Takeaways
- Glycyrrhizin in licorice can cause serious health issues
- Overconsumption may lead to electrolyte imbalances and high blood pressure
- Safe consumption limits vary, but moderation is essential
- Some groups face higher risks from licorice toxicity
- Recognizing early warning signs helps prevent complications
- Alternatives like DGL offer safer options for licorice benefits
Understanding Licorice Root
Licorice root, a plant with a sweet taste, has been used in various cultures for centuries.[1] It grows in parts of Europe and Asia. People have valued it for its flavor and its potential health benefits throughout history.
The plant, known scientifically as Glycyrrhiza glabra, thrives in soil that drains well.[2] It can reach about 7 feet tall, with compound leaves and purple flowers.[3] The root, which is used most often, can grow deep into the ground.
Traditionally, licorice root was used in both medicines and sweets. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Chinese used it to help with stomach problems.[4] Today, licorice provides flavor to candies, teas, and even some alcoholic drinks.
The Sweet Culprit: Glycyrrhizin
Glycyrrhizin is the main compound in licorice root. This is what gives licorice its distinct sweetness, being about 50 times sweeter than sugar.[5] But glycyrrhizin affects the body in more ways than just taste.
Glycyrrhizin can act similarly to cortisol, a stress hormone, within the body.[6] It can influence how the body processes other hormones and minerals.[7] This interaction is key to understanding both the benefits and potential dangers of licorice.
Product Type | Average Glycyrrhizin Content |
---|---|
Raw licorice root | 4-20% |
Licorice extract | 10-20% |
Licorice candy | 0.1-0.2% |
Licorice tea | 0.02-0.2% |
Glycyrrhizin interacts with body systems in a complex way. It can stop an enzyme that breaks down cortisol, leading to higher cortisol levels.[8] Glycyrrhizin also affects how the kidneys manage the balance of salt and water in the body.[9]
When Sweet Turns Sour: Toxic Effects
Electrolyte Imbalance
Licorice can disrupt the balance of important minerals in the body, particularly sodium and potassium.[10] Glycyrrhizin causes the body to hold onto sodium and lose potassium.
This imbalance can cause various symptoms, such as weakness or muscle cramps.[11] In severe cases, it can lead to irregular heartbeats or even paralysis.[12]
Common signs of electrolyte imbalances caused by licorice include:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Muscle weakness
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- High blood pressure
Blood Pressure Spikes
Eating too much licorice can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure.[13] This is because glycyrrhizin affects the body’s ability to manage fluids and minerals.
High blood pressure caused by licorice can be dangerous.[14] It puts extra pressure on the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke, particularly for people with existing heart issues.
Hormonal Havoc
Licorice can affect the body’s cortisol levels and stress response. Cortisol helps regulate the body’s metabolism and immune system. Too much cortisol can lead to weight gain and a weaker immune system.[15]
Licorice affects the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which controls blood pressure and fluid balance.[16] It can cause this system to become overactive. This often results in high blood pressure and fluid retention.
Who’s at Risk?
Some individuals are more prone to experiencing the negative effects of licorice. Knowing these risk factors helps people avoid potential problems.
Certain health conditions can make people more sensitive to licorice, including heart disease, kidney problems, and high blood pressure.[17] Pregnant women should also be careful when consuming licorice.[18]
Factors that can increase sensitivity to licorice’s negative effects include:
- Age (older adults are more susceptible)
- Existing heart or kidney conditions
- Hypertension
- Potassium deficiency
- Certain medications (like diuretics or digoxin)
Dosage Dilemma: How Much is Too Much?
Determining a safe amount of licorice to consume isn’t straightforward. Different forms of licorice contain different levels of glycyrrhizin. People also react to licorice in different ways.
Most experts agree that moderation is essential. The European Food Safety Authority suggests a daily limit of 100 mg of glycyrrhizin.[19] This is equal to about 60-70 grams of licorice candy.[20]
Form of Licorice | Safe Daily Limit |
---|---|
Licorice candy | 60-70 grams |
Licorice tea | 1-2 cups |
Licorice extract | 200-300 mg |
DGL supplements | 400-600 mg |
These guidelines are for regular, long-term consumption. Eating licorice occasionally is less likely to cause problems. However, individuals with certain health conditions should consult their doctor first.
