Licorice

Licorice

• What Is It and How Does It Work in the Body?

  • Licorice, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is comprised of triterpenoids, polyphenols, and polysaccharides. It works in the body through its anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. Some studies have found that in animal studies, components of licorice can clear immune complexes thus decreasing inflammation. In terms of antiviral properties, licorice is used to inhibit the virus from binding to the host membrane and replicating. Some studies have observed licorice-induced interferon production through T-cells.

• What Is It Used for and at What Dosage?

  • Licorice can be used for cardiac use, diabetes, and endocrine uses. For cardiac use, effects are seen at 50-200 g/day.

  • Licorice extract syrup was used in patients with Parkinson's Disease at a dose of 136 mg twice daily. In some women, licorice has been used in conjunction with spironolactone in the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome. For ulcer gastritis, or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, licorice root has been used at a dose of 760 mg to 15 g.

• Evidence for or Against Its Different Uses (Broken Down by Evidence for Each Use):

  • For blood pressure, licorice has been seen to increase blood pressure without changes in heart rate. It was observed that of the 30 of the 39 patients that completed the trial of patients with Parkinson's Disease there was significant improvement of total disease, motor, daily activities, tremor, and rigidity. For hot flashes, patients taking 1140 mg/day noted a significant reduction in hot flashes. For metabolic effects, licorice has been shown to reduce weight.

• Safety Concerns, Side Effects, and Precautions:

  • When licorice is consumed at normal consumption levels, few side effects are observed. For example, if consumed in large doses, can cause hypertension. At high doses, vasospasm of the optic nerve blood vessels has been observed. Hypersensitivity reactions have been noted as well. Licorice can also have effect of exacerbating heart failure and should be used with caution in patients on anticoagulation.

• Interactions with Medications:

  • Licorice has several interactions with other medications where it can increase the toxic effects of certain agents. For example, licorice can enhance the effects of anticoagulants and increase bleeding. Bleeding can also occur with some NSAIDs and salicylates. Licorice can also increase the effect of loop and thiazide diuretics.