Licorice Root Safety: What Every User Should Know
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long history of use in supplements — for digestive support, adrenal health, and as an adaptogen. However, licorice root safety is a more pressing concern than with most herbs. Its key compound, glycyrrhizin, alters body chemistry in ways that can produce moderate to serious side effects with prolonged use.
Common and Rare Side Effects
The most well-documented side effect of licorice root is elevated blood pressure. Glycyrrhizin inhibits the enzyme 11-beta-HSD2, leading to cortisol accumulation in the kidneys and increased sodium retention. This raises blood pressure. Additional reported effects include edema, headache, and hypokalemia (low potassium).
Rarer effects include pseudoaldosteronism — a condition mimicking high aldosterone without actual hormone elevation. With prolonged high-dose use, cardiac arrhythmias have been described (Armanini et al., 2002).
The DGL form (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) has reduced glycyrrhizin content and is considered safer for digestive applications since systemic absorption is much lower.
Upper Safe Limits
EFSA has assessed glycyrrhizin and recommends caution even at moderate intake levels, particularly in sensitive individuals. For typical supplementation, following the manufacturer's label directions is the baseline. Continuous high-dose use over several weeks is not advisable.
OstroVit Licorice VEGE 90caps is available at maxfit.ee — always check the label for the recommended dose and do not exceed it.
Drug and Nutrient Interactions
Licorice root has meaningful interactions with several drug classes:
- Antihypertensives: glycyrrhizin may blunt the effect of blood pressure medications.
- Corticosteroids: combination may increase cortisol retention risk.
- Diuretics: compounded potassium loss can increase hypokalemia risk.
- Digoxin: hypokalemia raises the risk of digitalis toxicity.
If you take any prescription medications, consult a physician before starting licorice root supplementation.
Who Should Avoid Licorice Root
The following groups should avoid licorice root or use it only under medical supervision:
- People with diagnosed hypertension
- Pregnant women (glycyrrhizin has been linked to adverse fetal outcomes in some studies)
- Those with kidney disease
- Patients with heart failure
- Anyone with hypokalemia or potassium-depleting conditions
Quality and Contamination
Licorice root has a documented history of contamination with heavy metals (lead, cadmium) and pesticides, particularly from Asian sourcing. Look for products tested by an independent third party and manufactured under GMP conditions. Consuming licorice root from unverified sources can be hazardous regardless of dose.
All licorice root supplements available at MaxFit are sourced from reputable manufacturers. Browse the full range in the licorice root category.
FAQ
Can you take licorice root every day?
Short-term use (up to two weeks) is generally safe for most healthy adults when label directions are followed. Long-term daily use is not recommended without medical supervision, particularly if blood pressure issues are present.
What is the difference between licorice root and DGL licorice?
DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is processed to significantly reduce glycyrrhizin content. It is considered safer for digestive complaints because systemic effects on blood pressure and potassium balance are much lower. Standard licorice root extract retains glycyrrhizin intact.
Is licorice root safe during pregnancy?
Pregnant women are advised to avoid licorice root. Glycyrrhizin has been associated with effects on fetal development in some research. Consult your doctor before use.
References
Stormer, F. C., Reistad, R., & Alexander, J. (1993). Glycyrrhizic acid in liquorice — evaluation of health hazard. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 31(4), 303–312. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8386690/
Armanini, D., Bonanni, G., Mattarello, M. J., Fiore, C., Sartorato, P., & Palermo, M. (2002). Licorice consumption and serum testosterone in healthy man. Experimental and Clinical Endocrinology & Diabetes, 110(5), 257-261. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12373628/
Batiha, G. E., Beshbishy, A. M., El-Mleeh, A., Abdel-Daim, M. M., & Devkota, H. P. (2020). Traditional uses, bioactive chemical constituents, and pharmacological and toxicological activities of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. Biomolecules, 10(3), 352. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32019140/
