Are there any health benefits to eating licorice?

January 10, 2026 •

5 min read

For thousands of years, licorice root has been used in traditional medicine across Asia and Europe to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory and digestive issues. However, the health benefits largely depend on the form of licorice consumed and its active components.

Quick Summary

This article examines the historical and modern uses of licorice root, its active compounds like glycyrrhizin, and potential health benefits for the digestive, respiratory, and skin systems. It also details important safety considerations and the differences between standard and deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL).

Key Points

Glycyrrhizin is the key compound: Found in standard licorice root, glycyrrhizin provides most of its potent anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and sweetening properties, but also carries significant health risks in high amounts.
Digestive relief is a major benefit: Licorice root can effectively soothe acid reflux, help heal peptic ulcers by increasing protective mucus, and calm stomach inflammation.
Consider DGL for digestive health: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a safer option for treating digestive issues as it removes the risky glycyrrhizin compound.
Beware of side effects with standard licorice: High consumption of glycyrrhizin can lead to serious health issues, including hypertension, hypokalemia (low potassium), and heart problems, especially for sensitive individuals.
Skin and oral health can also benefit: Topical licorice extract can brighten skin and reduce inflammation, while oral use has been shown to help fight cavity-causing bacteria.
American candy is often not real licorice: Many "black licorice" candies sold in the U.S. are flavored with anise oil, not licorice root, and lack the medicinal properties—and risks—of the real herb.
Consult a doctor before use: Due to potential interactions with medications and contraindications for certain health conditions, always talk to a healthcare provider before using licorice as a medicinal supplement.

The licorice plant, Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been valued in traditional medicine for its distinct properties. The root contains nearly 300 compounds, with its main active component being glycyrrhizin. While this compound provides much of the root's sweet taste and many of its potential therapeutic effects, it is also linked to significant health risks when consumed in high amounts or for prolonged periods. This is why many modern supplements use deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), which has had the glycyrrhizin removed.

The Digestive Health Benefits of Licorice Root

Licorice root is most well-known for its positive effects on the digestive system. Its anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties can help soothe and protect the gastrointestinal tract.

Relieving Acid Reflux and Indigestion: Glycyrrhizin-containing licorice root extract has been shown to inhibit gastric acid secretion while reducing inflammation in the stomach lining, which helps mitigate the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Treating Peptic Ulcers: Licorice root may help heal peptic ulcers, which are often caused by the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterium. The root's flavonoids can increase mucus production, forming a protective barrier over the stomach wall, and help inhibit the growth of H. pylori.
Soothing Inflammation: The root's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds can soothe inflammation in the stomach and intestines, providing relief for gastritis and other gut-related irritations.

Respiratory and Immune System Support

Licorice root has been a staple in traditional medicine for treating respiratory issues.

Easing Sore Throats and Coughs: As a natural expectorant, licorice root helps loosen and expel phlegm, which can ease congestion and soothe sore throats and coughs. A licorice gargle may also reduce a sore throat after breathing tube removal in a hospital setting.
Antiviral and Antimicrobial Properties: Licorice contains compounds that exhibit antiviral and antimicrobial activity, which can help the body fight off infections. For instance, glycyrrhizin has shown promise in test-tube studies against certain viruses.

Benefits for Skin and Oral Health

Topical and oral forms of licorice can offer several benefits for skin and oral health.

Skin Brightening and Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Licorice extract contains compounds like glabridin and liquiritin, which can help reduce hyperpigmentation, lighten dark spots, and even out skin tone. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also soothe irritated skin conditions like eczema.
Protecting Against Cavities: The antimicrobial compounds in licorice root can help reduce the growth of bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, which are known to cause dental cavities. Studies using licorice-flavored lollipops have shown a reduction in this bacteria in children.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations

While licorice root offers benefits, it is crucial to understand the risks, particularly related to its main component, glycyrrhizin.

Glycyrrhizin and its Associated Risks

Regular, high consumption of glycyrrhizin can lead to serious health problems, as it interferes with the body's mineralocorticoid system. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other health bodies warn against excessive intake.

Hypertension and Hypokalemia: Glycyrrhizin inhibits an enzyme that regulates cortisol levels, leading to pseudo-hyperaldosteronism. This can cause the body to retain salt and water while excreting potassium, resulting in dangerously high blood pressure and low potassium levels (hypokalemia).
Heart Complications: Severe hypokalemia can cause irregular heart rhythms (cardiac arrhythmias) and in extreme cases, cardiac arrest.
Other Side Effects: Other documented side effects include edema (swelling), muscle weakness, lethargy, and in rare cases, myopathy.

Comparison of Licorice Forms


Feature	Standard Licorice Root	Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)	American "Black Licorice" Candy
Active Component	Contains Glycyrrhizin, plus other flavonoids and triterpenes.	Processed to remove Glycyrrhizin, focusing on other beneficial compounds.	Often flavored with anise oil, not real licorice root extract.
Safety Profile	Potential for serious side effects, including high blood pressure and hypokalemia, with high or long-term intake.	Considered safer for long-term use as it lacks the mineralocorticoid-like effects of glycyrrhizin.	Generally safe as it lacks the active compounds of the root, but is typically high in sugar.
Therapeutic Use	Traditional uses for a wide range of ailments, including inflammatory and respiratory issues.	Primary use is for soothing digestive issues like peptic ulcers and acid reflux.	No significant medicinal benefits; serves as a confectionery.

