Licorice Root vs. Slippery Elm for Sore Throat: Comparative Benefits, Uses, and Evidence
Find out which time-tested herb delivers gentler relief and stronger soothing effects.

Sore throat is a common complaint linked to infections, allergies, voice strain, or environmental factors. While over-the-counter medications and antibiotics (in the case of bacterial infections) are routinely prescribed, herbal remedies such as licorice root and slippery elm are frequently chosen for their traditional soothing properties. This article offers a research-based comparison of these two herbs as remedies for sore throat, exploring their history, active components, mechanisms of action, efficacy evidence, safety, and usage recommendations.
Table of Contents
- Overview of Sore Throat and Herbal Remedies
- What Is Licorice Root?
- What Is Slippery Elm?
- How Licorice Root and Slippery Elm Work
- Scientific Evidence for Sore Throat Relief
- Forms, Dosage, and Preparation
- Safety, Risks, and Contraindications
- Comparison Table: Licorice Root vs. Slippery Elm
- How to Choose the Right Remedy and Use
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Overview of Sore Throat and Herbal Remedies
A sore throat, formally known as pharyngitis, involves discomfort, pain, or scratchiness in the throat that often worsens when swallowing. Most sore throats are caused by viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or irritating substances. While pharmaceuticals offer quick relief, natural remedies provide gentle alternatives, making them popular for those seeking holistic or long-term prevention strategies.
Among the most renowned herbal options are licorice root and slippery elm, both used for centuries and recommended in numerous traditional systems for soothing the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat.
What Is Licorice Root?
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is the root of a plant native to Europe and Asia. Traditionally used in Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Greek medicine, licorice root has a sweet taste due to glycyrrhizin, its primary bioactive compound. Other important phytochemicals include flavonoids, coumarins, and saponins.
- Historically valued for its ability to soothe sore throats, relieve coughs, and support respiratory health.
- Also used to treat gastrointestinal complaints and as a flavoring agent in candies and lozenges.
- Modern research supports its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and demulcent (mucous membrane-soothing) properties.
What Is Slippery Elm?
Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) is a tree native to North America; its inner bark contains a high concentration of mucilage – a gel-like polysaccharide that forms when mixed with water. Indigenous peoples used it for centuries to provide relief from throat irritation and digestive discomfort.
- The mucilaginous inner bark creates a soothing coating, traditionally used for sore throats, coughs, gastritis, and ulcer discomfort.
- Commonly consumed as teas, lozenges, capsules, or powders. Mucilage acts as a protective film, offering comfort and potentially supporting healing.
- Considered safe and well-tolerated in most people when used as directed.
How Licorice Root and Slippery Elm Work
Licorice Root
- Demulcent Property: Glycyrrhizin and other compounds increase mucus secretion, providing a soothing, protective coating in the throat.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Reduces inflammation and swelling in the mucous membranes.
- Antiviral and Antimicrobial Activity: Shown to inhibit certain viruses and bacteria responsible for throat infections.
- Expectorant Action: May help to loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract.
Slippery Elm
- High Mucilage Content: Upon mixing with water, mucilage forms a viscous gel that coats the throat lining, acting as a protective and soothing barrier.
- Demulcent and Emollient Effects: Relieves irritation of mucous membranes and calms inflammation associated with sore throats.
- Potential Stimulation of Mucus Secretion: Supports natural mucus production, aiding cough and throat discomfort defenses.
- Limited Systemic Action: Primarily works locally to alleviate discomfort, rather than acting as an antiviral or antimicrobial agent.
Scientific Evidence for Sore Throat Relief
The use of licorice root and slippery elm is supported by centuries of anecdotal evidence and some smaller clinical studies. However, rigorous large-scale research is limited.
Licorice Root
- Some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) support the effectiveness of licorice gargle post-surgery in reducing sore throat symptoms and cough.
- Preliminary research suggests licorice root may limit the severity and duration of upper respiratory tract infections, notably when used as a gargle or tea.
- Not all studies show statistically significant benefits, and more research is required to establish optimal dosage and delivery methods.
Slippery Elm
- An RCT found reduced throat discomfort in those drinking tea containing slippery elm bark—though the tea included other herbs, making it hard to attribute benefits solely to slippery elm.
- Most evidence remains anecdotal; people report relief from throat pain and coughing, but high-quality trials isolating slippery elm are sparse.
- The coating, soothing effect is widely recognized, with traditional use driving much of its popularity.
Forms, Dosage, and Preparation
Licorice Root
- Teas: Most traditional. Use dried roots or premade tea bags. Soak 1–2 grams of root in hot water.
- Lozenges: Commercial lozenges often blend licorice extract with other soothing agents.
- Tinctures: Liquid extracts can be diluted in water for gargling or oral use.
- Powder or Capsules: Standardized extracts available in supplement form; dosages vary.
