Licorice Root

What is Licorice Root?

Licorice root is an herbal supplement derived from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, commonly used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. It belongs to the class of botanical dietary supplements and contains active compounds including glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetic acid. Licorice root is primarily used for respiratory conditions, digestive issues, and skin problems, though it also has applications in adrenal support and inflammation management.

Uses

Respiratory conditions: Licorice root is commonly used to soothe coughs, bronchitis, and upper respiratory tract irritation due to its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Digestive disorders: The supplement is used to treat peptic ulcers, gastritis, and dyspepsia, as it may help protect the gastric mucosa and reduce stomach acid production.

Adrenal insufficiency: Some practitioners use licorice root to support adrenal function, particularly in cases of mild adrenal fatigue or Addison’s disease, due to its mineralocorticoid-like effects.

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Skin conditions: Topical preparations are used for eczema, dermatitis, and other inflammatory skin conditions because of licorice’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Hepatitis and liver support: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is sometimes used to support liver function and treat chronic hepatitis, though evidence is mixed.

How it works

Licorice root’s primary active compound, glycyrrhizin, inhibits the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which normally breaks down cortisol. This leads to increased cortisol activity and mineralocorticoid effects similar to aldosterone. The supplement also contains flavonoids and other compounds that provide anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects throughout the body.

Side effects

Common side effects:

• Elevated blood pressure
• Water retention and swelling
• Headache
• Fatigue and weakness
• Low potassium levels (hypokalemia)
• Muscle cramps
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Nausea

Serious side effects to watch for:

• Severe hypertension and hypertensive crisis
• Heart arrhythmias or heart failure
• Severe electrolyte imbalances
• Muscle weakness or paralysis
• Kidney problems

Warnings and precautions

People with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, or liver cirrhosis should avoid licorice root due to its mineralocorticoid effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use licorice root supplements, as glycyrrhizin may cause complications including preterm labor and affect fetal development. Individuals with diabetes should use caution, as licorice may affect blood sugar levels and potassium balance. Long-term use (more than 4-6 weeks) or high doses should be avoided without medical supervision due to the risk of serious cardiovascular and electrolyte complications. Patients with a history of hormone-sensitive conditions should consult healthcare providers before use, as licorice may have estrogenic effects.

Interactions

Blood pressure medications: Licorice can counteract antihypertensive drugs and ACE inhibitors by raising blood pressure through sodium retention.

Diuretics: May increase potassium loss when combined with thiazide or loop diuretics, leading to dangerous hypokalemia.

Digoxin: Low potassium levels caused by licorice can increase digoxin toxicity and risk of heart arrhythmias.

Corticosteroids: Licorice enhances the effects of steroids like prednisone, potentially increasing side effects including blood pressure elevation.

Warfarin: May decrease warfarin effectiveness and alter INR levels, requiring closer monitoring of anticoagulation.

Insulin and diabetes medications: Can affect blood sugar control and may require adjustment of diabetic medications.

MAO inhibitors: May interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, potentially causing hypertensive episodes.

Oral contraceptives: May increase the risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular side effects when combined with estrogen-containing birth control.

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Evidence summary

The scientific evidence for licorice root varies by condition. There is moderate evidence supporting its use for peptic ulcers and upper respiratory tract infections, with several clinical studies showing benefits. Evidence for adrenal support and hepatitis treatment shows limited evidence, with most studies being small or of poor quality. For skin conditions, there is moderate evidence for topical use in treating eczema and dermatitis. However, most studies have been short-term, and insufficient evidence exists for long-term safety and efficacy. For complete safety profiles and detailed research summaries, visit supplement.ge.

Dosage

Typical adult dosages vary by preparation and condition being treated. For standardized extracts, common dosages range from 200-800mg daily, while crude root preparations may be used at 1-5 grams daily. For deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), typical dosages are 380-1140mg daily. Duration of use should generally be limited to 4-6 weeks to minimize the risk of serious side effects. Dosage should always be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual health status, concurrent medications, and specific treatment goals.

Sources: FDA DailyMed drug labels (public domain), BNF, WHO Essential Medicines List. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.

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