Licorice Root

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Specifically for Adrenal Insufficiency

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Why it works for Adrenal Insufficiency:

The active licorice constituents (glycyrrhizin → glycyrrhetinic acid) inhibit the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2). That enzyme normally inactivates cortisol to cortisone in mineralocorticoid target tissues (e.g., kidney). When it’s inhibited, more active cortisol persists and acts like a mineralocorticoid, promoting sodium retention and potassium excretion—functionally mimicking some aldosterone effects. That’s why licorice can raise blood pressure and can, in theory, “support” salt-wasting states. The Lancet

Classic human studies showed licorice causes sodium retention and changes in cortisol metabolism consistent with 11β-HSD2 inhibition. ScienceDirect
Reviews explain the same mechanism and its consequences (so-called apparent mineralocorticoid excess). Frontiers

How to use for Adrenal Insufficiency:

What the evidence suggests:

Adjunct to cortisone/hydrocortisone: A small crossover study in 17 Addison’s patients found that 3 days of co-administration of licorice increased cortisol availability after oral cortisone acetate. This is proof-of-mechanism, not a replacement therapy. (The trial did not establish long-term efficacy or safety.) Europe PMC
Form matters: To affect cortisol/aldosterone pathways, products must contain glycyrrhizin. “DGL” (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) won’t have this effect. Monographs and pharmacology references note the glycyrrhizin content and the mechanism. Drugs.com

If a specialist does elect to try it adjunctively, typical clinician safeguards include:

Use standardized products that state glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acid) content per dose so intake can be quantified. (Glycyrrhizin content drives both effect and risk.) Drugs.com
Keep total daily glycyrrhizin modest (many regulators cite ~≤100 mg/day for regular use to avoid adverse effects; note this is a general safety ceiling, not a therapeutic target). EFSA Journal
Limit duration (the clinical trial showing an effect used only 3 days; longer courses raise risk without proven benefit). Europe PMC
Monitor closely: check blood pressure, serum potassium, renin/aldosterone (if indicated); watch for edema, headaches, muscle weakness, or palpitations. Reviews and monographs describe the predictable adverse pattern (hypertension, hypokalemia, suppressed renin/aldosterone). MDPI
Never self-adjust steroid prescriptions based on licorice; any hydrocortisone/fludrocortisone changes must be made by your endocrinologist per established guidelines. Oxford Academic

Scientific Evidence for Adrenal Insufficiency:

Mechanistic & pharmacodynamic evidence (strong):

Lancet human study: Licorice intake caused sodium retention and changes in cortisol/cortisone metabolism indicating 11β-HSD2 inhibition. ScienceDirect
Endocrinology research: Licorice derivatives inhibit 11β-HSD, explaining cortisol-mediated mineralocorticoid effects. Oxford Academic
Reviews: Modern reviews summarize the pathway leading to “apparent mineralocorticoid excess.” Frontiers

Clinical data in Addison’s (limited):

Small crossover trial (n=17): 3 days of licorice or grapefruit juice increased cortisol availability after cortisone acetate dosing in Addison’s disease. Useful mechanistic support; not a replacement for standard therapy; no long-term outcomes. Europe PMC
Historical case reports/series: Older literature described adjunct use or self-medication, but these predate modern steroid protocols and do not meet current evidence standards. ScienceDirect

Guidelines/consensus (important):

Major guidelines (Endocrine Society; NICE) describe steroid replacement and crisis prevention and do not include licorice as therapy for adrenal insufficiency. Oxford Academic

Specific Warnings for Adrenal Insufficiency:

Predictable adverse effect profile (pseudoaldosteronism):

Hypertension, hypokalemia, edema with suppressed renin and aldosterone due to cortisol acting on mineralocorticoid receptors when 11β-HSD2 is blocked. Reviews and clinical series document this repeatedly. Severe cases can cause arrhythmias, paralysis, and even crises. MDPI

Medication interactions & conflicts:

Mineralocorticoid therapy (fludrocortisone): Licorice can amplify mineralocorticoid effects, increasing risk of hypertension and hypokalemia. Case reports describe severe hypokalemic paralysis in Addison’s patients with additional licorice exposure. ScienceDirect
Diuretics (especially loop/thiazide), digoxin, antihypertensives, and spironolactone/eplerenone: Risk of potassium disturbances or antagonistic effects; caution is advised in pharmacology references and monographs. Drugs.com
Corticosteroids: Licorice can alter steroid pharmacokinetics, so doses may need medical adjustment—never adjust yourself. Europe PMC