Spotting the Signs: Symptoms of Licorice Toxicity
Recognizing the signs of licorice toxicity can help prevent serious health issues. The effects can vary from mild discomfort to severe health problems.[30]
Early signs of licorice toxicity often include headaches and tiredness.[21] Some people might also experience swelling in their hands or feet.[22] More severe symptoms can develop if the toxicity progresses.
Progression of licorice toxicity symptoms:
- Mild headache and tiredness
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Numbness or tingling in arms and legs
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Severe fatigue and weakness
- Paralysis (in extreme cases)
The Healing-Harming Paradox
Medicinal Benefits
Licorice root can have health benefits when used properly. Traditional medicine has long recognized its properties. Modern research continues to investigate its therapeutic potential.
Some conditions that might benefit from controlled licorice use include digestive and respiratory issues.[23] It may help soothe stomach ulcers and reduce inflammation.[24] Some studies suggest it could support adrenal function and hormonal balance.[25]
The Fine Line
The line between licorice’s helpfulness and harm is narrow. Small amounts may help, while larger amounts can be harmful. Therefore, medical supervision is crucial when using licorice for medicinal purposes.
Doctors can monitor for side effects and adjust dosages. They can also consider a patient’s overall health and other medications. This helps maximize potential benefits while minimizing risks.
Licorice in Disguise: Hidden Sources
Licorice isn’t only found in candy. Many other products contain licorice or its extracts. Being aware of these sources helps people avoid consuming too much.
It’s important to read labels carefully when monitoring licorice intake. Many herbal teas and supplements contain licorice root. Even some tobaccos and alcoholic drinks use licorice flavoring.
Common products that may contain licorice or its extracts:
- Herbal teas
- Cough syrups
- Some beers and liquors
- Tobacco products
- Certain supplements
- Some soft drinks
Alternatives and Safer Options
Alternatives exist for those who want licorice’s benefits without the risks. These options offer similar flavors or health effects but with less danger.
DGL, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice, is a safer option.[26] Manufacturers remove the glycyrrhizin, reducing the risk of toxicity.[27] DGL retains many of the beneficial compounds in licorice.
Natural alternatives that offer similar benefits to licorice:
- Fennel seed
- Anise
- Marshmallow root
- Slippery elm
Recovery and Treatment
If someone suspects licorice toxicity, they should stop consuming licorice immediately. It is essential to seek medical help, especially if symptoms are severe.
Treatment for licorice overdose focuses on restoring balance in the body.[28] Doctors might prescribe potassium supplements to correct electrolyte imbalances.[29] In severe cases, hospitalization might be needed.
It’s important to monitor symptoms after stopping licorice intake. Most effects of licorice toxicity resolve within a few weeks. However, some people might need ongoing care to manage lingering issues.
Prevention: Staying on the Safe Side
Preventing licorice toxicity begins with awareness and moderation. Understanding personal risk factors and safe consumption limits is essential.
For most people, enjoying licorice occasionally poses little risk. However, regular consumers should be mindful of their intake. This is especially true for individuals with health conditions or who are on certain medications.
Steps to minimize risk when consuming licorice:
- Know your risk factors
- Read product labels carefully
- Limit consumption to recommended amounts
- Choose DGL for regular use
- Consult a healthcare provider if unsure
Regulatory Stance and Warnings
Regulations on licorice in food and supplements differ around the world. In the United States, the FDA does not require specific warnings on licorice products, but they have issued information about potential health risks.[31]
Some countries have more strict regulations. The Netherlands, for instance, requires warning labels on licorice candy.[32] These labels inform consumers about possible effects on blood pressure.
International differences in licorice regulation show varying approaches to food safety. Some countries focus on education, while others use strict labeling laws. Consumers can benefit from being informed about these regulations.
FAQs: People Also Ask
How long does it take for licorice toxicity to develop?
Can licorice tea cause high blood pressure?
Is black licorice more dangerous than red licorice?
How much licorice is safe to eat daily?
