Licorice Root - Benefits, Uses, Precautions, and Dosage

6/14/2020 Licorice Root: Benefits, Uses, Precautions, and Dosage
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What Are Licorice Root's Benefits and

Downsides?
Written by Kelli McGrane, MS, RD on June 12, 2020 — Medically reviewed by
Kathy W. Warwick, R.D., CDE
Uses Benefits Side effects Dosage & forms Bottom line
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Licorice root, which is considered one of the world’s oldest herbal

remedies, comes from the root of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
(1  ).
Native to Western Asia and Southern Europe, licorice has long been used
to treat various ailments and flavor candies, drinks, and medicines (1  ,
2  ).
Despite this history, only some of its uses are backed by scientific
research. Furthermore, licorice may carry several health risks.
This article examines the uses, forms, benefits, side effects, and
recommended dosage of licorice root.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/licorice-root 1/16
How is licorice root used?

Medicinal use of licorice dates back to ancient Egypt, where the root was
made into a sweet drink for pharaohs (1  , 2  ).
It has also been used in traditional Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Greek
medicines to soothe an upset stomach, reduce inflammation, and treat
upper respiratory problems (2  , 3  ).
Contemporary uses
Today, many people utilize licorice root to treat ailments like heartburn,
acid reflux, hot flashes, coughs, and bacterial and viral infections. It’s
regularly available as a capsule or liquid supplement (2  ).
Additionally, licorice tea is said to soothe sore throats, while topical gels
are claimed to treat skin conditions like acne or eczema (4  ).
What’s more, licorice is used to flavor some foods and beverages (5  ).
Surprisingly, many licorice candies are flavored not with licorice root but
with anise oil — an essential oil from the anise plant (Pimpinella anisum)
that has a similar taste.
Plant compounds 
While it contains hundreds of plant compounds, licorice root’s primary

active compound is glycyrrhizin (1  , 3  ).
Glycyrrhizin is responsible for the root’s sweet taste, as well as its

antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties (1  , 3  , 6  ).
However, glycyrrhizin is also linked to many of the adverse effects of

licorice root. As a result, some products use deglycyrrhizinated licorice
(DGL), which has had the glycyrrhizin removed (1  ).
SUMMARY
Licorice root is used both as a flavoring agent and medicinal

treatment. It comes in many forms, including teas, capsules,
liquids, and even topical gels.
Potential benefits
Current research shows promise for several of licorice root’s medicinal
uses.
May aid skin conditions
Licorice root contains over 300 compounds, some of which demonstrate

potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral effects (3  , 7  , 8  ).
In particular, animal and test-tube studies link glycyrrhizin to anti-

inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits (1  , 3  , 5  ).
As a result, licorice root extract is used to treat a variety of skin conditions,

including acne and eczema.
In a 2-week study in 60 adults, applying a topical gel containing licorice

root extract significantly improved eczema (4  ).
Though topical licorice gels have also been used to treat acne, research

on its effectiveness is mixed and quite limited (9  ).
May reduce acid reflux and indigestion
Licorice root extract is often used to relieve symptoms of indigestion,

such as acid reflux, upset stomach, and heartburn.
In a 30-day study in 50 adults with indigestion, taking a 75-mg licorice

capsule twice daily resulted in significant improvements in symptoms,
compared with a placebo (10  ).
Licorice root extract may also alleviate symptoms of gastroesophageal

reflux disease (GERD), including acid reflux and heartburn.
In an 8-week study in 58 adults with GERD, a low dose of glycyrrhetinic

acid in combination with standard treatment resulted in significant
improvements in symptoms (11  ).
Another study in 58 adults with GERD noted that the daily use of licorice
root was more effective at reducing symptoms over a 2-year period than
commonly used antacids (12).
While these results are promising, larger human studies are necessary.
May help treat peptic ulcers
Peptic ulcers are painful sores that develop in your stomach, lower
esophagus, or small intestine. They’re commonly caused by inflammation
resulting from H. pylori bacteria (13  ).
Licorice root extract and its glycyrrhizin may help treat peptic ulcers.
One study in mice found that licorice extract doses of 91 mg per pound
(200 mg per kg) of body weight protected against these ulcers better
than omeprazole, a common peptic ulcer medication (14  ).
While more research is needed in humans, a 2-week study in 120 adults

showed that consuming licorice extract in addition to a standard
treatment significantly reduced the presence of H. pylori (15  ).
May have anticancer properties


