Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsUsesSide EffectsPrecautionsDosageStorageSimilar SupplementsSources
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Uses
Side Effects
Precautions
Dosage
Storage
Similar Supplements
Sources
The root of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabraorGlycyrrhiza uralensis) is used in traditional medicine as a digestive remedy, including heartburn andconstipationrelief. It also may be used to treat conditions includingeczema,bronchitis, andmenstrual cramps.
Most of the benefits of licorice root are thought to be due to its most active ingredient,glycyrrhizin.However, the scientific evidence is limited. Although it’s generally considered safe to use, consuming too much licorice root can lead to potentially severe side effects.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
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Purported Uses of Licorice Root
The research is quite limited, but some studies suggest that licorice root may offer certain health benefits.
Traditionally, licorice root has been used for digestive health issues, symptoms ofmenopause,cough, and certain types ofinfections.However, more research is needed to confirm these and other claims.
Below is a look at the science behind some of the purported uses of licorice root.
Respiratory Issues
Licorice root is believed to support and protect the respiratory system.
In a 2011 lab study, glycyrrhizin, the main active ingredient in licorice root, was found to have the potential to improve the effectiveness ofbronchodilatorsin people with bothasthmaandchronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD).
Another lab study found that the glycyrrhizic acid,asiaticacid, andoleanolicacids found in licorice root have an antioxidant effect that may help protect cells in the bronchi, or passages, that lead to the lungs.
These results could mean that licorice may help slow the progression of various respiratory diseases when used with standard treatments. However, although the findings seem promising, they have not yet been duplicated in human trials. Further human research is needed to support these claims.
Herbal and Alternative Remedies for COPD
Indigestion and GERD
In a small study, 18 people were given either aplacebo(inactive “sugar pill”) or a specific herbal formula containing licorice called Iberogast or STW 5. The group who took STW 5 reported greater relief of theirdyspepsiasymptoms than participants in the control group.
The study authors also noted that in a subgroup of participants with gastroesophageal reflux disease, treatment with STW 5 significantly reduced the total number of acidic reflux events.
More research is needed before determining whether licorice root can be used as a safe and effective remedy for this condition. In the meantime, consult your healthcare provider for more evidence-backed treatment options for FD.
Menopause and Menstrual Symptoms
Licorice root may help relieve symptoms of bothmenstruationandmenopause.
In a small study, licorice root extract was compared with ibuprofen to relieve pain in people with dysmenorrhea or menstrual cramps. The results from the study suggested that licorice root could be used to relieve pain from menstrual cramps due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Licorice root contains phytoestrogens, plant-based compounds that mimic the effects ofestrogenin the body. While there is some evidence of their benefits, it is unclear how well these compounds in licorice root will help in relieving symptoms of menopause.
One study from 2012 looked at 90 menopausal people withhot flashes. The researchers reported that those in the study who took 330 milligrams of licorice root per day experienced decreases in both frequency and severity of hot flashes.Once the licorice root treatment stopped, hot flash symptoms were said to return. However, more research is needed.
Peptic Ulcers
The role of licorice root in treatingpeptic ulcer diseasehas gained increasing interest in the scientific community. Notably, researchers have wanted to know its effect on a bacteria calledHelicobacter pylori(H. pylori), which is the primary cause of peptic ulcers and is difficult to treat.
A 2016 study found that, along with standard antibiotic therapy, licorice root helped eliminateH. pylori83% of the time. In the study, the group that received a placebo instead of licorice root hadH. pylorielimination in 63% of cases.
However, there was just a 20% difference between the placebo plus antibiotic and antibiotic plus licorice. Still, the researchers concluded that licorice root was significantly more successful in eliminatingH. pylorithan the placebo.
Other Research
Licorice root has been researched for other health conditions, including:
Animal and test-tube studies have also examined licorice root’s role in preventing colon cancer. Although the results were promising, the studies are preliminary and should not be used to provide evidence for licorice root’s anticancer benefits. Human trials on this matter have yet to be performed to confirm these study results.
Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider before trying licorice root for a health condition. Supplements should never replace standard care.
Does licorice root cleanse the liver?The liver does not require cleansing. However, licorice root in appropriate doses may help protect the liver due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Does licorice root cleanse the liver?
The liver does not require cleansing. However, licorice root in appropriate doses may help protect the liver due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
What Are the Side Effects of Licorice Root?
In general, licorice root is considered safe and well-tolerated in adults.
However, side effects are possible when taking licorice root and may be more likely to occur if you take too much. In addition, taking licorice root over a long period can further increase the risk of side effects. These side effects may be mild or severe.
Licorice root supplements are only intended for short-term use. Taking too much licorice root may lead to side effects.
Licorice root side effects are thought to be due to an excessive buildup of glycyrrhizin in the body. This buildup may trigger an abnormal increase in the stress hormonecortisol, which can lead to a severe imbalance in the body’s fluids andelectrolytes.
To reduce the risk of side effects,some licorice root products have removed glycyrrhizin.
Long-term use of licorice root may cause serious side effects, likehigh blood pressureandlow potassiumlevels.Because of this, it is recommended that people with heart disease,hypertension, orkidney diseaseavoid using licorice root.
In rare cases, licorice root use has led to other severe side effects, including neurological deficits,ischemicstroke, andpreterm labor.
Stop using licorice root and seek medical attention if you experience these and other severe side effects.
Some people should take precautions when using licorice root.
