Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Evidence-based guide to Licorice Root: benefits, dosage, safety and interactions.

Evidence

Moderate: Traditional adjuvant use across Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine; glycyrrhizin's anti-inflammatory and adrenal-supporting action is pharmacologically documented but time-limited by safety data.

Traditional use and mechanism

Short-term support during menopausal transition; anti-inflammatory; digestive; adrenal support. Used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda as a harmonising herb in formulas — traditionally used in small amounts, not as a solo herb.

Safety

SERIOUS risk at high doses or prolonged use: pseudohyperaldosteronism — sodium and water retention, potassium loss, hypertension, oedema, cardiac effects. Cases documented in patients consuming large amounts of licorice confectionery daily. Safety guidelines limit continuous use to 4–6 weeks maximum at >100 mg glycyrrhizin/day.