The use of licorice root spans back thousands of years, with ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Chinese cultures relying on it for various ailments, from coughs to digestive distress. Today, scientific inquiry is uncovering the specific mechanisms behind these traditional applications, focusing on the root's numerous bioactive compounds.
The Key Active Compounds in Licorice
Licorice root's health effects are primarily attributed to its complex profile of plant compounds, with the most significant being glycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhizin is an intensely sweet triterpene saponin responsible for much of the root's medicinal activity, but also its primary risks. In the body, gut bacteria break down glycyrrhizin into glycyrrhetinic acid, which is where many of its effects and side effects originate.
To manage the risks of glycyrrhizin, a special form known as deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is available. In DGL, the glycyrrhizin has been removed, providing some of licorice's therapeutic benefits without the associated risk of increased blood pressure.
Potential Health Benefits of Licorice Root
Numerous studies, including both traditional and modern clinical trials, have investigated the potential health benefits of licorice root. Many of these effects are linked to its potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
Digestive health
- Relieves acid reflux and indigestion: Licorice root can help soothe symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), such as acid reflux and indigestion. A 2017 study found that daily licorice root intake was more effective at reducing symptoms in adults with GERD over a two-year period compared to a conventional antacid.
- Supports peptic ulcer healing: Some licorice compounds, particularly those in DGL, may help treat peptic ulcers by increasing the production of protective mucus in the stomach lining and promoting the healing of damaged tissue. Research also suggests licorice extract, when combined with standard treatment, can help eradicate H. pylori, the bacteria often responsible for ulcers.
Respiratory health
- Soothes sore throats: Licorice has long been a traditional remedy for sore throats and coughs. Studies have shown that gargling with a licorice solution or using lozenges before intubation can reduce post-operative sore throat. Its anti-inflammatory action helps reduce swelling, while its demulcent (soothing) properties can coat irritated mucous membranes.
- Eases asthma symptoms: Animal studies suggest that glycyrrhizin extract from licorice root may help relieve asthma due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
Skin conditions
- Manages eczema: Topical application of licorice extract has shown promise in treating skin conditions like eczema (atopic dermatitis). A 2019 study even found a cream containing licorice root to be as effective as a 1% hydrocortisone cream for managing eczema symptoms.
Anticancer properties
- Inhibits cancer cell growth: Early research, primarily in laboratory and animal studies, has explored licorice root's potential anticancer effects. Certain compounds have been shown to slow or prevent cancer cell growth in cases of skin, colorectal, and breast cancer. However, more human research is needed to confirm these findings.
The Risks and Dangers of Licorice (Glycyrrhizin)
While licorice has potential benefits, its primary active compound, glycyrrhizin, carries significant health risks, especially when consumed in large quantities or for prolonged periods.
- Increased blood pressure: Glycyrrhizin inhibits an enzyme that inactivates the stress hormone cortisol, leading to elevated cortisol levels. This can cause fluid retention and increased blood pressure, a condition known as pseudohyperaldosteronism. Some research suggests that even relatively low amounts of glycyrrhizin can affect blood pressure.
- Hypokalemia: The retention of sodium and water caused by glycyrrhizin can also lead to excessive potassium loss, resulting in low potassium levels (hypokalemia). This can cause muscle weakness, lethargy, and irregular heart rhythms.
- Pregnancy risks: Consuming large amounts of licorice during pregnancy is considered unsafe and has been linked to an increased risk of preterm delivery.
- Drug interactions: Licorice can interact with various medications, including blood pressure medications, blood thinners (warfarin), corticosteroids, and diuretics.
Licorice (Glycyrrhizin) vs. DGL: A Comparison
To avoid the side effects associated with glycyrrhizin, a processed form called deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is widely available. The following table compares the two forms.
| Feature | Standard Licorice (with Glycyrrhizin) | Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) |
|---|---|---|
| Glycyrrhizin Content | Present | Removed (trace amounts) |
| Taste | Intensely sweet | Less sweet, but retains licorice flavor |
| Primary Risk | Increased blood pressure, hypokalemia | Few serious adverse effects reported |
| Best for | Short-term use for respiratory or anti-inflammatory issues under medical supervision | Long-term use for digestive complaints like ulcers or acid reflux |
| Effectiveness for Ulcers | Helps fight H. pylori | Promotes mucosal healing and increases mucus production |
| Mechanism | Inhibits cortisol-metabolizing enzyme | Stimulates protective mucus in the digestive tract |
Conclusion
Licorice root possesses several scientifically supported benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects that can aid digestive and respiratory health. However, its primary active compound, glycyrrhizin, poses a significant risk of side effects like elevated blood pressure and low potassium, especially with high or prolonged intake. For those seeking licorice's benefits for digestive issues, the safer DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) form is often recommended. Anyone considering licorice supplements should consult a healthcare professional, particularly if they have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications. Find reputable herbal medicine information on the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health website.
