Licorice, a traditional herbal remedy known for its anti-inflammatory and phytoestrogenic properties, is being explored as a natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for managing hot flashes in postmenopausal women. In a recent randomized, double-blind clinical trial, menopausal women received either licorice (1140 mg/day) or HRT for 90 days, with the study assessing the frequency, duration, and severity of hot flashes.
Protocols Studied in Research
Licorice for Reducing Hot Flashes in Postmenopausal Women [1]
- Protocol: In this randomized, double‑blind clinical trial, 60 menopausal women were randomly allocated to receive either licorice (1140 mg/day) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT; conjugated estrogen 0.312 mg/day with medroxyprogesterone 2.5 mg/day) for 90 days. The study evaluated the number, duration, and severity of hot flashes, along with contextual and demographic factors.
- Outcome: Licorice and HRT produced similar reductions in the number and duration of hot flashes; however, HRT was significantly more effective at reducing hot flash severity. No significant differences were observed between groups regarding age, education level, marital status, occupation, income, number of pregnancies, or time since menopause. Licorice appeared to be more effective than HRT in improving hot flash duration, while HRT better reduced their severity.
Research Interpretation: Summary and Conclusion
Licorice and HRT similarly reduced the number and duration of hot flashes, though HRT was significantly better at lessening their severity.
In simple terms, licorice may offer a natural option for women primarily concerned with hot flash duration, while HRT remains more effective for severe symptoms.
Publications
[1] Menati L, Khaleghinezhad K, Tadayon M, Siahpoosh A. Evaluation of contextual and demographic factors on licorice effects on reducing hot flashes in postmenopause women. Health Care Women Int. 2014 Jan;35(1):87-99. doi: 10.1080/07399332.2013.770001. Epub 2013 May 10. PMID: 23663094.
