💡 What You Need to Know Right Away
- Liver Protection: A meta-analysis of 15 RCTs with 1,367 participants found licorice significantly reduced ALT liver enzymes by 15.63 U/L.[Evidence: A][3]
- Anti-Inflammatory Power: Comprehensive analysis of 198 studies confirms licorice provides anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immunomodulatory effects.[Evidence: A][10]
- Respiratory Support: Meta-analysis of 5 RCTs (609 patients) showed licorice reduced postoperative sore throat incidence by 56% (RR 0.44).[Evidence: A][13]
- Critical Safety Note: Chronic consumption carries risks including hypokalemia (low potassium) and hypertension—avoid if you have high blood pressure.[Evidence: A][2]
You've probably encountered licorice root as a flavoring in candy or tea. But this ancient herb—known scientifically as Glycyrrhiza glabra—has been a cornerstone of traditional medicine for thousands of years. Today, modern science is validating what healers have known for centuries.
If you're curious whether licorice root can genuinely support your health, you're asking the right question. With so much conflicting information online, it's hard to separate fact from marketing hype. That's exactly why we've analyzed 14 peer-reviewed studies to bring you the complete picture.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover the 12 evidence-based benefits of licorice root, learn the safe dosages backed by clinical trials, understand who should avoid it entirely, and get practical tips for incorporating it into your wellness routine. Let's explore what the science actually says.
❓ Quick Answers
What are the health benefits of licorice root?
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) offers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Research supports benefits for digestive health including GERD and ulcers, liver protection, respiratory support, skin conditions, and oral health. However, it can raise blood pressure and lower potassium levels, requiring cautious use.[Evidence: A][1]
What are the side effects of licorice root?
The main side effects include elevated blood pressure, low potassium (hypokalemia), fluid retention, headaches, and fatigue. A meta-analysis of 26 clinical trials found diastolic blood pressure increased by approximately 1.7 mmHg. These effects are caused by glycyrrhizin interfering with cortisol metabolism.[Evidence: A][6]
What is DGL licorice and how is it different?
DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is licorice with 97% or more of glycyrrhizin removed. This eliminates the blood pressure and potassium concerns associated with regular licorice. A Phase III trial with 200 participants showed DGL effectively relieved GERD symptoms within two weeks without significant adverse events.[Evidence: B][8]
Does licorice root raise blood pressure?
Yes, regular licorice containing glycyrrhizin raises blood pressure. A 2024 meta-analysis confirmed that glycyrrhizic acid-dominant products increase both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. However, licorice flavonoid-dominant products and DGL do not significantly affect blood pressure.[Evidence: A][11]
Can licorice root help with acid reflux?
Yes, particularly DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice). A 2025 Phase III randomized controlled trial with 200 participants found that GutGard® (a DGL extract) provided significantly better quality of life and earlier symptom relief for heartburn and regurgitation within two weeks of treatment compared to placebo.[Evidence: B][8]
Licorice Root
Known scientifically as Glycyrrhiza glabra, licorice root has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments ranging from digestive issues to adrenal fatigue.
🔬 How Does Licorice Root Work?
Understanding how licorice root works in your body helps explain both its benefits and its risks. Think of glycyrrhizin—the primary active compound—as a master key that unlocks multiple doors in your body's biochemical pathways. Some doors lead to healing; others can cause problems if left open too long.
