Using liquorice for vaginal dysbiosis

Author: Jessica Lloyd
Senior Vulvovaginal Specialist Naturopath | BHSc(N) | ISSVD, ISSWSH, BSSM, ATMS

Last reviewed: July 30, 2026

Liquorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has many demonstrated activities that benefit the vagina topically, including as an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and steroidal.^1,2

The steroidal action is similar to the effect of hydrocortisone, which can help to calm and soothe cells, while the other active constituents can act on the microbial issues in vaginal dysbiosis.³

When the vagina is battling with an infection or overgrowth of the wrong sorts of bacteria, inflammation can be the natural result. This inflammation may appear as itching, soreness, rawness or unusual discharge. Liquorice root extract can soothe the vaginal mucosa in several ways, reducing itching and discomfort.

In our own clinic, we use liquorice in vaginal pessaries as an anti-inflammatory, and in oral herbal liquids both as an anti-inflammatory and as a potentiator — liquorice is the classic traditional ‘guide’ herb, used to harmonise a formula and help the other herbs in it work together.⁷ We also use it for other complaints in line with its long traditional use.

In laboratory studies, liquorice root extract inhibits both gram-positive and gram-negative microbes.^4,5 These are test-tube results, so this is promising background rather than proof that topical liquorice cures a vaginal infection.

Actinomyces viscosus
Aspergillus niger
Bacillus subtilis
Enterococcus faecalis
Escherichia coli
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Staphylococcus aureus
Streptococcus mutans
Streptococcus sanguis

Liquorice root also shows antiviral activity in the laboratory against viruses including HIV, HPV and herpes.⁶ Importantly, this is test-tube activity only — it does not mean liquorice protects you from catching or passing on these infections, so it is no substitute for condoms, vaccination or antiviral medication.

A note on liquorice safety

Liquorice is not just a soothing herb — its active compound, glycyrrhizin, can be absorbed and, especially if overused, can raise blood pressure and lower potassium. Be cautious if you have high blood pressure or heart or kidney problems, and avoid liquorice in pregnancy, where higher intakes have been linked to poorer outcomes for the baby. Use it topically and sparingly, and check with a practitioner.³

Frequently asked questions

Does liquorice help vaginal dysbiosis?

In the lab, liquorice root extract is antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory, and its glycyrrhetinic acid has a mild cortisone-like soothing effect. Applied topically it may calm irritation, but the evidence is in-vitro, so see it as a supportive, soothing option rather than a proven cure.¹

Can liquorice protect against STIs like herpes or HPV?

No. Liquorice has antiviral activity in test tubes, but there is no evidence it prevents catching or passing on HIV, HPV or herpes. Rely on condoms, vaccination and antiviral medication for that.⁶

Is liquorice safe to use?

Used topically and sparingly it is generally well tolerated, but glycyrrhizin can be absorbed and affect blood pressure and potassium, so take care if you have high blood pressure or heart or kidney problems, and avoid it in pregnancy.³

This article is general information and not a substitute for personalised medical advice. If a vaginal infection is not settling, please see an experienced practitioner.