The Efficacy of Licorice Gargle for Attenuating Postoperative Sore Throat

Background: Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a common complication in patients undergoing endotracheal intubation and it contributes to patient dissatisfaction. The licorice has been used in the treatment of lung diseases, such as dry cough, hoarseness and sore throat. Aim: The study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of licorice gargle for attenuating POST. Method: The study was conducted in the surgical units, operating, and recovery rooms at King Fahd University Hospital in Al-Khobar and consisted of sixty patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were randomized into two groups of 30 each. The control group: followed the routine hospital care; The experimental group: gargled with 0.5 g licorice in water for 30 s, just 5 min before induction of anesthesia. The incidence and severity of POST at rest and on swallowing were assessed at 0, 2, 4, and 24 hours postoperatively. Severity of POST was assessed through Numerical Rating Scale (between 0 and 10). Data were analyzed by using SPSS. (P 0.05). Conclusion: Licorice gargle performed for 30 seconds, just 5 minutes before anesthesia was effective in attenuating the POST.