Licorice Root Extract

Licorice root extract contains glycyrrhizin, which inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme to regulate cortisol levels and support adrenal function. The extract's polysaccharides and flavonoids provide anti-inflammatory effects for digestive health and immune support.

Origin

Native to Southern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Licorice Root Extract is sourced from plants native to diverse terrains, from Asian highlands to South American valleys. Root preparations have been central to traditional medicine systems including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and indigenous healing practices for thousands of years.

Potential benefits

Supports adrenal and stress resilience by regulating cortisol levels with glycyrrhizin, aiding adrenal recovery and reducing fatigue; Promotes digestive health by soothing the gut lining and reducing acid reflux, ulcers, and inflammation with demulcent polysaccharides; Strengthens immune function through flavonoids and saponins with antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal activity; Enhances respiratory health by acting as an expectorant to clear mucus and soothe the throat; Balances hormonal health by supporting estrogen metabolism and aiding in PMS, menopause, and testosterone regulation

How it works

Glycyrrhizin inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, preventing cortisol breakdown and enhancing mineralocorticoid activity. The compound also blocks nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways, reducing inflammatory cytokine production. Demulcent polysaccharides form protective mucilage layers on gastric mucosa, while liquiritin and isoliquiritin modulate prostaglandin synthesis.

What the research says

A 2019 randomized controlled trial (n=120) showed 600mg daily reduced perceived stress scores by 23% over 8 weeks. Multiple small studies (n=20-60) demonstrate gastric ulcer healing rates of 60-80% with 760mg deglycyrrhizinated licorice extract daily. Adrenal fatigue studies show modest cortisol regulation improvements, though larger trials are needed. Evidence is strongest for digestive applications, moderate for stress support.

Safety and interactions

Glycyrrhizin can cause pseudoaldosteronism with prolonged use, leading to hypertension, hypokalemia, and fluid retention above 100mg daily. Contraindicated with heart conditions, kidney disease, and pregnancy due to increased miscarriage risk. Interacts with warfarin, digoxin, and blood pressure medications by affecting potassium levels. Deglycyrrhizinated forms reduce but don't eliminate these risks.

Suggested use

250–500mg standardized extract daily; prolonged high doses should be avoided due to potential cortisol retention For Licorice Root Extract, recommended preparation involves thorough cleaning and appropriate processing for the intended use. Consumption can range from fresh or minimally processed forms to dried, powdered, or extracted preparations. As with all botanicals, start with modest servings and adjust based on individual response. Shelf life is optimized when stored in airtight containers in cool, dark conditions.

Frequently asked questions

How much glycyrrhizin is safe daily?

The WHO recommends limiting glycyrrhizin intake to 100mg daily for short-term use. Most standardized licorice root extracts contain 12-25% glycyrrhizin, making 400-800mg extract the upper safe limit for 4-6 weeks maximum.

What's the difference between regular and deglycyrrhizinated licorice?

Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) removes 97% of glycyrrhizin to prevent blood pressure and potassium issues while retaining anti-inflammatory compounds. DGL is safer for long-term digestive use but lacks the cortisol-regulating effects of whole licorice extract.

Can licorice root extract raise blood pressure?

Yes, glycyrrhizin can significantly raise blood pressure by mimicking aldosterone effects, causing sodium retention and potassium loss. Studies show blood pressure increases of 10-15 mmHg with doses above 100mg glycyrrhizin daily for 2+ weeks.

How long does licorice root extract take to work for digestion?

For acute digestive relief, licorice extract can soothe gastric irritation within 30-60 minutes due to rapid mucilage formation. For ulcer healing or chronic digestive issues, clinical studies show significant improvements typically occur after 4-8 weeks of consistent use.

Does licorice root extract help with adrenal fatigue?

Licorice extract may support adrenal function by slowing cortisol breakdown, potentially helping with stress resilience and energy. However, 'adrenal fatigue' isn't medically recognized, and evidence for licorice's adrenal benefits comes mainly from small preliminary studies rather than large clinical trials.

Is licorice root extract safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Licorice root extract is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to glycyrrhizin's potential effects on hormone levels and fetal development, with some studies linking high intake to premature birth. Breastfeeding mothers should also avoid licorice root extract as glycyrrhizin passes into breast milk and may affect nursing infants. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) may be a safer alternative if digestive support is needed during these periods, though consultation with a healthcare provider is essential.

Does licorice root extract interact with blood pressure medications or corticosteroids?

Licorice root extract can interact with antihypertensive medications and corticosteroids due to glycyrrhizin's mineralocorticoid activity, potentially reducing medication effectiveness or increasing side effects like sodium retention. If taking blood pressure medications, corticosteroids, or diuretics, inform your healthcare provider before using licorice root extract. DGL forms eliminate most of these interactions while retaining digestive and immune benefits.

What is the most effective form of licorice root extract—powder, extract, or standardized supplement?

Standardized extracts containing 10-20% glycyrrhizin provide consistent potency and faster bioavailability compared to powders or whole root decoctions, making them more reliable for therapeutic outcomes. Liquid extracts (tinctures) offer intermediate absorption speed and allow dose flexibility, while powders require higher amounts to achieve equivalent effects due to lower concentration. For maximum efficacy with minimal glycyrrhizin exposure, standardized extracts are generally preferred, though individual response varies based on digestive health and existing conditions.

References

This article is educational and is not medical advice. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a healthcare professional before use.