Licorice Root: Benefits, Uses, Precautions, and Dosage

1. May reduce acid reflux and indigestion

Licorice root has shown promising results in reducing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), including heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion. However, studies conducted so far have been fairly small in scale, and larger human studies are needed to confirm the link to the benefits of using licorice to treat GERD.

2. May help treat peptic ulcers

Studies have shown that licorice root extract may be helpful in treating peptic ulcers, which are primarily caused by Helicobacter pylori infection. Although additional research is needed, one study reported that consuming licorice extract alongside standard treatment may significantly reduce the presence of H. pylori.

3. May help treat skin conditions

Licorice root has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that could be used to treat skin conditions such as acne and eczema. However, there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of using licorice gels to treat acne.

4. May have anticancer properties

Since licorice root contains several compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it may be able to protect you against certain types of cancer by reducing or preventing cell growth. However, much of the research has been limited to animal studies, and the effect on human cancers is unknown.

5. May relieve chronic bronchitis

Bronchitis is linked to chronic inflammation of the airways, leading to excessive coughing with mucus or sputum production. Some evidence suggests that licorice root may delay the progression of chronic bronchitis due to the antioxidant effect on the lungs. Licorice root may also help slow the progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease along with standard treatment.

6. May protect against dental cavities

Due to its antimicrobial effects, licorice root may help protect you against the bacteria that can cause cavities. In one study conducted on 66 schoolchildren, consuming sugar-free lollipops containing 15 mg of licorice root significantly reduced the number of bacteria that cause cavities, Streptococcus mutans.

7. May help regulate blood sugar levels

A study conducted on rats reported that consuming licorice root extract may significantly improve blood sugar levels and kidney health. However, human studies need to be conducted to confirm whether this health benefit is valid.

8. May reduce menopause symptoms

Experts have proposed the use of licorice root to alleviate hot flashes caused by menopause. However, studies are limited.

9. May boost weight loss

Although some studies have suggested that licorice root extract may have a positive effect on weight loss, there isn’t sufficient evidence to support this claim.

10. May help treat hepatitis C

One study found that adding licorice root to standard treatment of hepatitis C could significantly hamper the transmission of the virus. However, the results have not been confirmed in human studies. 

Because licorice root products are herbal supplements, they generally do not come under the scrutiny of the FDA. Long-term use of glycyrrhizin can lead to severe side effects including:

• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• High blood pressure
• Muscle weakness
• Low potassium levels

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Consumption of large amounts of licorice during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor. Studies have shown that children born to pregnant women taking 250 mg of licorice root have a higher likelihood of developing brain impairments later in life. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid licorice supplements or limit their intake. 

Medical conditions

People with the following conditions should avoid licorice supplements:

• Heart failure
• Hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids
• High blood pressure
• Hypertonia (muscle condition caused by nerve problems)
• Kidney disease
• Erectile dysfunction
• Surgery (people undergoing surgery should stop taking licorice at least 2 weeks before the operation)

Drug interactions

People taking the following medications should avoid using licorice supplements:

• Digoxin
• Diuretics
• Estrogen-based contraceptives
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Cholesterol-lowering medications including statins
• Blood thinners
• Blood pressure medications

Licorice root supplements are available in the form of:

• Candies
• Lozenges
• Teas
• Creams
• Gels
• Patches
• Sprays
• Mouthwashes

Licorice is generally safe for most people when taken in doses of up to 100 mg per day for up to 4 months. 

However, as with any supplement, it is best to talk to your doctor about the safety and potential benefits vs. risks of using licorice root extract.