Is Licorice Tea Unhealthy? Separating Myth from Medical Fact

January 5, 2026 •

3 min read

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), while licorice root is often used as a flavoring, consuming it in large amounts or for an extended period can lead to serious adverse effects. This raises the important question: Is licorice tea unhealthy, and how can you enjoy it safely?

Quick Summary

This article explains the health implications of licorice tea, detailing the role of the compound glycyrrhizin. It covers potential risks such as elevated blood pressure and low potassium, alongside possible benefits like digestive relief, for safe consumption guidance.

Key Points

Glycyrrhizin is the key compound: The natural sweetener in licorice root, glycyrrhizin, is responsible for both the taste and the potential adverse health effects.
Blood pressure can increase: Excessive consumption can cause fluid and sodium retention, leading to a rise in blood pressure and dangerous cardiovascular events.
Potassium levels can drop: Glycyrrhizin also causes the body to lose potassium, which can result in hypokalemia, characterized by muscle weakness and irregular heart rhythms.
Certain individuals should avoid it: Pregnant women and those with hypertension, heart, or kidney disease should avoid licorice tea due to heightened risks.
DGL licorice is a safer alternative: For those seeking benefits like digestive relief without the glycyrrhizin-related risks, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is an option.
It interacts with medications: Licorice can interfere with blood pressure medication, diuretics, blood thinners, and other drugs, making professional medical advice essential.

The Double-Edged Sword: Glycyrrhizin in Licorice

Licorice tea, derived from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, has a history spanning thousands of years in traditional medicine. Its distinctive sweet taste and perceived health benefits stem from the compound glycyrrhizin. However, this same compound is linked to potential health risks. Glycyrrhizin and its metabolite, glycyrrhetinic acid, can disrupt an enzyme (11-β-HSD2) that manages cortisol. This disruption elevates cortisol levels, leading to increased sodium retention and potassium loss in the body. This effect is known as pseudohyperaldosteronism and is the primary cause of adverse effects from excessive licorice consumption.

Potential Health Risks of Licorice Tea

While occasional consumption is generally safe for most, regular or excessive intake of licorice tea can lead to significant health problems.

1. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): A major concern is a substantial increase in blood pressure. Glycyrrhizin's effect on sodium retention can cause fluid buildup and raise blood pressure, posing a risk, especially for those with existing hypertension or heart issues. Cases of hypertensive emergencies have been reported in individuals consuming large amounts of licorice tea over time.

2. Low Potassium (Hypokalemia): The body's loss of potassium can lead to dangerously low levels. Symptoms may include muscle weakness, fatigue, and abnormal heart rhythms. Severe cases can result in heart failure or paralysis. The FDA advises caution regarding consuming more than 2 ounces of black licorice daily for two weeks or more.

3. Other Cardiovascular Issues: The combination of fluid retention, high blood pressure, and low potassium can strain the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia) and heart failure.

4. Hormonal and Medication Interactions: Licorice can interfere with various medications, including those for blood pressure, diuretics, blood thinners like warfarin, and hormonal contraceptives. It is also not recommended for pregnant women due to the risk of premature birth.

The Benefits of Moderate Consumption

Despite the risks of overconsumption, licorice root has historical medicinal uses and may offer benefits when consumed in moderation and in appropriate forms.

Soothes Digestive Issues: Traditional use includes soothing stomach discomfort, aiding digestion, and alleviating heartburn. It may also help combat the H. pylori bacteria linked to stomach ulcers.
Relieves Sore Throats: Its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties can help soothe a sore throat and cough.
Supports Oral Health: Research suggests compounds in licorice can fight bacteria that contribute to plaque, cavities, and canker sores.

Regular vs. DGL Licorice: Understanding the Difference

Licorice products differ in their composition. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) has the glycyrrhizin removed, making it a potentially safer option for those seeking the traditional benefits without the risks of elevated blood pressure and low potassium.


Feature	Regular Licorice Root Tea	DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated) Licorice Tea
Key Compound	Contains glycyrrhizin	Glycyrrhizin has been removed
Cardiovascular Risk	High risk of raising blood pressure and lowering potassium with excessive or chronic use	Minimal to no risk of affecting blood pressure or potassium
Safety Profile	Caution advised for those with high blood pressure, heart/kidney disease, or those taking specific medications	Generally considered safer for consumption for most individuals
Recommended Use	Occasional, moderate use only; not for long-term consumption	Can be used for longer periods, but still consult a healthcare provider
Source of Benefit	Both glycyrrhizin and other compounds contribute	Relies on other compounds for benefits, but less evidence exists for its effectiveness

Making an Informed Choice: Is Licorice Tea Unhealthy for You?

Determining if licorice tea is unhealthy for you depends on your health and how much you consume. While occasional, moderate use is generally safe, individuals with pre-existing conditions or those on certain medications should be cautious or avoid it. DGL licorice offers an alternative to experience traditional benefits without the glycyrrhizin-related risks. It is important to remember that even seemingly harmless herbal products can have significant effects. Always consult a healthcare professional before making licorice tea a regular part of your routine.

The Takeaway

In conclusion, the health implications of licorice tea are not absolute and depend on factors like consumption amount, frequency, glycyrrhizin content, and individual health. Understanding the risks, particularly concerning blood pressure and potassium, is key to safe consumption. DGL licorice may be a safer choice for some. Being an informed consumer, recognizing both historical use and scientific warnings, is essential. Resources like The Herb Society of America offer valuable information for responsible use of herbal products.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary risk of consuming excessive licorice tea is the elevation of blood pressure and a dangerous decrease in potassium levels, known as hypokalemia.

Individuals with high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, low potassium levels, and pregnant women should avoid licorice tea. It can exacerbate these conditions and interact negatively with certain medications.

While recommendations vary, a single cup of licorice tea is generally not problematic. However, chronic or long-term consumption, especially in large amounts, can be excessive and lead to adverse effects.

DGL, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice, is a form of licorice where the compound glycyrrhizin has been removed. It is considered a healthier alternative because it lacks the compound responsible for raising blood pressure and lowering potassium.

Yes, licorice tea can interact with medications for blood pressure, heart failure, diuretics, blood thinners, and hormonal therapies. It's crucial to consult a doctor if you are on any medication.

In moderation, licorice tea can potentially aid in digestion, soothe a sore throat, support oral health, and provide anti-inflammatory effects.

Glycyrrhizin inhibits an enzyme (11-β-HSD2), leading to an increase in cortisol levels. This causes the kidneys to retain sodium and excrete potassium, which can lead to high blood pressure and low potassium.