Due to its content of numerous plant compounds with antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory effects, licorice root extract has been studied for its
protective effects against certain types of cancer (16  ).
In particular, licorice extract and its compounds have been linked to

slowing or preventing cell growth in skin, breast, colorectal, and prostate
cancers (16  , 17  , 18  , 19  ).
As research is limited to test tubes and animals, its effects on human

cancers are unknown.
Yet, licorice root extract may help treat oral mucositis — very painful
mouth sores that people with cancer sometimes experience as a side
effect of chemotherapy and radiation (20  , 21  ).
A 2-week study in 60 adults with head and neck cancer revealed that a
topical licorice film was just as effective as the standard treatment for oral
mucositis (20  ).
May ease upper respiratory conditions
Due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, both licorice root

extract and tea may aid upper respiratory conditions.
In particular, animal studies conclude that glycyrrhizin extract from licorice

root helps relieve asthma, especially when added to modern asthma
treatments (22  , 23  , 24  ).
While limited human research shows similar results, more rigorous, long-
term studies are needed (25  ).
Additionally, limited test-tube and human studies suggest that licorice root
tea and extract may protect against strep throat and prevent sore throat
after surgery (26  , 27).
Still, further research is needed.
May protect against cavities
Licorice root may help protect against bacteria that can lead to cavities.
A 3-week study gave 66 preschool-aged kids sugar-free lollipops 

containing 15 mg of licorice root twice per day during the school week.
Consuming the lollipops significantly reduced the number of
Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which are the main cause of cavities

(28  ).
Test-tube studies also show licorice root extract to be effective at

protecting against bacteria commonly linked to cavities and tooth decay
(29  , 30  ).
However, more research is needed on the optimal dose and form of

licorice root.
Other potential benefits
Licorice root extract is tied to several other potential benefits. It may:
Aid diabetes. In a 60-day study in rats, daily intake of licorice root

extract resulted in significant improvements in blood sugar levels
and kidney health. This effect has not been confirmed in humans
(31  ).
Reduce menopause symptoms. Licorice root extract has been

proposed as a treatment for hot flashes during menopause.
However, the evidence on its effectiveness for this purpose is
limited (32  , 33  ).
Boost weight loss. Some studies indicate that licorice root extract
lowers body mass index (BMI) and supports weight loss. Yet, other
studies have not found any effects on weight (34  , 35  ).
Help treat hepatitis C. One test-tube study noted that adding

glycyrrhizin to a standard hepatitis C treatment significantly reduced
the virus’s spread. While promising, these results have not been
confirmed in humans (36  , 37  ).
SUMMARY
Licorice root may have potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and

antimicrobial effects. Early research suggests that, as a result, it
may ease upper respiratory infections, treat ulcers, and aid
digestion, among other benefits.

Potential side effects and precautions

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed licorice root to be
generally recognized as safe for use in foods (2  ).
However, the FDA does not currently evaluate or verify supplements for
purity, effectiveness, or accuracy of ingredient labeling.
Additionally, the short-term use of licorice root supplements and teas is

widely considered safe. However, large doses may produce adverse
effects, and individuals with certain health conditions may wish to avoid it.
Licorice root overdose
Both chronic use and large doses of licorice root products may lead to
glycyrrhizin accumulation in your body.
Elevated levels of glycyrrhizin have been shown to cause an abnormal

increase in the stress hormone cortisol, which may cause imbalances in
your fluid and electrolyte levels (38  ).
As a result, chronic and large doses of licorice root products may trigger
several dangerous symptoms, including (2  , 38  , 39  ):
low potassium levels
high blood pressure
muscle weakness
abnormal heart rhythms 
While rare, licorice poisoning can occur. It may result in kidney failure,
congestive heart failure, or excess fluid accumulation in the lungs
(pulmonary edema) (2  ).
Thus, individuals with high blood pressure, congestive heart failure,

kidney disease, or low potassium levels are encouraged to avoid
glycyrrhizin-containing licorice products altogether.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Consuming lots of licorice — and glycyrrhizin in particular — during

pregnancy may negatively affect your baby’s brain development.
In one study, children born to mothers who ate large amounts of

glycyrrhizin-containing licorice products during pregnancy were more
likely to have brain impairments later in life (40).
Therefore, pregnant women should avoid licorice supplements and limit

their intake of licorice in foods and beverages.
Due to a lack of research, children and breastfeeding women should also

avoid licorice products.
Drug interactions
Licorice root has been shown to interact with several medications,

including (2  ):
blood pressure medications
blood thinners
cholesterol lowering medications, including statins
diuretics
estrogen-based contraceptives
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
People taking any of these medications should avoid licorice root

products unless their healthcare provider instructs otherwise.

