Licorice, scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the legume family, Fabaceae. It is native to Southern Europe and parts of Asia and is widely cultivated for its sweet-tasting roots. The plant features compound leaves and spikes of blue to violet flowers, but it is primarily valued for its root, which contains various bioactive compounds, including glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. (22)
Licorice has a rich historical and cultural background dating back to ancient Egyptian, Chinese, and Indian cultures. In traditional herbal practices, licorice has been used for its diverse properties. Its roots are believed to possess qualities that may support the body's natural processes. Because of this, licorice has been investigated for its potential in supporting various aspects of health, such as respiratory comfort, digestive wellness, skin care, and metabolic balance. Known for its sweetening properties, licorice is also often used as a natural sweetener in the food industry. (16)
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Top Health Benefits of Licorice
Licorice root offers a variety of potential health benefits due to its rich content of bioactive compounds. Here are some of the top health benefits associated with licorice:
Licorice Root for Digestive Health
Licorice has long been valued for its potential benefits in providing digestive support and helping with various gastrointestinal complaints. One of its hallmark features is its ability to soothe the digestive tract. It does this through its demulcent properties; the polysaccharides in licorice may form a protective layer on the mucous membranes of the stomach and esophagus, offering relief from irritation (e.g., caused by excess stomach acid). Licorice may also support blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract to promote the healing of tissues. These soothing and supportive effects make licorice particularly useful in managing occasional digestive discomfort. (15)
Licorice also exhibits mild laxative properties, which may aid in relieving occasional constipation by promoting bowel movements.
Additionally, licorice has been studied for its role in supporting a healthy gut microbiome, specifically regarding the management of H. pylori presence. Clinical research shows that adding licorice to antibiotic therapy may improve outcomes compared to conventional treatment alone.
Licorice Extract for Skin Conditions
Many compounds in licorice may help reduce inflammation, balance the skin microbiome, and support the skin's natural defenses. One of its notable properties is its potential to brighten and even out skin tone. Licorice extract contains glabrene and isoliquiritigenin, compounds that may help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and melasma. (15)
Furthermore, licorice extract possesses soothing properties. This makes it particularly useful for individuals with sensitive or redness-prone skin, including those with conditions like rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis. Studies have found that topical application of licorice-derived preparations may reduce redness, itching, peeling, and swelling in these skin conditions.
Licorice extract also serves as an antioxidant, which may help protect the skin from free radical damage caused by environmental factors like UV radiation and pollution. This antioxidant activity may help maintain a youthful and healthy-looking appearance.
Licorice extract has been studied for its potential in managing acne. Clinical research in patients with mild to moderate acne shows that a topical application of licorice, calendula, and snail secretion filtrate may reduce inflammatory acne lesions compared to placebo.
Licorice and Adrenal Support
Licorice, specifically its active component glycyrrhizic acid, has been associated with adrenal support due to its impact on cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Licorice may inhibit corticoid dehydrogenase enzymes, thereby prolonging the half-life of cortisol in the body (allowing it to persist for a longer duration). This action may benefit individuals with conditions associated with low cortisol levels, such as Addison's disease. (1)
These cortisol-sparing effects have been applied to a more general application of licorice to support adrenal function during times of stress or fatigue. By helping to maintain appropriate cortisol levels, licorice may enhance the body's response to stress, potentially reducing feelings of exhaustion and supporting overall energy levels. Licorice's ability to modulate cortisol levels has led to its use in herbal adaptogenic formulations designed to support the adrenal glands and promote a healthy stress response.
Licorice Root for Respiratory Health
Like its use for digestive complaints, licorice's demulcent qualities make it an excellent botanical candidate for soothing a sore throat. A 2019 literature review concluded that topical applications of licorice before surgery (via lozenge or gargle) may reduce the incidence and severity of postoperative sore throat.
Additionally, licorice acts as an expectorant, which may aid in the thinning and expulsion of mucus from the respiratory tract. This quality is particularly valuable in managing coughs, especially those accompanied by excessive mucus production.
Research has suggested that licorice compounds may exert anti-asthmatic effects, attributed to their anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. Research has shown that adding licorice to conventional asthma medications may improve lung function markers in asthmatic patients.
Caution and Considerations
Despite its promising potential benefits, it is crucial to note that licorice should be used cautiously, as excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects, including hypertension and potassium imbalance. Therefore, while licorice holds significant potential, it should be used judiciously and under professional guidance to maximize its benefits and minimize potential risks.
Licorice and High Blood Pressure
Licorice's active component, glycyrrhizic acid (glycyrrhizin), has mineralocorticoid-like effects on the body. Mineralocorticoids are hormones, like aldosterone, that regulate electrolyte and fluid balance, primarily by increasing sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion in the kidneys. This can lead to a condition known as pseudoaldosteronism, where the body retains sodium and loses potassium, leading to high blood pressure (hypertension) and low potassium levels (hypokalemia). These effects are a particular concern for people with preexisting high blood pressure or heart or kidney disease. (13, 15)
According to the European Union, the upper limit of intake for glycyrrhizin is 100 mg/day, corresponding to 60-70 grams of crude herb. Clinical trials and in vivo studies have suggested a safe daily glycyrrhizin intake of 0.015-0.229 mg/kg body weight per day. Because of these unwanted side effects, many supplements contain a specific preparation of licorice called deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), in which the glycyrrhizic acid has been removed. (13, 22)
Licorice and Pregnancy
Oral administration of (glycyrrhizin-containing) licorice during pregnancy has been reported to have effects that may lead to pregnancy complications and poorer health outcomes in children. Licorice consumption equivalent to 500 mg of glycyrrhizin weekly during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm delivery. Therefore, patients should always consult a knowledgeable healthcare provider before using licorice while pregnant.
Licorice Supplements and Dosage
Licorice supplements are available in various forms, catering to different preferences and health needs. Dried licorice root is prepared for teas, tablets, capsules, lozenges, and liquid extracts. Licorice extracts that do not contain glycyrrhizin are called DGL and do not have the undesirable side effects associated with other forms of licorice. (11)
It is also important to note that many "licorice" products sold in the United States do not contain actual licorice. Anise oil is often used instead. Ask your healthcare provider for quality supplement recommendations to ensure you purchase a therapeutic supplemental product. (13)
Licorice dosing will vary depending on the type of herbal preparation and health problem. In general, the following doses three times daily are considered to be safe and effective (15):
- Powdered root: 1-2 grams
- Fluid extract (1:1): 2-4 mL
- Powdered extract (4:1): 250-500 mg
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Summary
Licorice is a fascinating herb with many potential properties, offering promising support for various aspects of health. However, it is crucial to approach licorice with caution and awareness. Dosing is critical; excessive consumption, especially in supplement form, can lead to adverse effects, including elevated blood pressure and potassium imbalance. Individuals – especially those with pre-existing health conditions, such as hypertension, kidney disorders, or heart conditions – should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating licorice supplements into their health regimens.
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