Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) contains glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin that inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymes. This mechanism produces anti-inflammatory effects by enhancing local cortisol activity and modulating immune responses.
CategoryHerbs (Global Traditional)
GroupTraditional Chinese Medicine
Evidence LevelStrong
Primary Keywordlicorice root benefits
Synergy Pairings3
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) — botanical close-up
Health Benefits
Origin & History
Natural habitat
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) is a perennial herb native to China and Mongolia, sourced from the roots and rhizomes of plants in the Fabaceae family. The extract is typically obtained through solvent extraction using water, methanol, or ethanol from dried roots, yielding triterpene saponins, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals, with glycyrrhizin as the primary compound that is 30-50 times sweeter than sucrose.
“Glycyrrhiza uralensis has been used for millennia in Traditional Chinese Medicine as one of the 50 fundamental herbs, with historical records dating back over 2,000 years. Known as Gan Cao in TCM, it has traditionally been used as a harmonizing herb for treating cough, sore throat, gastric ulcers, and inflammation.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
The research dossier reveals a significant gap in clinical evidence: no human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses for G. uralensis were identified in the search results. While reviews mention broad pharmacological effects from in vitro and animal studies, specific PMIDs, study designs, sample sizes, or clinical outcomes are absent from the available data.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional preparation
No clinically studied dosage ranges for G. uralensis extracts, powders, or standardized forms are available in the research literature. Standardization levels (such as % glycyrrhizin content) have not been established through clinical trials. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Nutritional Profile
{"macronutrients": {"carbohydrates": "Approximately 50-60% of dry weight", "protein": "Low, approximately 5-10% of dry weight", "fiber": "Moderate, approximately 10-15% of dry weight"}, "micronutrients": {"vitamins": {"Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)": "Trace amounts", "Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)": "Trace amounts"}, "minerals": {"Calcium": "Approximately 100-150 mg per 100g", "Potassium": "Approximately 300-400 mg per 100g", "Iron": "Approximately 5-10 mg per 100g"}}, "bioactive_compounds": {"Glycyrrhizin": "1-9% of dry weight", "Flavonoids": "Includes liquiritin and isoliquiritin, concentrations vary", "Saponins": "Present in significant amounts"}, "bioavailability_notes": "Glycyrrhizin is known for its low bioavailability when consumed orally, but it can be metabolized by gut bacteria into more bioavailable forms. The bioavailability of minerals like calcium and iron may be affected by the presence of other compounds in licorice."}
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Glycyrrhizin inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, preventing cortisol breakdown and enhancing local anti-inflammatory activity. Additional compounds like liquiritigenin and isoliquiritigenin modulate NF-κB signaling pathways, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production. The root's antimicrobial effects stem from glycyrrhetinic acid disrupting bacterial cell membrane integrity.
Clinical Evidence
Most evidence comes from in vitro and animal studies demonstrating anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective effects. A few small human trials (20-40 participants) suggest benefits for peptic ulcers and upper respiratory symptoms, but larger randomized controlled trials are lacking. Traditional Chinese Medicine has documented therapeutic use for over 2,000 years, primarily for respiratory and digestive conditions. Current clinical evidence remains preliminary and requires further validation through rigorous human studies.
Safety & Interactions
Excessive consumption (>100g daily of licorice candy) can cause pseudoaldosteronism, leading to hypertension, hypokalemia, and fluid retention. Glycyrrhizin may potentiate corticosteroid medications and interact with digoxin, warfarin, and diuretics. Pregnant women should avoid licorice supplements due to potential effects on fetal development and preterm labor risk. Individuals with cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, or hormone-sensitive conditions should consult healthcare providers before use.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Also Known As
Glycyrrhiza uralensisChinese LicoriceGan CaoUral LicoriceTCM LicoriceSweet RootGlycyrrhizae Radix
Frequently Asked Questions
How much licorice root extract should I take daily?
Typical dosages range from 200-800mg of standardized extract (containing 12-20% glycyrrhizin) daily. Start with lower doses and avoid exceeding 100mg glycyrrhizin daily to prevent mineralocorticoid side effects.
Can licorice root raise blood pressure?
Yes, glycyrrhizin can cause sodium retention and potassium loss, leading to hypertension. This typically occurs with doses exceeding 100mg glycyrrhizin daily or prolonged use beyond 4-6 weeks.
What's the difference between licorice root and DGL?
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) has glycyrrhizin removed to eliminate blood pressure effects while retaining gastroprotective compounds. DGL is safer for long-term use but may have reduced anti-inflammatory activity.
Does licorice root help with stomach ulcers?
Preliminary studies suggest licorice compounds may protect gastric mucosa and inhibit H. pylori bacteria. However, clinical evidence is limited to small trials, and more research is needed to confirm efficacy.
Can I take licorice root with blood pressure medications?
Licorice may interact with ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and other cardiovascular drugs by affecting sodium-potassium balance. Consult your doctor before combining licorice supplements with blood pressure medications.
Is licorice root safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Licorice root is generally not recommended during pregnancy, as some studies suggest high consumption may increase miscarriage risk, though evidence remains limited. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing, as licorice compounds pass into breast milk and systemic absorption occurs. Safety data specific to Glycyrrhiza uralensis in these populations is insufficient for definitive recommendations.
Is licorice root safe for children and elderly individuals?
Licorice root safety in children is not well-established, and pediatric dosing guidelines are largely absent from clinical literature. Elderly individuals should use caution, particularly those with existing hypertension, kidney disease, or taking multiple medications, as age-related changes in metabolism may increase sensitivity to licorice's effects. Medical supervision is recommended for both populations before supplementation.
What is the difference between Glycyrrhiza uralensis and other licorice species used in supplements?
Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Ural licorice) is native to Central Asia and commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, while Glycyrrhiza glabra is the primary species used in Western herbalism and supplements. The species may differ in glycyrrhizin concentration, bioactive compound profiles, and traditional applications, though direct comparative studies are limited. Sourcing and extraction methods further influence potency, making species identification important for consistency and intended therapeutic effects.
Explore the Full Encyclopedia
7,400+ ingredients researched, verified, and formulated for optimal synergy.
Browse IngredientsThese statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
hermetica-encyclopedia-canary-zzqv9k4w licorice curated by Hermetica Superfoods at ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com and licensed CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 (non-commercial share-alike, attribution required)