The Anti-Inflammatory Pathway
Licorice contains over 300 bioactive compounds, with glycyrrhizin, glabridin, liquiritin, and licochalcone A being the most studied. These compounds work like a team of firefighters targeting inflammation from multiple angles. They regulate inflammatory pathways and reduce oxidative stress throughout the body.[Evidence: D][7]
A comprehensive analysis of 198 peer-reviewed articles confirmed that these bioactive compounds provide anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immunomodulatory effects with particular relevance for respiratory tract infections.[Evidence: A][10]
The Cortisol Connection (And Why It Matters)
Here's where things get interesting—and where caution becomes critical. When you consume licorice, glycyrrhizin converts to glycyrrhetic acid in your body. This metabolite inhibits an enzyme called 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD2) in your kidneys.[Evidence: A][2]
Normally, 11β-HSD2 inactivates cortisol in the kidneys. When licorice blocks this enzyme, cortisol accumulates and activates mineralocorticoid receptors. This causes your body to retain sodium and excrete potassium—leading to the blood pressure increases and potassium depletion that make licorice risky for some people.[Evidence: D][5]
Liver-Protective Mechanisms
Clinical evidence strongly supports licorice's liver-protective effects. A meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials with 1,367 participants demonstrated that licorice significantly reduced ALT by 15.63 U/L and aspartate aminotransferase levels, with purified glycyrrhizic acid compounds showing particularly strong results.[Evidence: A][3]
Antimicrobial and Antiviral Activity
Licorice demonstrates benefits in treating throat infections and respiratory ailments through its antimicrobial properties. A meta-analysis of 5 RCTs involving 609 patients found that topical licorice application reduced the incidence of postoperative sore throat by 56% (RR 0.44) and reduced severity as well.[Evidence: A][13]
Research also confirms efficacy for oral health. A systematic review found topical licorice effective for managing recurrent aphthous stomatitis (mouth ulcers), supported by its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.[Evidence: A][12]
📊 Dosage and How to Use
Getting the dosage right is crucial with licorice root. Too little may be ineffective; too much increases the risk of side effects. The following table summarizes dosages from clinical trials with documented outcomes.
| Purpose/Condition | Form | Dosage | Duration | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) | Licorice root powder | 1,000 mg daily | 12 weeks | [B][4] |
| GERD / Acid reflux symptoms | DGL extract (GutGard®) | 150 mg twice daily | 28 days | [B][8] |
| Anti-inflammatory support (COVID-19 study) | Licorice extract | 760 mg three times daily | 7 days | [B][14] |
| Liver enzyme support (meta-analysis range) | Various preparations | Varies by preparation | 4-24 weeks | [A][3] |
Important Dosage Considerations
- Maximum Duration: Most clinical trials limited use to 12 weeks or less. Long-term safety data beyond this period is limited.
- Choose DGL for Digestive Issues: If your primary goal is digestive support, DGL eliminates blood pressure concerns while maintaining efficacy.[Evidence: B][8]
- NAFLD Results: A randomized double-blind trial with 60 women found that 1,000 mg daily licorice root for 12 weeks produced significant improvements in liver enzymes, insulin regulation, and oxidative stress markers compared to placebo.[Evidence: B][4]
- Consult Healthcare Provider: Always discuss licorice supplementation with your healthcare provider, especially if you take any medications or have existing health conditions.
⚠️ Risks, Side Effects, and Warnings
Who Should Avoid Licorice Root?
- People with high blood pressure or heart conditions
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women (girls with high prenatal exposure showed advanced pubertal development)[Evidence: C][9]
- Individuals with kidney disease
- People with low potassium levels
- Those taking diuretics, corticosteroids, or blood pressure medications
- Anyone planning long-term use without medical supervision
Risk Factors for Pseudoaldosteronism
Certain factors increase your susceptibility to licorice-induced pseudoaldosteronism (the condition causing blood pressure and potassium problems). These include: high dosage, long-term use, constipation (which affects metabolite elimination), low albumin levels, elevated bilirubin, and advanced age. The metabolites are eliminated through bile, so liver function is particularly important for susceptibility.[Evidence: D][5]
Drug Interactions
Licorice may interact with several medication classes:
- Diuretics: Additive potassium depletion risk
- Corticosteroids: Enhanced mineralocorticoid effects
- Blood pressure medications: May reduce effectiveness
- Digoxin: Hypokalemia increases digoxin toxicity risk
- Warfarin and blood thinners: Potential interaction
Always consult your healthcare provider before combining licorice with any medications.[Evidence: A][2]
🥗 Practical Ways to Use Licorice Root
1. Licorice Root Tea
The simplest way to enjoy licorice root is as a tea:
- Use 1 tablespoon of dried licorice root per cup of water
- Simmer (don't boil) for 10-15 minutes
- Strain and enjoy warm
- Limit to 1-2 cups daily and not for extended periods
2. DGL Supplements for Digestive Support
If you're targeting acid reflux or digestive issues, DGL is your best choice. Clinical trials used 150 mg twice daily with meals. Look for products standardized for glabridin content and free of glycyrrhizin.[Evidence: B][8]
3. Topical Applications for Oral Health
Licorice has proven effective for mouth ulcers (aphthous stomatitis). Look for licorice-containing mouthwashes or topical gels. A systematic review confirmed this application is both effective and well-tolerated.[Evidence: A][12]
4. Quality Selection Criteria
When choosing licorice supplements:
- Look for standardized extracts with stated glycyrrhizin percentage
- Choose third-party tested products (USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab verified)
- Select DGL if you have any blood pressure concerns
- Verify GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certification
- Check for organic certification when possible
⚖️ Licorice Root vs. DGL: Which Should You Choose?
