Botanicals
Licorice Root — timing, dose & interactions
Root used for flavor and for heartburn. Its glycyrrhizin raises blood pressure and lowers potassium by mimicking the hormone aldosterone; large or long-term intake can cause irregular heartbeat and even cardiac arrest. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) products have the glycyrrhizin removed.
Also known as: Liquorice, DGL, Glycyrrhiza glabra
Timing
When to take it
DGL chewables are usually taken before meals for heartburn.
Interactions
Licorice Root with other supplements
No documented supplement interactions in our dataset.
Safety
Medications & health conditions
Licorice raises blood pressure and lowers potassium. Glycyrrhizin acts like the hormone aldosterone. Even small amounts have caused serious problems in people with hypertension, and potassium loss adds to that from many diuretics. Use DGL instead, or avoid.
Avoid licorice with kidney disease. NIH notes severe adverse effects from even small amounts of glycyrrhizin in people with heart or kidney conditions.
Licorice interacts with corticosteroids. Interactions between licorice and corticosteroids have been reported. Check with your prescriber.
Avoid licorice in pregnancy. Large amounts raise the risk of preterm delivery, and in a Finnish cohort, children of mothers with high glycyrrhizin intake scored lower on IQ and memory tests.
Buying guide
What to look for on the label
Licorice Root
- DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) — avoids the blood-pressure effect
- Avoid whole licorice root extract for regular use
FAQ
Common questions
When is the best time to take Licorice Root?
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner. DGL chewables are usually taken before meals for heartburn.
Should Licorice Root be taken with food?
It can be taken with or without food. DGL chewables are usually taken before meals for heartburn.
Sources