Licorice and Inflammation

Inflammation is the process by which the cells and chemicals of the immune system protect you from various bacteria and viruses. However, sometimes the immune system may inappropriately attack its own cells and tissues and lead to autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, tendinitis, gout and other chronic conditions. Non-steroid anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroids are prescribed to treat these conditions. Certain natural supplements such as licorice may also help manage inflammatory disorders, but check with your physician before taking licorice.

About Licorice

Licorice, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a small perennial plant with extensive branching roots. The leaves, underground stems and roots of the plant possess immense medicinal value and have been used traditionally to treat a variety of conditions including eczema, indigestion, ulcers, dyspepsia and infections. The polyphenols and flavonoids of the plant are responsible for its biological activity and it is available as teas, capsules, tablets and liquid extracts.

Link Between Licorice and Inflammation

The ethyl acetate extracts of the leaves of the licorice plant possess significant anti-inflammatory activity and have a potential to treat and prevent several diseases, according to a study published in the June 2011 issue of the journal "Fitoterapia." Another study in the February 2011 issue of the journal "Inflammopharmacology" states that licorice-root extracts inhibit the pro-inflammatory mediator chemicals such as interleukins and nitric oxide, and may thereby prevent inflammatory diseases. In the book "Quick Access Patient Information on Conditions, Herbs & Supplements," Integrative Medicine Communications recommends 500 to 1,000 mg of licorice root extracts every 3 to 4 hours to treat the acute inflammatory reactions associated with insect bites.

Side Effects

High doses of licorice can increase the sensitivity to certain adrenal cortex hormones, thereby leading to symptoms such as headaches, fatigue and cardiovascular diseases. It can also cause water-retention in legs, muscle pain and numbness in arms and legs, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. It may also interfere with certain corticosteroid, diabetic and contraceptive medications.

Precautions

Always consult a doctor before using licorice to determine a dose that is right for you because even moderate doses may lead to severe side effects in rare cases. UMMC warns against the use of licorice products for more that 4 to 6 weeks. It also states that individuals with cardiovascular diseases and diabetes should not use licorice products. Production of licorice is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Hence, consult a pharmacist to ensure the quality of the product you intend to take.