Understanding the difference between regular licorice and DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is essential for safe, effective use.
| Feature | Regular Licorice Root | DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated) |
|---|---|---|
| Glycyrrhizin Content | 10-25% (varies by product) | <3% (97%+ removed) |
| Blood Pressure Effect | Increases BP (DBP +1.7 mmHg)[6] | No significant effect[11] |
| Potassium Effect | Causes potassium depletion[2] | Minimal to none |
| Best For | Short-term respiratory/immune support | Digestive issues (GERD, ulcers) |
| Safe for Hypertensive Patients | No—should avoid[6] | Generally yes (consult doctor) |
| Clinical Trial Support for GERD | Limited | Phase III RCT positive[8] |
| Metabolic Effects | Reduced body weight (0.4 kg), lowered BMI[6] | Not studied for weight |
Decision Guide
Choose DGL if: You have any blood pressure concerns, take medications for heart conditions, want digestive support, or plan to use licorice regularly.
Choose Regular Licorice if: You have normal blood pressure, want short-term respiratory or immune support, and can monitor your use carefully under healthcare guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is licorice root safe to take daily?
Daily use of regular licorice root (containing glycyrrhizin) is not recommended for extended periods due to cumulative effects on blood pressure and potassium levels. A meta-analysis of 26 clinical trials demonstrated these metabolic effects occur with regular consumption. If you need daily digestive support, DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is a safer alternative—a Phase III trial showed it was effective and well-tolerated for daily use over 28 days. For regular licorice, limit use to short periods (typically under 4-6 weeks) and monitor for symptoms like swelling, headaches, or fatigue.
What is the recommended dosage for licorice root?
Dosage depends on the form and purpose. Clinical trials have used: 1,000 mg daily of licorice root powder for NAFLD (12 weeks), 150 mg twice daily of DGL extract for GERD (28 days), and 760 mg three times daily of licorice extract for short-term anti-inflammatory support (7 days). There is no universally agreed 'safe' upper limit, but most authorities recommend avoiding more than 100 mg of glycyrrhizin daily from all sources. For liver support, a meta-analysis of 15 RCTs found various preparations effective, with purified glycyrrhizic acid showing particularly strong results.
Can pregnant women take licorice root?
No, pregnant women should avoid licorice root. A study following 378 children from the Helsinki birth cohort found that high maternal licorice intake (≥500 mg/week glycyrrhizin) during pregnancy was associated with concerning outcomes in children: 7 points lower IQ scores and elevated ADHD risk. Additionally, girls with high prenatal exposure were taller, heavier, and showed advanced pubertal development. The mechanism involves glycyrrhizin crossing the placenta and affecting fetal cortisol metabolism. Even moderate licorice consumption should be avoided during pregnancy. If you crave the flavor, licorice-flavored products made with anise (which contains no glycyrrhizin) are a safe alternative.
Does licorice root interact with medications?
Yes, licorice root has documented interactions with several medication classes. The primary concern is its mineralocorticoid-like activity from glycyrrhizin metabolism. Licorice has been shown to interact with: diuretics (additive potassium depletion), corticosteroids (enhanced mineralocorticoid effects), antihypertensive medications (reduced effectiveness), digoxin (hypokalemia increases toxicity risk), and warfarin. Clinical reviews note that licorice treated liver disease and gastrointestinal conditions but chronic consumption carries risks when combined with medications affecting potassium or blood pressure. Always inform your healthcare provider if you use licorice supplements.
How long can you safely take licorice root?
Most clinical trials limited licorice use to 12 weeks or less, and this is a reasonable maximum for regular licorice containing glycyrrhizin. The NAFLD trial used 12 weeks of daily supplementation safely. Shorter durations (4-8 weeks) are common in other studies. Risk factors that shorten safe duration include: high dosage, constipation (affects elimination), low albumin, elevated bilirubin, and advanced age. The metabolites responsible for side effects are eliminated through bile, so liver function affects how long you can safely use licorice. DGL can be used longer since the problematic compound is removed. For any use beyond 4 weeks, medical supervision is advisable.
What is glycyrrhizin in licorice?
