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health guides

liquorice

Also indexed as:Glycyrrhiza glabra, Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Licorice Root
liquorice: Main Image© Steven Foster
Botanical names:
Glycyrrhiza glabra, Glycyrrhiza uralensis

Side Effects

liquorice products that include glycyrrhizin may increase blood pressure and cause water retention and potassium deficiency.10 Some people are more sensitive to this effect than others. Long-term intake (more than two to three weeks) of products containing more than 1 gram of glycyrrhizin (the amount in approximately 10 grams of root) daily is the usual amount required to cause these effects. Consumption of 7 grams liquorice (containing 500 mg glycyrrhizin) per day for seven days has been shown to decrease serum testosterone levels in healthy men by blocking the enzymes needed to synthesise testosterone.11 However, in another study, a similar amount of liquorice had only a small and statistically insignificant effect on testosterone levels.12 As a result of these possible side effects, long-term intake of high levels of glycyrrhizin is discouraged and should only be undertaken if prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. Consumption of plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to increase potassium intake is recommended to help decrease the chance of potassium deficiency. According to the German Commission E monograph, liquorice is inadvisable for pregnant women as well as for people with liver and kidney disorders.13

De-glycyrrhizinated liquorice extracts usually do not cause these side effects since 97% of the glycyrrhizin has been removed.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.