it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using licorice root tea if you take diuretics, blood pressure medicines, corticosteroids, or digoxin. Licorice root can interact with medicines or increase the risk of adverse effects. Do not stop or change a prescribed medicine to try the tea.

Seek urgent medical attention for trouble breathing, chest pain, blue lips, fainting, or a rapid or irregular heartbeat. Contact a clinician if congestion worsens or does not improve, if you have a persistent fever, or if you are concerned about a child's symptoms.