Licorice Root

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Specifically for Constipation

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Why it works for Constipation:

Stimulates gut motility and mucus secretion. Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin and several flavonoids that appear to increase intestinal secretion and motility in preclinical studies, which would help soften stool and increase bowel movements. ScienceDirect

Anti-inflammatory / mucosal repair effects. Licorice compounds have anti-inflammatory and mucoprotective effects on the gut lining that can improve overall bowel function in certain models of dysfunctional motility. These actions may indirectly improve constipation in some cases. ScienceDirect Europe PMC

Most evidence is preclinical or indirect. There are recent animal studies showing licorice water extracts improved constipation in mice (repaired mucosa, increased transit), but robust randomized controlled trials in humans specifically for constipation are lacking. That means plausibility exists, but clinical proof in people is limited. ScienceDirect Europe PMC

How to use for Constipation:

Forms people use:

Licorice root tea (decoction or infusion) — simmer root or use packaged tea. Effects are typically mild and onset is slower than stimulant laxatives. WebMD Verywell Health
Aqueous extracts / tinctures — concentrated extracts were used in animal studies that showed improved transit; these are stronger than tea and more likely to produce both effect and side effects. ScienceDirect
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) — often recommended for GI use when one wants the mucosal/anti-inflammatory benefits but wants to avoid glycyrrhizin-related side effects. DGL has much less glycyrrhizin, so it’s considered safer for longer use — but removing glycyrrhizin may also reduce any laxative effect that depends on that compound. WebMD EatingWell

Typical practical steps people follow (reported in herb summaries):

Start with a mild approach: try licorice tea (one cup daily) rather than concentrated extract. Monitor blood pressure and symptoms. WebMD
If using extracts/tinctures, follow the product label: commercial extracts vary widely — use manufacturer dose and do not exceed recommended duration. MedicineNet
Prefer short courses: because of glycyrrhizin risks, avoid continuous high-dose use. Many safety sources warn against prolonged consumption of glycyrrhizin-containing licorice; some public health guidance suggests limiting intake to short periods. EatingWell Medsafe

Links with practical dosing/consumer guidance: WebMD and MedicineNet give consumer dosing precautions and describe common product forms (tea, extract, DGL). WebMD MedicineNet

Scientific Evidence for Constipation:

Preclinical (animal) evidence:

A recent mice study found licorice water extract improved constipation induced by diphenoxylate — improved stool frequency and repaired colonic mucosa. (animal model; promising but not human). ScienceDirect

Reviews and pharmacology papers:

Reviews of licorice/glycyrrhizin summarize its gastrointestinal effects, metabolism, and a range of bioactivities (anti-inflammatory, mucosal protection, modulation of motility). These reviews note clinical data are stronger for some GI uses (e.g., dyspepsia, peptic ulcer adjuncts) than for constipation specifically, and they highlight safety concerns. ScienceDirect Europe PMC

Human clinical trials:

There are few (if any) robust RCTs demonstrating licorice root alone as an effective treatment for chronic constipation in humans. Most human trials focus on other GI conditions (e.g., dyspepsia, H. pylori adjunct, liver enzyme improvement) rather than primary constipation. Systematic reviews emphasize the need for human trials specifically for constipation. Europe PMC College of Medicine

Conclusion on evidence: animal+mechanistic data are supportive and suggest a possible role, but we do not have high-quality human RCT evidence proving licorice as an effective constipation treatment. Relying on it as a primary therapy without physician supervision is not recommended. ScienceDirect Europe PMC

Specific Warnings for Constipation:

Licorice root (especially forms containing glycyrrhizin) has well-documented and potentially serious adverse effects:

Hypertension and fluid retention. Glycyrrhizin has mineralocorticoid-like effects (acts like aldosterone): sodium retention, water retention → raised blood pressure. Even moderate amounts over days–weeks can cause this. The FDA and nutrition/health sources warn older adults in particular. EatingWell WebMD
Hypokalemia (low potassium), muscle weakness, arrhythmias. Loss of potassium can lead to muscle cramps, weakness, and dangerous heart rhythm disturbances; there are case reports of life-threatening arrhythmia from chronic licorice intake. MedicineNet EatingWell
Drug interactions. Licorice can interact with:
Diuretics (additive potassium loss risk),
Antihypertensives (may blunt efficacy or worsen BP),
Warfarin and other anticoagulants (potential interactions),
Corticosteroids and drugs that affect potassium (increased risk of hypokalemia). Always check with a pharmacist/doctor. MedicineNet Medsafe
Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Many sources advise avoiding glycyrrhizin-containing licorice in pregnancy because of possible risks (some studies link high intake to preterm labor or developmental effects); safer to avoid unless supervised. WebMD Verywell Health
Who should avoid it: people with hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, hypokalemia, those on drugs that lower potassium or raise blood pressure, pregnant people — avoid or use only under physician direction. Medsafe MedicineNet

Regulatory / public health notes: national safety advisories (e.g., FDA discussions reported in health media) and medicines agencies warn about overuse and suggest limiting intake of black licorice (glycyrrhizin) — for example, older adults eating >2 oz/day for >2 weeks can be at risk of arrhythmias. EatingWell Medsafe

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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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