Licorice root is an herb commonly used to flavor and sweeten foods. Supplements made from the extract of licorice root may help treat a number of conditions, such as ulcers and indigestion, as well as respiratory infections. Some supplement users also take licorice to treat viral or bacterial infections, explains MedlinePlus. Researchers have not determined a clear benefit, but if you have a chronic or worsening eye infection, your doctor may recommend licorice root.
Conjunctivitis
The conjunctiva covers the surface of the whites of your eyes and lines the underside of your eyelids. An infection in the conjunctival tissue is call conjunctivitis, and these infections may result from allergic reactions, as well as from bacteria or a virus, such as the common cold. Conjunctivitis causes symptoms such as redness, itching and surface irritation. The demulcent properties of licorice root may soothe the irritation of the conjunctival membrane that results from surface inflammation.
Dosage
If your doctor determines that licorice root may prove beneficial to treat your eye infection, she will determine the appropriate dose of licorice root. The average dose for an adult using the standard licorice root extract ranges from 250mg to 500mg three times a day. Due to the dangers of side effects, you should not use licorice root for longer than one week, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Interactions
Licorice root may cause serious side effects if used with certain medication or health conditions. You should not take licorice root if you take certain blood pressure medication or diuretics, such as captopril, lisinopril and quinapril, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you take digoxin, birth control pills or laxatives, you may need to avoid taking licorice root supplements. Pregnant women should not take licorice root since this could lead to miscarriage or preterm labor.
Considerations
Do not start taking licorice root without first talking with your doctor. He will help you determine if you take medications that could result in serious complications if coupled with licorice root. If you have an eye infection, contact your eye doctor for an evaluation.
Member Comments