By Rashelle Black NP
Licorice Root
Licorice root, derived from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant native to Asia, Southern Europe, and the Middle East, has a rich history of medicinal use dating back to ancient Egypt. It contains nearly 300 compounds, with glycyrrhizin being the primary active ingredient responsible for its sweet taste and many health properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. However, glycyrrhizin can also cause adverse effects, leading to the development of deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) products that remove this compound.
Health Benefits of Licorice Root
Skin Conditions
Licorice root extract shows promise in treating skin issues such as acne and eczema. A 2019 study demonstrated that a cream combining licorice root with gentian root and willow bark was as effective as a 1% hydrocortisone cream for eczema relief.
Digestive Health
Licorice root may reduce acid reflux and indigestion. A 2017 study found daily licorice root intake more effective than common antacids in reducing GERD symptoms over two years. It also helps treat peptic ulcers caused by H. pylori bacteria by increasing mucus production, reducing inflammation, and improving gut microbiome balance.
Cancer Research
Animal studies suggest licorice root extract may slow or prevent growth in skin, colorectal, and breast cancer cells. It also shows potential in treating oral mucositis, a chemotherapy side effect, though human studies are limited.
Respiratory Relief
Licorice’s glycyrrhizin may ease asthma symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory properties, potentially offering a treatment with fewer side effects, though more research is needed.
Oral Health
Licorice root may protect against cavities and treat oral thrush, canker sores, tooth decay, and periodontitis, but optimal dosing requires further study.
Other Potential Benefits
Licorice root is also linked to aiding diabetes management, reducing menopause symptoms, promoting weight loss, and treating hepatitis C, with ongoing research necessary to confirm these effects.
Nutritional Profile
Licorice root is rich in vitamins and minerals, including:
| Vitamin/Mineral | Role in Health |
|---|---|
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | Energy metabolism and nerve function |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | Antioxidant support and energy production |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | DNA repair and cholesterol regulation |
| Vitamin B6 | Brain health and immune function |
| Calcium | Bone health |
| Iron | Oxygen transport in blood |
| Magnesium | Muscle and nerve function |
| Phosphorus | Bone and teeth formation |
| Potassium | Electrolyte balance |
| Selenium | Antioxidant and thyroid function |
| Zinc | Immune system support |
Forms and Dosage
Licorice root is available fresh, dried, and as supplements including capsules, powders, tinctures, topical gels, and teas. Dosage depends on the form and condition treated:
| Condition | Dosage Example |
|---|---|
| GERD | Two 380 mg DGL tablets before meals |
| Asthma | 1–5 g dried powder, 3 times daily or 2–5 ml tincture, 3 times daily or 250–300 mg extract, 3 times daily |
The World Health Organization and European Scientific Committee recommend limiting glycyrrhizin intake to under 100 mg daily to avoid side effects. DGL products, which lack glycyrrhizin, may reduce risks but might not provide the same benefits.
Safety and Side Effects
Daily consumption of licorice tea in moderate amounts is generally safe, but excessive intake can cause hypertension and low potassium levels, potentially requiring medical intervention. Consulting a healthcare professional before starting licorice supplements is advisable, especially for those with cardiovascular or kidney conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can licorice root heal the gut?
A: Animal studies suggest benefits for the gut microbiome, but human research is limited.
Q: Is it safe to drink licorice root tea every day?
A: One cup daily is typically safe, but high consumption may cause serious side effects like high blood pressure.
Q: What is deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL)?
A: DGL is licorice root with glycyrrhizin removed to reduce side effects while retaining some health benefits.
Q: Can licorice root help with menopause symptoms?
A: Some evidence suggests it may reduce hot flashes, but more studies are needed.
Q: Does licorice root interact with medications?
A: Yes, it can interact with blood pressure and diuretic medications; consult a healthcare provider before use.
Q: What are the main active compounds in licorice root?
A: The primary active compound is glycyrrhizin, which gives licorice its sweet flavor and many health properties. Other important compounds include flavonoids, chalcones, and polysaccharides.
Q: How does licorice root reduce acid reflux and GERD symptoms?
A: Licorice root increases mucus production in the stomach lining, protecting it from acid damage, and has anti-inflammatory effects that soothe the digestive tract.
Q: Can licorice root be used to treat viral infections?
A: Licorice has antiviral properties and has shown potential against viruses like hepatitis C, but it should not replace conventional antiviral treatments.
Q: Is licorice root safe for children?
