Does Licorice Candy Have Side Effects? What You Need to Know

December 10, 2025 •

3 min read

In 2020, a case study reported on a 54-year-old man who experienced cardiac arrest due to excessive consumption of black licorice, serving as a stark reminder that licorice candy has side effects when consumed in large quantities. The key lies in understanding the compound responsible and knowing who is most at risk.

Quick Summary

Excessive consumption of true licorice candy, containing the compound glycyrrhizin, can lead to serious health issues like high blood pressure, low potassium, and heart problems. Understanding the risks and ingredient lists is crucial for safe consumption.

Key Points

Glycyrrhizin is the key compound: The main side effects in real licorice candy are caused by glycyrrhizin, which is not present in anise-flavored varieties.
Cardiovascular risks are significant: Excessive licorice can lead to high blood pressure, low potassium, fluid retention, and irregular heartbeats.
Certain groups are more vulnerable: People over 40, those with heart or kidney disease, and pregnant women are at higher risk for serious complications.
Drug interactions are a concern: Licorice can interfere with medications for blood pressure, heart rhythm, and blood thinning, making them less effective or more dangerous.
Moderation is critical: For most healthy adults, small amounts are safe, but consumption should be limited. Always check the ingredient label for licorice root or glycyrrhizin.

Understanding the Culprit: Glycyrrhizin

Most side effects associated with true black licorice stem from glycyrrhizin, a compound in licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). Glycyrrhizin mimics the hormone aldosterone, which can lead to various health issues. It's worth noting that many US candies labeled 'licorice,' including red and some black varieties, are flavored with anise oil and contain little to no real licorice root or glycyrrhizin. These typically do not pose the same risks as genuine licorice.

Serious Health Consequences of Overconsumption

Excessive intake of glycyrrhizin can cause several adverse effects, primarily impacting electrolyte balance and the cardiovascular system.

High Blood Pressure and Heart Problems

Glycyrrhizin inhibits an enzyme that inactivates cortisol in the kidneys, leading to 'pseudoaldosteronism'. This results in salt and water retention and potassium loss, significantly increasing blood pressure. Severe cases may cause irregular heart rhythms, heart failure, or cardiac arrest. The FDA warns that consuming just 2 ounces of black licorice daily for two weeks can cause heart rhythm issues in those over 40.

Low Potassium Levels (Hypokalemia)

Licorice can deplete the body's potassium levels, which are crucial for heart and muscle function. Symptoms of low potassium may include fatigue, muscle weakness or cramping, abnormal heart rhythms, and swelling.

Who is at Heightened Risk?

While moderation is generally recommended, certain individuals should be particularly cautious or avoid licorice:

Individuals over 40: More sensitive to glycyrrhizin effects.
Pregnant Women: Linked to premature delivery and potential impact on fetal brain development.
Those with Heart or Kidney Disease: Pre-existing conditions can be aggravated by fluid retention and potassium imbalance.
Patients on Certain Medications: Licorice can interfere with various prescription drugs.

Drug Interactions with Licorice

Licorice can interact with certain medications. If you take any of the following, avoid licorice root products:

Diuretics and Blood Pressure Medications: May counteract effects and increase potassium loss.
Digoxin: Low potassium increases sensitivity and risk of toxicity.
Warfarin: May decrease effectiveness, increasing clot risk.
Corticosteroids: Can increase effects and side effects.

Is all licorice created equal? A comparison

The health risks are tied specifically to glycyrrhizin in real licorice root extract. It is important to differentiate between products.


Feature	True Black Licorice Candy	Anise-Flavored Candy (e.g., Red Licorice)
Active Ingredient	Glycyrrhizin (from licorice root)	Anise oil, artificial flavors
Main Health Risk	High blood pressure, low potassium (hypokalemia), heart issues with excessive intake	Risks associated with high sugar content, no specific risks from anise oil
Appearance	Often dark black in color	Can be red, pink, or other colors
Effect on Body	Can affect electrolyte balance and hormone levels	Does not have mineralocorticoid-like effects on the body
Labeling	Lists 'licorice extract' or 'glycyrrhizin'	Lists 'anise oil' or artificial flavoring

Safe Consumption Guidelines and Final Thoughts

Small amounts of licorice candy are generally safe for healthy adults. The WHO suggests an acceptable daily intake of up to 100 mg of glycyrrhizic acid (about 60-70 grams of licorice) for most adults. However, glycyrrhizin content varies, so caution is advised. Avoidance may be necessary for those with health conditions or on certain medications. Always check ingredient lists for real licorice root extract. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns. For more information, the FDA provides a consumer update on black licorice risks.

Conclusion

While enjoyable, licorice candy carries risks due to glycyrrhizin. This compound can disrupt electrolyte balance and lead to cardiovascular problems with overconsumption. Understanding the difference between real licorice and anise-flavored alternatives, practicing moderation, and consulting a doctor for underlying health issues or medication interactions are key to safe consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary ingredient is glycyrrhizin, a compound found in real licorice root. It can affect the body's electrolyte balance and lead to health problems with excessive consumption.

Yes, excessive consumption of black licorice containing glycyrrhizin can cause high blood pressure by altering your body's hormone and electrolyte levels.

No, most red licorice and many black licorice candies made in the US are flavored with anise oil, not real licorice root. They typically do not contain glycyrrhizin and therefore do not have the same side effects.

While it varies, the FDA advises that for people over 40, eating more than 2 ounces of black licorice daily for two weeks may cause health problems. The WHO suggests up to 100 mg of glycyrrhizic acid (around 60-70 grams of licorice) per day is safe for most healthy adults, but caution is advised.

Yes, pregnant women should avoid licorice, especially in large amounts, as it has been linked to an increased risk of preterm delivery and potential negative impacts on fetal development.

Symptoms of overconsumption can include abnormal heart rhythms, swelling (edema), lethargy, and muscle weakness, which are often related to low potassium levels.

Yes, licorice can interact with several medications, including blood pressure drugs, diuretics, digoxin, warfarin, and corticosteroids.