Can licorice interact with medications?
Are there any benefits to eating licorice?
What’s the difference between licorice root and licorice candy?
Can pregnant women safely consume licorice?
Licorice root has been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes in many ancient civilizations including in Egypt, China, and Greece.
Source: “Pharmacological Effects of Glycyrrhiza spp. and Its Bioactive Constituents: Update and Review” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26462981/
Licorice requires well-drained soil to avoid root rot and to thrive.
Source: “Pharmacological Effects of Glycyrrhiza spp. and Its Bioactive Constituents: Update and Review” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26462981/
Glycyrrhiza glabra is a perennial herb that can reach a height of 7ft and has pinnately compound leaves. Its flowers are typically purple to pale blue in color.
Source: “Pharmacological Effects of Glycyrrhiza spp. and Its Bioactive Constituents: Update and Review” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26462981/
Historically, many ancient cultures have used licorice for its perceived medicinal properties. In those cultures, it was used to treat stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal ailments.
Source: “Pharmacological Effects of Glycyrrhiza spp. and Its Bioactive Constituents: Update and Review” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26462981/
The sweetness in licorice root is attributed to glycyrrhizin which can be 30 to 50 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar).
Source: “Pharmacological Effects of Glycyrrhiza spp. and Its Bioactive Constituents: Update and Review” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26462981/
Glycyrrhizin can interact with enzymes in the body, increasing cortisol levels by inhibiting the enzyme that metabolizes it, leading to an increase of cortisol in the body.
Source: “Licorice-induced apparent mineralocorticoid excess causing persistent hypertension and hypokalemia” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8126388/
Glycyrrhizin interacts with mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid hormone receptors and affects mineral balances, especially potassium and sodium.
Source: “Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A Comprehensive Review on Its Phytochemistry, Biological Activities, Clinical Evidence and Toxicology” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8703329/
Glycyrrhizin inhibits the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which is responsible for breaking down cortisol. This inhibition can lead to increased cortisol levels in the body.
Source: “Licorice-induced apparent mineralocorticoid excess causing persistent hypertension and hypokalemia” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8126388/
Glycyrrhizin’s effect on mineralocorticoid activity causes the kidneys to retain sodium and water and excrete potassium, disrupting electrolyte balance.
Source: “Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A Comprehensive Review on Its Phytochemistry, Biological Activities, Clinical Evidence and Toxicology” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8703329/
Licorice consumption, due to its glycyrrhizin content, can cause the body to retain sodium and lose potassium, leading to mineral imbalances.
Source: “Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
The sodium retention and potassium depletion from licorice can lead to symptoms such as muscle weakness and muscle cramps.
Source: “Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
Severe potassium depletion caused by licorice use can result in cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and in some extreme cases, paralysis.
Source: “Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
Licorice, through its glycyrrhizin content, can lead to increased blood pressure by causing sodium and water retention and potassium depletion.
Source: “Licorice-induced apparent mineralocorticoid excess causing persistent hypertension and hypokalemia” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8126388/
Hypertension caused by licorice can increase the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and heart failure, especially in susceptible individuals.
Source: “Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
High levels of cortisol can contribute to increased appetite, fat deposition, and impaired immune function.
Source: “Glycyrrhiza Genus: Enlightening Phytochemical Components for Pharmacological and Health-Promoting Abilities” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8328722/
Licorice, due to glycyrrhizin, interacts with the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which can cause an overactivation of the system, leading to high blood pressure and fluid retention.
Source: “Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A Comprehensive Review on Its Phytochemistry, Biological Activities, Clinical Evidence and Toxicology” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8703329/
Those with pre-existing heart, kidney, or blood pressure conditions are at higher risk of complications from licorice due to its effects on electrolyte balances and blood pressure.
Source: “Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
Licorice consumption during pregnancy may be associated with preterm birth and other adverse outcomes, so moderation is advised.
Source: “Glycyrrhiza Genus: Enlightening Phytochemical Components for Pharmacological and Health-Promoting Abilities” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8328722/
The European Food Safety Authority’s recommendation is for a daily limit of 100mg of glycyrrhizin in the diet to avoid adverse health effects.