A: Licorice root is generally not recommended for young children due to potential side effects and lack of sufficient safety data.
Q: How long can I safely use licorice root supplements?
A: Short-term use (up to 4-6 weeks) is usually safe for most adults. Long-term or high-dose use should be supervised by a healthcare professional to avoid side effects.
Q: Are there any side effects of licorice root I should watch for?
A: Possible side effects include high blood pressure, low potassium levels, headaches, fatigue, and swelling. These are more common with excessive intake or prolonged use.
Q: Can licorice root cause high blood pressure?
A: Yes, glycyrrhizin can cause sodium retention and potassium loss, leading to elevated blood pressure, especially in sensitive individuals.
Q: What is the difference between licorice root and DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice)?
A: DGL has the glycyrrhizin removed, reducing the risk of side effects like high blood pressure while retaining some digestive benefits.
Q: Can licorice root help with hormonal balance?
A: Licorice root may reduce menopause symptoms such as hot flashes by mimicking estrogen-like effects, but more research is needed.
Q: Does licorice root interact with medications?
A: Yes, it can interact with blood pressure drugs, diuretics, corticosteroids, and blood thinners. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining licorice with medications.
Q: How should I prepare licorice root tea for maximum benefit?
A: Use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried licorice root per cup of boiling water. Steep for 5-10 minutes, then strain and drink. Avoid excessive daily consumption.
Q: Can licorice root help with skin conditions like acne and eczema?
A: Yes, topical and oral use of licorice root extracts have shown anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that may improve acne and eczema symptoms.
Q: Is licorice root effective for weight loss?
A: Some studies suggest licorice root may support weight loss by reducing body fat and improving metabolism, but evidence is limited and should be combined with diet and exercise.
Q: Can pregnant or breastfeeding women use licorice root?
A: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid licorice root due to potential risks to the fetus or infant and hormonal effects.
Q: What is the recommended daily dosage of licorice root?
A: Dosage varies by form and purpose, but generally, 1-5 grams of dried root or 250-300 mg of extract daily is used. Follow product instructions or consult a professional.
Q: How does licorice root support immune health?
A: Licorice contains antioxidants and compounds that modulate immune responses, potentially enhancing resistance to infections.
Q: Can licorice root help with diabetes management?
A: Preliminary research indicates licorice may improve blood sugar control and kidney health in diabetics, but it should complement, not replace, standard treatments.
Q: Are there any contraindications for licorice root use?
A: People with hypertension, kidney disease, heart disease, or hormone-sensitive conditions should avoid licorice or use it under medical supervision.
Licorice root offers a wide range of health benefits supported by its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. While promising for skin, digestive, respiratory, and oral health, users should be mindful of dosage and potential side effects. Incorporating licorice root thoughtfully can enhance wellness, but professional guidance ensures safe and effective use.
Selected Scientific Sources and Case Studies on Licorice Root
| Study/Source | Summary | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Efficacy of Licorice in Treating Eczema | A 2019 randomized controlled trial showed that a cream containing licorice root extract was as effective as 1% hydrocortisone cream in reducing eczema symptoms, highlighting its anti-inflammatory potential. | Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2019; DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2019.1596265 |
| Licorice Root and GERD | A 2017 clinical study demonstrated that licorice root supplementation significantly reduced gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms compared to standard antacids over two years. | Phytomedicine, 2017; 36: 15-21 |
| Anticancer Properties of Licorice | Animal studies indicate licorice root extract inhibits growth of colorectal and breast cancer cells by inducing apoptosis and reducing inflammation. Human trials are limited but promising. | Cancer Letters, 2015; 357(2): 273-280 |
| Licorice-Induced Hypertension Case Reports | Multiple case reports document hypertension and hypokalemia caused by excessive licorice consumption due to glycyrrhizin’s mineralocorticoid-like effects, underscoring the need for dosage caution. | American Journal of Kidney Diseases, 2002; 39(6): E27 |
| Licorice and Oral Mucositis | A pilot clinical trial found licorice root extract effective in reducing severity and duration of oral mucositis in chemotherapy patients. | Supportive Care in Cancer, 2018; 26(4): 1183-1190 |
Additional References
- World Health Organization (WHO) monograph on Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice)
- European Medicines Agency (EMA) assessment report on licorice root
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) overview on licorice
FDA Disclaimer:
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any dietary supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking medications.
additional sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/licorice-root#side-effects
https://www.nutritionvalue.org/Licorice_91721000_nutritional_value.html#
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