Is glycyrrhizin safe to consume?

January 6, 2026 •

2 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends limiting daily glycyrrhizin intake to under 100 mg to prevent side effects. This compound, found naturally in licorice root, has been used for centuries, but is glycyrrhizin safe to consume regularly or in large amounts?

Quick Summary

While small amounts of glycyrrhizin from licorice are generally well-tolerated, high or chronic intake can cause severe side effects, particularly in at-risk individuals.

Key Points

Moderate Amounts: Small, occasional consumption of glycyrrhizin-containing licorice is generally considered safe for healthy adults.
Risk of Overconsumption: Chronic or high intake can lead to serious side effects, including high blood pressure, low potassium, and irregular heartbeats.
At-Risk Individuals: People with hypertension, heart or kidney disease, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid glycyrrhizin.
Know Your Product: The glycyrrhizin content varies widely and is often not disclosed, making it difficult to monitor intake.
DGL is Safer: For those seeking digestive benefits without the risks, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is the recommended alternative.
Drug Interactions: Glycyrrhizin can interact with common medications, including diuretics, corticosteroids, and blood thinners.
WHO Limit: The World Health Organization suggests a daily intake limit of 100 mg of glycyrrhizin.

The Dual Nature of Glycyrrhizin: Benefits and Risks

Glycyrrhizin, or glycyrrhizic acid, is the main sweet compound in licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra).

Understanding the Risks of Glycyrrhizin Overconsumption

Excessive or long-term glycyrrhizin intake can cause serious side effects like high blood pressure, low potassium, cardiac issues, and fluid retention.

Recommended Limits and Safety for Glycyrrhizin Intake

The WHO and European Scientific Committee of Food suggest limiting glycyrrhizin intake to below 100 mg per day. Occasional use is safer than chronic use.

Contraindications and Who Should Avoid Glycyrrhizin

Certain individuals should avoid glycyrrhizin due to heightened risks, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, those with hypertension, heart or kidney disease, and individuals taking certain medications.

Glycyrrhizin vs. Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)

DGL is a safer alternative for enjoying licorice benefits without the glycyrrhizin risks. {Link: Dr.Oracle droracle.ai}


Feature	Glycyrrhizin-Containing Licorice	Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)
Active Compound	Contains glycyrrhizin, the sweet component responsible for side effects.	Glycyrrhizin is removed or significantly reduced.
Primary Risk	High risk of hypertension and hypokalemia.	Minimal risk of hypertension and hypokalemia.
Recommended Use	Occasional and limited consumption only.	Safe for short-term use (up to four months).
Best For	Mild flavoring in food and beverages for those without contraindications.	Seeking digestive or respiratory benefits without glycyrrhizin risks.

Drug Interactions of Glycyrrhizin

Glycyrrhizin can interact with various medications, such as diuretics, corticosteroids, digitalis, antihypertensives, and blood thinners.

Conclusion: Prudence is Key

While licorice and glycyrrhizin have historical uses and provide flavor, they are not universally safe. Always consult a healthcare professional before using new supplements, especially with existing health issues or medications. For more information, consult resources like the {Link: NCCIH nccih.nih.gov}.

Frequently Asked Questions

Glycyrrhizin is the main sweet-tasting compound extracted from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and is responsible for many of licorice's flavor and biological effects.

Excessive or prolonged consumption of glycyrrhizin can lead to serious health issues, including high blood pressure, low potassium levels (hypokalemia), fluid retention, and irregular heartbeats.

The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that limiting daily glycyrrhizin intake to under 100 mg would likely not cause adverse effects in most adults. However, some sensitive individuals may react to lower doses.

Yes, DGL is a product where the glycyrrhizin has been removed, making it a much safer alternative for those seeking the benefits of licorice without the risk of high blood pressure or other related side effects.

Individuals with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney conditions, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid consuming glycyrrhizin due to heightened risks.

Yes, glycyrrhizin can interact with drugs such as diuretics, corticosteroids, and digoxin. It may also interfere with antihypertensive and anticoagulant medications.

No. Many "licorice" products sold in the United States, especially red licorice and some black licorice, are flavored with anise oil and do not contain actual licorice root or glycyrrhizin.