Who This Is For
This guide is for anyone who has seen licorice root extracts on the supplement shelf or heard of it as a "natural remedy." By the end, you will understand when licorice root is beneficial, when it is dangerous, and how to use it safely.
TL;DR
- The active compound glycyrrhizin is anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial -- but also affects cortisol levels and blood pressure
- Safe limit: up to 100 mg glycyrrhizin per day (roughly 2--4 g dried root)
- Chronic overdose can cause hypertension, hypokalemia, and edema
- DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is a safer alternative for digestive issues
- Not suitable for: pregnant women, people with high blood pressure, or those using diuretics or corticosteroids
What Licorice Root Is
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a leguminous plant native to the Mediterranean and Central Asia. Its root has been used medicinally for over 4,000 years -- in ancient Egypt, traditional Chinese medicine, and Ayurvedic practice.
The root's sweet taste comes from glycyrrhizin, which is 50 times sweeter than sucrose. But glycyrrhizin's pharmacological activity is what makes licorice both useful and potentially dangerous (Pastorino et al., 2018).
How Licorice Root Works
Glycyrrhizin is metabolized in the liver to glycyrrhetinic acid, which:
1. Inhibits the 11-beta-HSD2 enzyme -- this enzyme converts active cortisol to inactive cortisone. When blocked, cortisol accumulates in tissues, leading to sodium and water retention (Isbrucker & Burdock, 2006)
2. Modulates inflammation -- reduces NF-kB activation, relevant in chronic inflammation
3. Has antimicrobial activity -- demonstrated effects against Helicobacter pylori, Candida, and several viruses (Pastorino et al., 2018)
Why It Is a Double-Edged Sword
The same mechanism that provides the anti-inflammatory effect (cortisol accumulation) also causes side effects: high blood pressure, potassium loss, and edema. This is why dose control is critically important.
Evidence-Based Benefits
| Benefit | Evidence level | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| GI mucosal protection | Moderate human trials | Raveendra et al., 2012 |
| Helicobacter pylori adjunct therapy | Moderate | Hajiaghamohammadi et al., 2016 |
| Upper respiratory symptoms | Limited human data | Pastorino et al., 2018 |
| Skin inflammation relief (topical) | Limited | Pastorino et al., 2018 |
| Hepatoprotection | Animal studies, limited human data | Isbrucker & Burdock, 2006 |
Important: "Anti-inflammatory" does not mean licorice root replaces anti-inflammatory medications. Therapeutic effects have been studied primarily as adjunct therapy, not standalone treatment.
Dosage and Safety
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) and WHO provide the following guidelines:
| Form | Dose | Maximum duration |
|---|---|---|
| Dried root (tea) | 1--4 g per day | Up to 4 weeks |
| Liquid extract (1:1) | 1--4 ml per day | Up to 4 weeks |
| DGL (glycyrrhizin-free) | 380--760 mg per day | Longer-term use possible |
| Glycyrrhizin limit | Max 100 mg per day | Do not exceed |
Warning: Chronic intake above 100 mg glycyrrhizin per day is associated with pseudoaldosteronism -- a condition mimicking aldosterone overproduction: high blood pressure, low potassium, muscle cramps, and edema (Isbrucker & Burdock, 2006).
DGL: The Safer Alternative
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is an extract with glycyrrhizin removed. It retains licorice's mucosal-protective properties without affecting blood pressure or electrolyte balance.
In a study by Raveendra et al. (2012), DGL (150 mg twice daily) significantly reduced functional dyspepsia symptoms over 30 days compared to placebo.
DGL is the reasonable choice for those wanting licorice's digestive benefits without the risks.
Common Mistakes
1. Excessive licorice candy consumption -- cases of hospitalization from excessive licorice consumption (50+ g candy daily for weeks) are documented in the Netherlands and Scandinavia
2. Long-term use without breaks -- even moderate doses can cause problems over months
3. Ignoring interactions -- licorice root affects diuretics, antihypertensives, warfarin, and corticosteroid medications
4. Confusing DGL with regular licorice -- these are different products with different risk profiles
Frequently Asked Questions
Is licorice candy dangerous?
Not in normal amounts. The problem arises when you eat more than 50 g of real licorice candy daily for weeks. The FDA has warned that 2 ounces (57 g) of real licorice daily for 2+ weeks can cause arrhythmia in people over 40.
Does licorice root help with heartburn?
DGL has shown moderate results for functional dyspepsia and acid reflux (Raveendra et al., 2012). It does not replace PPI medications for severe reflux, but may help with milder symptoms.
Can licorice root be used during pregnancy?
No. Glycyrrhizin has been associated with higher risk of preterm birth and lower birth weight. The EMA recommends that pregnant women avoid licorice root preparations.
How long can you use licorice root continuously?
Glycyrrhizin-containing preparations: up to 4 weeks. DGL can be used longer-term, though monitoring is still recommended.
Is licorice root safe with blood pressure medication?
No. Licorice can raise blood pressure and reduce medication effectiveness. Consult your doctor before use.
Estonia-Specific Notes
Licorice root tea and extract are available in Estonian pharmacies and health stores. Prices typically range from EUR 5--15 depending on the form. In Estonia's winter climate, respiratory issues are more common -- licorice root tea is a traditional home remedy, but dose wisely.
The MaxFit product range includes quality herbal supplements, including licorice root and DGL preparations.
References
1. Pastorino, G., Cornara, L., Soares, S. et al. (2018). Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): A phytochemical and pharmacological review. Phytotherapy Research, 32(12), 2323--2339.
2. Isbrucker, R.A. & Burdock, G.A. (2006). Risk and safety assessment on the consumption of Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza sp.), its extract and powder as a food ingredient, with emphasis on the pharmacology and toxicology of glycyrrhizin. Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, 46(3), 167--192.
3. Raveendra, K.R., Jayachandra, V., Srinivasa, V. et al. (2012). An extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra (GutGard) alleviates symptoms of functional dyspepsia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012, 216970.
4. Hajiaghamohammadi, A.A., Zargar, A., Oveisi, S. et al. (2016). To evaluate the effect of adding licorice to the standard treatment regimen of Helicobacter pylori. Brazilian Journal of Infectious Diseases, 20(6), 534--538.
Summary
Licorice root is a powerful herb, not a harmless candy ingredient. At the right doses and used short-term, it offers evidence-based benefits for the digestive tract and mucous membranes. But overdosing and long-term use can cause serious health problems. DGL is the safer choice for extended use.
Browse MaxFit herbal supplements to find a product that fits your needs.
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