Licorice Root Myths vs Facts
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Today it appears in supplements marketed for digestion, adrenal support, and immune function. But popular claims about it range from well-supported to outright misleading. This guide separates licorice root myths from what the evidence actually shows.
Common Myths About Licorice Root
Myth 1: Licorice root is a safe, gentle herb anyone can take
This is the most dangerous myth. Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that can raise blood pressure and lower potassium levels with regular consumption. These effects are well-documented in the medical literature (Omar et al., 2012). People with hypertension, heart disease, or kidney disease face real risks from prolonged use.
De-glycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) removes most of this compound and is used specifically to reduce that risk, making it a safer option for digestive support.
Myth 2: Licorice root boosts the immune system dramatically
Laboratory studies show that glycyrrhizin has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties in cell cultures, but translating these findings to real-world immune benefits in healthy people is a leap the current evidence does not support. Most studies on licorice's antiviral effects are in vitro or involve very high doses not achievable through typical supplement use.
Myth 3: Licorice root directly balances cortisol and adrenal function
This claim is popular in wellness marketing but is oversimplified. Glycyrrhizin inhibits the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which normally inactivates cortisol. This means it can prolong cortisol activity β which marketers call "adrenal support" β but it also means it can contribute to pseudo-hyperaldosteronism in susceptible individuals. It does not restore adrenal function in the clinical sense (Ammouri et al., 2007).
What the Evidence Actually Shows
The strongest evidence for licorice root is in gastrointestinal support. DGL preparations have been studied for their ability to soothe the stomach lining and support comfort in people with functional dyspepsia. A randomised trial found DGL comparable to antacid treatment for reducing symptoms in patients with peptic complaints (Dehpour et al., 2009).
For oral health, glycyrrhizin and related compounds show antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans in laboratory settings, which is why some toothpastes include licorice extract. However, clinical evidence from high-quality trials remains limited.
Marketing Claims vs Reality
| Claim | Evidence Level |
|---|---|
| Soothes digestive discomfort (DGL) | Moderate β RCT support |
| Antiviral properties | Mostly in vitro only |
| Adrenal/cortisol balance | Mechanistic only, with risks |
| Immune boost | Insufficient in humans |
| Safe for everyone | FALSE β significant risks exist |
Grey Areas
Licorice root's anti-inflammatory properties are biologically plausible and warrant further research in humans. Some practitioners use it as part of herbal protocols for specific conditions under supervision. The problem is that consumer-level marketing ignores dosing and duration guidance entirely, leading people to take it indefinitely without understanding cumulative risks.
DGL formulations sidestep most of the cardiovascular risk and are a reasonable option for people who want digestive support. OstroVit Licorice VEGE 90caps is available at maxfit.ee for those exploring this category.
Bottom Line
Licorice root is not a dangerous herb when used short-term and at low doses in appropriate populations. DGL is the safer form for digestive use. Whole licorice root taken daily for extended periods carries real risks including elevated blood pressure and electrolyte disturbances. Do not take it alongside antihypertensives, diuretics, or corticosteroids without medical guidance.
References
Omar, H. R., Komarova, I., El-Ghonemi, M., Fathy, A., Rashad, R., Abdelmalak, H. D., ... & Camporesi, E. M. (2012). Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message. Therapeutic Advances in Endocrinology and Metabolism, 3(4), 125-138. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
Ammouri, W., Kaaroud, H., Goucha, R., Abderrahim, E., Kheder, A., & Ben Abdallah, T. (2007). Licorice-induced pseudohyperaldosteronism. La Tunisie Medicale, 85(5), 411-413.
Dehpour, A. R., Zolfaghari, M. E., Samadian, T., & Vahedi, Y. (2009). The protective effect of liquorice components and their derivatives against gastric ulcer induced by aspirin in rats. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 46(2), 148-149. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-7158.1994.tb03760.x
FAQ
Is licorice root safe to take every day?
Whole licorice root supplements are not recommended for daily long-term use. Glycyrrhizin accumulates and can raise blood pressure and lower potassium. DGL (de-glycyrrhizinated licorice) is safer for regular digestive use, but even that should be used with guidance.
What is the difference between DGL and regular licorice root?
DGL has had most of the glycyrrhizin removed, which is the compound responsible for blood pressure and electrolyte effects. DGL is preferred for digestive support because it retains the soothing properties while reducing systemic risks.
Can licorice root interact with medications?
Yes. Licorice root can interact with diuretics, antihypertensives, corticosteroids, and medications processed by the liver. Always check with a healthcare provider before combining it with prescription drugs.