SUMMARY
Chronic use and large doses of licorice root can cause severe
fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Children, pregnant and
breastfeeding women, and those with kidney disease, heart
disease, or high blood pressure should avoid licorice products.
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Dosage and forms of licorice root

As a supplement, licorice root extract comes in several forms, including
capsules, powders, tinctures, topical gels, and teas. The root itself can
also be purchased either fresh or dried.
There’s currently no standard dosage recommendation. However, the

World Health Organization (WHO) and European Scientific Committee of
Food (SCF) both recommend limiting glycyrrhizin intake to no more than
100 mg per day (41  ).
Notably, those who eat large amounts of licorice products may be getting
more than this amount.
Furthermore, as products don’t always indicate the amount of glycyrrhizin,

it can be difficult to identify a safe amount. As a result, it’s important to
discuss a safe and effective dose with your healthcare provider.
Another option is to look for deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) powders or

capsules.

These supplements are free of glycyrrhizin, which is responsible for most
of licorice’s side effects. Still, as this compound also contributes
numerous benefits, it’s unclear whether DGL products have the same
positive health effects.
SUMMARY
You can consume licorice root as a tea, tincture, powder, or

supplement. It can also be applied topically as a gel. While
there’s no standard dosage for licorice root, you should limit your
total glycyrrhizin intake no more than 100 grams per day.
Shop for licorice root products online

licorice candy
licorice tea
licorice extract and tincture
licorice capsules
licorice powder
DGL licorice supplements
The bottom line


Licorice root has been used for thousands of years to help treat a variety
of ailments, including respiratory conditions and digestive distress.
Its plant compounds demonstrate potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory,

and antimicrobial effects. Though it may relieve acid reflux, eczema,
peptic ulcers, and other health issues, more comprehensive human
studies are needed.
Still, licorice has adverse effects if it’s overconsumed or eaten frequently.

Consult your healthcare provider before trying licorice root supplements
or teas.
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6/14/2020 Licorice Root: Benefits, Uses, Precautions, and Dosage

NUTRITION u Evidence Based

What Are Licorice Root's Benefits and

Uses Benefits Side effects Dosage & forms Bottom line

Licorice root, which is considered one of the world’s oldest herbal

How is licorice root used?

What’s more, licorice is used to flavor some foods and beverages (5  ).

While it contains hundreds of plant compounds, licorice root’s primary

Glycyrrhizin is responsible for the root’s sweet taste, as well as its

However, glycyrrhizin is also linked to many of the adverse effects of

Licorice root is used both as a flavoring agent and medicinal

May aid skin conditions

Licorice root contains over 300 compounds, some of which demonstrate

In particular, animal and test-tube studies link glycyrrhizin to anti-

As a result, licorice root extract is used to treat a variety of skin conditions,

In a 2-week study in 60 adults, applying a topical gel containing licorice

May reduce acid reflux and indigestion

Licorice root extract is often used to relieve symptoms of indigestion,

In a 30-day study in 50 adults with indigestion, taking a 75-mg licorice

Licorice root extract may also alleviate symptoms of gastroesophageal

In an 8-week study in 58 adults with GERD, a low dose of glycyrrhetinic

May help treat peptic ulcers

While more research is needed in humans, a 2-week study in 120 adults

May have anticancer properties

protective effects against certain types of cancer (16  ).

In particular, licorice extract and its compounds have been linked to

As research is limited to test tubes and animals, its effects on human

May ease upper respiratory conditions

Due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, both licorice root

In particular, animal studies conclude that glycyrrhizin extract from licorice

Still, further research is needed.

May protect against cavities

A 3-week study gave 66 preschool-aged kids sugar-free lollipops 

Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which are the main cause of cavities

Test-tube studies also show licorice root extract to be effective at

However, more research is needed on the optimal dose and form of

Other potential benefits

Licorice root extract is tied to several other potential benefits. It may:

Aid diabetes. In a 60-day study in rats, daily intake of licorice root

Reduce menopause symptoms. Licorice root extract has been

Help treat hepatitis C. One test-tube study noted that adding

Licorice root may have potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and

Potential side effects and precautions

Additionally, the short-term use of licorice root supplements and teas is

Licorice root overdose

Elevated levels of glycyrrhizin have been shown to cause an abnormal

low potassium levels

high blood pressure

abnormal heart rhythms 

Thus, individuals with high blood pressure, congestive heart failure,

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Consuming lots of licorice — and glycyrrhizin in particular — during

In one study, children born to mothers who ate large amounts of

Therefore, pregnant women should avoid licorice supplements and limit

Due to a lack of research, children and breastfeeding women should also

Licorice root has been shown to interact with several medications,

blood pressure medications

cholesterol lowering medications, including statins

nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

People taking any of these medications should avoid licorice root

Get Answers from a Doctor in Minutes, Anytime

ASK A DOCTOR NOW

Dosage and forms of licorice root