The amount of glycyrrhizin in licorice candy varies, but 60-70 grams is generally considered the approximate equivalent for 100 mg of glycyrrhizin.
Initial symptoms of licorice toxicity include headache, lethargy, and water retention, which can manifest as tiredness and swelling of extremities.
Source: “Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
Sodium and water retention caused by licorice can lead to edema or swelling in areas like the hands and feet.
Source: “Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
Historically, licorice has been used to treat peptic ulcers and other digestive disorders. Some research also indicates benefits for respiratory issues as well.
Source: “Pharmacological Effects of Glycyrrhiza spp. and Its Bioactive Constituents: Update and Review” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26462981/
Licorice compounds have been shown to possess anti-ulcer and anti-inflammatory properties which may be beneficial in treating digestive ailments.
Source: “Pharmacological Effects of Glycyrrhiza spp. and Its Bioactive Constituents: Update and Review” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26462981/
While some studies suggest a potential role for licorice in adrenal function and hormonal balance, further research is required to solidify these findings and clinical applications. The hormonal effect is mainly due to its cortisol-like properties which is not the goal for adrenal support.
DGL undergoes processing to remove glycyrrhizin, which reduces the risk of adverse effects, including those associated with electrolyte imbalance and blood pressure.
Source: “Pharmacological Effects of Glycyrrhiza spp. and Its Bioactive Constituents: Update and Review” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26462981/
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is processed to remove glycyrrhizin, the compound responsible for many of licorice’s side effects.
Source: “Pharmacological Effects of Glycyrrhiza spp. and Its Bioactive Constituents: Update and Review” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26462981/
Medical management for licorice overdose often includes monitoring and correcting electrolyte imbalances (particularly potassium and sodium) and managing high blood pressure.
Source: “Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
Potassium supplements are commonly used in treating licorice toxicity in order to restore low potassium levels to normal.
Source: “Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
The effects of licorice toxicity depend on dose and duration of intake as well as individual susceptibility and can range from mild symptoms like headache to serious problems like cardiac arrhytmias.
Source: “Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
The FDA does not mandate warning labels on licorice products but does provide consumer guidance about the risks associated with its excessive consumption.
The Netherlands requires warning labels to appear on licorice products alerting consumers about potential blood pressure-related risks.
With regular consumption, the accumulation of glycyrrhizin in the body can lead to symptoms of licorice toxicity in a matter of weeks.
Source: “Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23185686/
Licorice tea contains glycyrrhizin, which can lead to sodium retention, potassium loss, and an increase in blood pressure.
Source: “Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A Comprehensive Review on Its Phytochemistry, Biological Activities, Clinical Evidence and Toxicology” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8703329/
Black licorice is more likely to have higher amounts of glycyrrhizin since it contains actual licorice root extract, while red licorice typically does not, resulting in a higher risk of adverse effects from black licorice.
Source: “Glycyrrhiza Genus: Enlightening Phytochemical Components for Pharmacological and Health-Promoting Abilities” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8328722/
The European Food Safety Authority’s recommended daily limit for glycyrrhizin is 100 mg to reduce the risk of adverse effects from licorice consumption.
Licorice can interact with blood pressure, diuretic, and heart medications, potentially causing adverse effects due to its effect on cortisol and electrolyte balances.
Source: “Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A Comprehensive Review on Its Phytochemistry, Biological Activities, Clinical Evidence and Toxicology” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8703329/
Licorice compounds have anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties and some studies suggest benefits for digestive and respiratory issues, but caution is required when using licorice for these potential benefits.
Source: “Pharmacological Effects of Glycyrrhiza spp. and Its Bioactive Constituents: Update and Review” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26462981/
Licorice root is the raw plant material, whereas licorice candy is typically a processed food product which may contain very little licorice root extract.
Licorice candy often contains lower concentrations of glycyrrhizin compared to the raw licorice root and can also have additional sugars, starches, and flavorings.
Large amounts of licorice consumption during pregnancy have been associated with adverse effects, such as preterm labor.
Source: “Glycyrrhiza Genus: Enlightening Phytochemical Components for Pharmacological and Health-Promoting Abilities” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8328722/