Licorice
Licorice is the root of Glycyrrhiza, a plant of the pea family. It contains glycyrrhizin, the sweet-tasting compound that also gives licorice candy its flavor.
Also listed as Liquorice, Yashtimadhu, Glycyrrhiza, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis
Who is particularly vulnerable?
Licorice medicines are not recommended with hypertension, kidney, liver or cardiovascular disease, or low potassium. EMA also advises against use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 1
BfR advises limiting glycyrrhizin to below 100 mg/day. This is not a guaranteed safe supplement dose: NCCIH reports serious reactions even at small amounts in susceptible people. 2 3
Which medicines can interact?
EMA warns about diuretics, cardiac glycosides, corticosteroids and stimulant laxatives because electrolyte disturbances can worsen. Licorice may also oppose blood-pressure medicines. 1
Adverse findings
Ratings where the reported effect was unwanted. Each lists the studies behind it.
For information, not individual medical advice. Ingredient studies do not establish the effectiveness of these products.