Research suggests that using licorice root while pregnant could harm the fetus. Large doses of licorice root may cause preterm birth and issues with growth later in life.
It is unknown if licorice root is safe to use for people who are breastfeeding. Therefore, you should avoid using licorice root if breastfeeding.
Licorice root may be safe for children to use, but in smaller amounts than adults. Your child’s healthcare provider should be consulted regarding dosage and safety.
People with hypertension, low potassium, edema, and kidney or liver problems should avoid using licorice root. This is because licorice root has been linked to side effects that could worsen these conditions.
Licorice Root Toxicity
If you take more licorice root than you should, you may be more likely to experience side effects.
Taking licorice root for long periods or in doses that are too high may cause toxicity or adverse effects. Although licorice root toxicity has been reported in small numbers, it is still a real possibility.
It is best not to take licorice root every day because there are potential health complications from glycyrrhizin accumulating in the body when taken in large doses or long-term. In rare cases, accumulation could cause:
To best prevent toxicity or adverse events from taking licorice root, never take more than recommended.
Interactions
Licorice root may interact with a number of medications. These interactions may lower how well certain medications work.
Licorice root may disrupt the breakdown of several medications due to interacting with cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver. These enzymes are needed to metabolize several popular medications, including but not limited to:
Interactions have also been found between licorice root and digoxin, a medication commonly used for heart arrhythmias.
Besides digoxin, these interactions have mostly been seen in lab settings and are theoretical. Regardless, let your healthcare provider know about any medications you are taking before starting licorice root.
It is essential to carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel of a new supplement to know which ingredients are included. Please review this supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss any potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications you may be taking.
Dosage: How Much Licorice Root Should I Take?
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your needs.
Due to a lack of research, there are no universal guidelines for licorice root dosage. It’s best to follow dosage guidelines from the supplement manufacturer or your healthcare provider.
Previous studies have estimated that a dose of 1 to 5 grams (g) of licorice root daily is safe for most adults.
However, taking too much licorice root may cause side effects. A dose of 800 milligrams (mg) or more of licorice root per day has been linked to low potassium levels.
Generally, you should always stay within the recommended dosage on the product label. You should also not take licorice root supplements for an extended period.
Talk with your healthcare provider about the right licorice root dose for you.
Supplement FactsActive ingredient(s): Glycyrrhizin, glabridin, licochalcone A, licoricidin, licorisoflavan AAlternate name(s):Licorice root, licorice, liquorice, sweet root, gan cao, gan zao, Chinese licorice,Glycyrrhiza glabra,Glycyrrhiza uralensis,Glycyrrhiza inflata.Legal status:Legal and sold over-the-counter (OTC) in the United States.Suggested dose:More high-quality research is needed before a safe and generalized licorice root dose can be recommended.Safety considerations:Side effects are possible when taking licorice root. Some side effects can be severe, including changes toblood pressureand/or potassium levels in the body.
Supplement Facts
Active ingredient(s): Glycyrrhizin, glabridin, licochalcone A, licoricidin, licorisoflavan AAlternate name(s):Licorice root, licorice, liquorice, sweet root, gan cao, gan zao, Chinese licorice,Glycyrrhiza glabra,Glycyrrhiza uralensis,Glycyrrhiza inflata.Legal status:Legal and sold over-the-counter (OTC) in the United States.Suggested dose:More high-quality research is needed before a safe and generalized licorice root dose can be recommended.Safety considerations:Side effects are possible when taking licorice root. Some side effects can be severe, including changes toblood pressureand/or potassium levels in the body.
How to Store Licorice Root
Store licorice root supplements properly according to the instructions on the packaging to prevent spoiling and increase their shelf-life. Generally, you should keep licorice root in a cool, dry spot out of direct sunlight. Typically, you do not need to refrigerate licorice root extract but follow storage directions on the product packaging.
Keep licorice root supplements out of reach of small children and pets to prevent accidental consumption. Throw away licorice root supplements once they have reached their expiration date.
Other supplements on the market may work similarly to licorice root. These similar supplements include:
Typically, it is recommended that you avoid using more than one supplement for the same health concern at a time. Talk with your healthcare provider about which supplement is best for you.
Supplements should never replace standard medical care. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if you are not feeling well or dealing with a potential health condition.
Sources of Licorice Root and What to Look For
Regarding the use of licorice root for its potential benefits, supplements may be best. This is because licorice root is not commonly found in foods, at least not in amounts as high as you may need.
Food Sources of Licorice Root
Licorice candy is not the same as licorice root supplements. Unlike licorice root supplements, licorice candy contains extra ingredients likesugar, starch, and various binders.
You may find licorice root in candy, other foods, beverages, and tobacco products.
Moreover, studies examining the potential health benefits of licorice root have looked at its use in various supplement forms.
Licorice Root Supplements
Licorice root supplements come in many forms that you can find online or in many health food stores.
Supplement forms of licorice root include:
Licorice root is also sometimes added to topical treatments.
For best results, talk with your healthcare provider before using any licorice root product.
Summary
Licorice root is said to help with digestive issues, respiratory issues, menopausal symptoms, and more. While generally considered safe to take, people with heart disease, hypertension, or kidney disease should avoid using licorice root.
It’s important to follow dosage guidelines when taking licorice root, as excessive intake and use long-term may increase health risks. Speak with your healthcare provider before taking licorice root to ensure it’s safe for you.
35 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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