Populations to avoid licorice:

Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Associations with adverse outcomes; generally avoid. Drugs.com
Hypertension, cardiovascular, kidney or liver disease, or baseline low potassium: Higher risk of complications. Drugs.com

Dose-related risk and “how much is too much”:

Regulators have not set an ADI, but European and other safety reviews commonly reference ~100 mg/day glycyrrhizin as an upper level of regular intake for most adults to minimize risk (again, this is a safety limit, not a therapeutic target). EFSA Journal
Clinical/observational data show even modest daily amounts can raise blood pressure in susceptible people; effects can appear within 1–2 weeks. Drugs.com

Back to Adrenal Insufficiency

General Information (All Ailments)

Note: You are viewing ailment-specific information above. This section shows the general remedy information for all conditions.

What It Is

Licorice root comes from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, native to parts of Europe and Asia. It has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and ancient Greek and Egyptian healing. The root contains several bioactive compounds, most notably glycyrrhizin, which gives it both its characteristic sweet flavor and many of its pharmacological properties.

Licorice root can be consumed in various forms—such as teas, extracts, capsules, or tinctures—and is often found in herbal blends designed for digestive health, respiratory support, or adrenal balance.

How It Works

The key active compound, glycyrrhizin, has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant effects. It influences several physiological systems in the body:

Endocrine and Adrenal Support: Glycyrrhizin inhibits the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which breaks down cortisol. By slowing cortisol metabolism, licorice root can enhance and prolong the effects of this hormone, potentially helping with adrenal fatigue or chronic stress.
Anti-inflammatory and Immune Effects: The compound modulates immune responses and suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines. It can support conditions involving inflammation of the respiratory or digestive tract, such as sore throats, coughs, or gastritis.
Antiviral and Antimicrobial Properties: Research has shown licorice extract may inhibit the replication of certain viruses, including hepatitis C and herpes simplex virus. Its saponins and flavonoids contribute to this protective effect.
Digestive Protection: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a modified form where glycyrrhizin has been removed to reduce side effects. DGL supports mucous membrane healing, making it popular for soothing stomach ulcers, heartburn, or gastritis.

Why It’s Important

Licorice root holds importance as both a therapeutic and preventive botanical:

Adaptogenic-Like Benefits: It helps the body adapt to stress by supporting cortisol levels, improving energy, and reducing fatigue.
Respiratory Health: Traditionally used as an expectorant and demulcent, it soothes sore throats, eases coughs, and reduces irritation in the bronchial passages.
Digestive Wellness: It aids in the protection and repair of gastrointestinal tissues, which can benefit those with acid reflux or ulcers.
Liver and Skin Health: Licorice root’s antioxidant and detoxifying properties may support liver function and help manage skin conditions like eczema or acne.

Its broad range of uses makes it a cornerstone herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine.

Considerations

Despite its benefits, licorice root must be used carefully due to its potency:

Glycyrrhizin-Related Side Effects: Excessive intake of glycyrrhizin can lead to a condition called pseudoaldosteronism, characterized by sodium retention, potassium loss, high blood pressure, and swelling (edema).
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) as a Safer Option: DGL provides many of the digestive benefits without affecting mineral balance or blood pressure, making it preferable for long-term use.
Interactions and Contraindications: Licorice root can interact with diuretics, corticosteroids, antihypertensive drugs, and certain heart medications. It is not recommended for individuals with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart conditions unless supervised by a healthcare provider.
Duration of Use: Continuous use of glycyrrhizin-containing licorice for more than a few weeks is generally discouraged without medical guidance.
Pregnancy and Hormonal Effects: Licorice may affect hormone levels and is generally advised against during pregnancy due to potential risks to fetal development.

Helps with these conditions

Licorice Root is most effective for general wellness support with emerging research . The effectiveness varies by condition based on clinical evidence and user experiences.

Acid Reflux (GERD) 0% effective

Constipation 0% effective

Stomach Ulcers 0% effective

Asthma 0% effective

Eczema 0% effective

Tooth Decay 0% effective

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Detailed Information by Condition

Acid Reflux (GERD)

0% effective

Mucosal-protective effect. Licorice contains flavonoids and other compounds that appear to stimulate mucus production and strengthen the protective mu...

0 votes Updated 1 month ago 8 studies cited

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