Who Should Avoid Licorice?

Certain individuals should avoid licorice root containing glycyrrhizin due to heightened risks:

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: High licorice consumption during pregnancy is considered unsafe and has been linked to negative effects on child development.
Individuals with Heart Conditions: People with heart failure, high blood pressure, or a history of irregular heartbeats are especially vulnerable to the cardiovascular side effects.
People with Kidney Disease: The mineralocorticoid effects can exacerbate kidney problems.
Those on Certain Medications: Licorice can interact with various medications, including blood pressure drugs, diuretics, corticosteroids, and blood thinners like warfarin.

Conclusion: Navigating the Complexities of Licorice

Eating or supplementing with licorice can offer several health benefits, particularly for digestive, respiratory, and skin conditions, due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. However, the safety profile is highly dependent on the form and amount consumed. Standard licorice root, especially when consumed frequently or in large amounts, carries a risk of serious side effects due to its glycyrrhizin content, including dangerous elevations in blood pressure and reductions in potassium. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) offers a safer alternative for targeted digestive relief by removing this risky compound. For casual consumption, most U.S. black licorice candy is flavored with anise and contains no real licorice root, posing no health risks from glycyrrhizin, although it is still a sugary confectionery. Consumers should always consult a healthcare provider before using licorice as a remedy, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medication, to ensure its safe and effective use.

Optional Outbound Link

For a deeper dive into the phytochemical and pharmacological properties of licorice, you can explore peer-reviewed studies available through the National Center for Biotechnology Information.

Potential Health Benefits of Licorice Root Extract


Health Area	Key Benefits	Supporting Evidence
Digestive System	Soothes acid reflux, aids in healing peptic ulcers, reduces inflammation.	Contains compounds that form a protective barrier in the stomach and inhibit H. pylori bacteria.
Respiratory Health	Acts as an expectorant, soothes sore throats, possesses antiviral and antimicrobial properties.	Compounds help break up mucus and fight infection-causing bacteria.
Skin Conditions	Reduces hyperpigmentation, lightens dark spots, and possesses anti-inflammatory effects.	Compounds like glabridin and liquiritin inhibit melanin production and soothe inflammation.
Oral Health	Fights bacteria causing cavities, treats canker sores, improves oral hygiene.	Antimicrobial properties reduce bacteria growth and aid in healing oral ulcers.

Conclusion

While the health benefits of licorice root are rooted in centuries of traditional use and supported by some modern research, its consumption requires careful consideration. Pure licorice root containing glycyrrhizin is not without risk, especially for certain individuals and when taken in high amounts. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) provides a safer path for those seeking specific digestive support without the dangers of glycyrrhizin. Understanding the difference between these forms is key to using licorice safely and effectively. Before incorporating licorice into your health regimen, particularly in medicinal amounts, a consultation with a healthcare professional is strongly advised to assess individual risks and suitability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Standard licorice contains glycyrrhizin, the compound responsible for both its medicinal benefits and potential side effects, such as elevated blood pressure. DGL, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice, has had the glycyrrhizin removed, making it a safer option for treating digestive problems without the associated risks.

Not necessarily. Many black licorice candies in the United States are flavored with anise oil instead of real licorice root extract and therefore do not contain the problematic compound glycyrrhizin. However, these candies are still high in sugar and offer no health benefits.

Yes, licorice root can act as a demulcent and an expectorant, meaning it can soothe irritated mucous membranes and help clear mucus. It has been traditionally used to help with coughs and sore throats, and a licorice gargle can help reduce pain.

Individuals with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, or low potassium levels should avoid licorice containing glycyrrhizin. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those taking certain medications like diuretics or blood pressure medicine, should also be cautious or avoid it entirely.

Licorice extract contains compounds like glabridin and liquiritin that possess anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties. When applied topically, it can help reduce hyperpigmentation, soothe sensitive skin, and calm conditions like eczema.

Yes, licorice can have serious interactions with medications. It can interfere with blood pressure medications, diuretics, and corticosteroids. It may also decrease the effectiveness of blood thinners like warfarin and interact with other drugs metabolized by the liver.

Regular, high-amount consumption of standard licorice root containing glycyrrhizin is not recommended due to the risk of serious side effects like hypertension and heart problems. However, DGL supplements may be suitable for daily use for digestive issues, following professional advice.

Licorice root helps treat peptic ulcers by increasing the production of protective mucus in the stomach and inhibiting the growth of H. pylori, a common cause of ulcers. It also promotes a healthy stomach lining and reduces inflammation.

The safe amount of licorice varies depending on the form and individual. The FDA and other sources warn against consuming large amounts of glycyrrhizin-containing licorice daily for several weeks. DGL supplements generally have specific guidance on use, often involving administration before meals for conditions like GERD.