Licorice is an unusual medicinal. It is potently antiviral, moderately antibacterial, and moderately immune potentiating. The strength is that it is a very potent synergist.

In general, it increases the action of other herbs and pharmaceuticals, and if added to a mixture it will enhance the extraction. 

As an immunostimulant, it stimulates interferon production, enhances antibody formation, and stimulates phagocytosis.

According to Ayurveda, licorice is used for treating poisoning, ulcers, diseases of the liver, bladder, and lungs. Any inflammation in the mucous membranes anywhere in the body. For cough, sore throat, hoarseness, and fever especially those that are pulmonary or of the GI tract.

As per traditional Chinese medicine licorice has been used in China for three thousand years. The herb is used in pharyngitis, cough, stomachs, peptic ulcer, pus infection, and ulceration of the skin.