Glycyrrhizin (also called glycyrrhizic acid) is the primary active compound in licorice root, responsible for both its sweet taste (50 times sweeter than sugar) and most of its biological effects. When consumed, glycyrrhizin converts to glycyrrhetic acid, which inhibits the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2) in the kidneys. This inhibition allows cortisol to accumulate and activate mineralocorticoid receptors, explaining both the anti-inflammatory benefits and the blood pressure/potassium side effects. Glycyrrhizin content in licorice products typically ranges from 2-25%. DGL products have 97%+ of glycyrrhizin removed to eliminate these effects while preserving other beneficial compounds like glabridin and flavonoids.
Our Accuracy Commitment and Editorial Principles
At Biochron, we take health information seriously. Every claim in this article is supported by peer-reviewed scientific evidence from reputable sources published in 2015 or later. We use a rigorous evidence-grading system to help you understand the strength of research behind each statement:
- [Evidence: A] = Systematic review or meta-analysis (strongest evidence)
- [Evidence: B] = Randomized controlled trial (RCT)
- [Evidence: C] = Cohort or case-control study
- [Evidence: D] = Expert opinion or clinical guideline
Our editorial team follows strict guidelines: we never exaggerate health claims, we clearly distinguish between correlation and causation, we update content regularly as new research emerges, and we transparently note when evidence is limited or conflicting. For our complete editorial standards, visit our Editorial Principles page.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals before making changes to your health regimen, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications.
References
- 1 . Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A Comprehensive Review on Its Phytochemistry, Biological Activities, Clinical Evidence and Toxicology. Wahab S, et al. Plants (Basel, Switzerland), 2021; 10(12): 2751. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
- 2 . A Review of the Pharmacological Efficacy and Safety of Licorice Root from Corroborative Clinical Trial Findings. Kwon YJ, et al. Journal of Medicinal Food, 2020; 23(1): 12-20. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
- 3 . Licorice and liver function in patients with primary liver disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs. Giangrandi I, et al. Phytotherapy Research, 2024; 38(9): 4614-4627. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
- 4 . Effects of licorice root supplementation on liver enzymes, hepatic steatosis, metabolic and oxidative stress parameters in women with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Rostamizadeh P, et al. Phytotherapy Research, 2022; 36(10): 3949-3956. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: B]
- 5 . Clinical Risk Factors of Licorice-Induced Pseudoaldosteronism Based on Glycyrrhizin-Metabolite Concentrations: A Narrative Review. Yoshino T, et al. Frontiers in Nutrition, 2021; 8: 719197. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: D]
- 6 . Metabolic changes after licorice consumption: A systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of clinical trials. Luís Â, et al. Phytomedicine, 2018; 39: 17-24. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
- 7 . The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)-Derived Compounds in Intestinal Disorders. Leite CDS, et al. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2022; 23(8): 4121. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: D]
- 8 . Efficacy and Safety of GutGard® in Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux-Related Symptoms: A Phase III, Single-Centre, Double-Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Raj JP, et al. Complementary Medicine Research, 2025; 32(1): 26-36. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: B]
- 9 . Maternal Licorice Consumption During Pregnancy and Pubertal, Cognitive, and Psychiatric Outcomes in Children. Räikkönen K, et al. American Journal of Epidemiology, 2017; 185(5): 317-328. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: C]
- 10 . Revisiting liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) as anti-inflammatory, antivirals and immunomodulators: Potential pharmacological applications with mechanistic insight. Bisht D, et al. Phytomedicine Plus, 2022; 2(1): 100206. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
- 11 . Effects of Licorice Functional Components Intakes on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis and NETWORK Toxicology. Wu T, et al. Nutrients, 2024; 16(21): 3768. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
- 12 . Topical Licorice for Aphthous: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials. Dorsareh F, et al. Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences, 2023; 48(5): 437-447. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
- 13 . Topical application of licorice for prevention of postoperative sore throat in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Kuriyama A, Maeda H. Journal of Clinical Anesthesia, 2019; 54: 25-32. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
- 14 . Efficacy and safety of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) in moderately ill patients with COVID-19: a randomized controlled trial. Ameri A, et al. Inflammopharmacology, 2023; 31(6): 3037-3045. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: B]
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions and before making any changes to their health routine, including starting new supplements.
Neither Biochron nor the author takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person reading or following the information in this educational content. All readers, especially those taking prescription medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program.
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