Licorice Root

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.