Safety note: High doses or prolonged use can cause side effects due to glycyrrhizin content; typically, limit duration and follow product recommendations.
Slippery Elm
- Tea: Mix the powdered bark with hot water. The mucilage thickens the liquid to a soothing consistency.
- Lozenges: Designed for slow dissolution in the mouth, providing sustained throat coating.
- Powder: Can be swallowed as a slurry for digestive or throat care.
- Capsules/Tablets: Convenient for precise dosing; follow label directions.
Dosage: No universal dosage; always follow the instructions on packaging or consult a healthcare professional, especially for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those taking other medications.
Safety, Risks, and Contraindications
Remedy | Common Side Effects | Contraindications | Drug Interactions |
---|---|---|---|
Licorice Root | High blood pressure, low potassium, water retention (with high doses or prolonged use) | Hypertension, heart/kidney/liver disease, pregnancy, breastfeeding | Diuretics, antihypertensives, corticosteroids, certain heart medications |
Slippery Elm | Generally well-tolerated; rare allergic reaction; possible interference with medication absorption | Pregnancy, breastfeeding (insufficient data); children (consult provider) | May slow absorption of oral medications (take separately by 1-2 hours) |
- Both remedies may affect the absorption of medications if taken together; always stagger timing of slippery elm/other gels and medications.
- Licorice should not be used chronically or in large amounts due to risk of serious side effects.
- Both remedies require consultation with a healthcare provider in the presence of chronic conditions or medication use.
Comparison Table: Licorice Root vs. Slippery Elm
Aspect | Licorice Root | Slippery Elm |
---|---|---|
Botanical Source | Glycyrrhiza glabra | Ulmus rubra (inner bark) |
Main Active Components | Glycyrrhizin, flavonoids | Mucilage (polysaccharides) |
Traditional Use | Sore throat, cough, ulcers, inflammation | Sore throat, cough, digestive relief |
Mechanism of Action | Anti-inflammatory, demulcent, antiviral | Coating/soothing demulcent, local barrier |
Scientific Evidence | Some RCTs for gargle, limited large-scale studies | Mostly anecdotal, rare small clinical trials |
Safety | Potential for significant side effects with prolonged or high-dose use | Generally safe when used as directed |
Form/Use | Teas, lozenges, tinctures, capsules | Teas, lozenges, powders, capsules |
How to Choose the Right Remedy and Use Safely
- For gentle, local soothing of acute sore throats—especially where the main complaint is rawness or irritation—slippery elm may be preferred for its gentler safety profile and mucilage content.
- If anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects are desired, or if the sore throat is accompanied by upper respiratory symptoms, licorice root may be appropriate—used cautiously, not chronically.
- Both remedies can be combined (for short durations and under medical guidance), using each in standard, recommended doses.
- Always consider known allergies, drug interactions, and underlying health conditions before using herbal products.
- Herbal remedies should not replace appropriate medical assessment where infection, severe pain, or persistent symptoms occur.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can licorice root and slippery elm be used together for sore throat?
A: Yes, some formulas combine both for layered throat relief. Use only for short periods, respecting dosage guidelines, and consult your provider for any underlying health conditions or medications.
Q: Are these remedies safe for children?
A: Slippery elm is typically considered safe with proper dosing, but always consult a pediatrician. Licorice root should be used cautiously and not long-term in children due to risk of side effects.
Q: How soon will I feel relief using licorice root or slippery elm?
A: Many people report feeling relief within minutes to hours due to the demulcent effect. Persistent or severe sore throat should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Q: Are there any groups of people who should never use licorice root?
A: Yes. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with high blood pressure, heart, kidney, or liver disease, or those on medications for these conditions should avoid licorice root unless under strict medical supervision.
Q: Can I take slippery elm with my medications?
A: Slippery elm mucilage may slow absorption of oral medications. To prevent interaction, take medications at least 1–2 hours before or after slippery elm.
Conclusion
Licorice root and slippery elm represent two trusted herbal options for sore throat care. Slippery elm’s mucilage offers reliably gentle, soothing relief, making it ideal for sensitive individuals. Licorice root brings potential anti-inflammatory and antiviral advantages but requires more strict adherence to duration and dosing to avoid adverse effects. Both can be integrated into a holistic approach for throat health, provided they are used thoughtfully and under appropriate guidance. Scientific validation continues to evolve, so ongoing research and medical advice remain essential to safe and effective use.
References
- https://www.rupahealth.com/post/slippery-elm-for-sore-throat-relief-does-it-really-work
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/slippery-elm
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/slippery-elm-uses-and-risks
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/slippery-elm
- https://www.ajpbp.com/ajpbp-articles/slippery-elm-its-biochemistry-and-use-as-a-complementary-and-alternative-treatment-for-laryngeal-irritation.pdf
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