Licorice is a flavoring agent and dietary supplement derived from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant. Despite its sweet flavor and innocuous-sounding name, whole licorice can cause serious health problems when consumed in excess. Learning about the health effects of licorice is necessary for avoiding complications.
Uses
Licorice is an herbal substance valued for its sweet flavor and medicinal benefits. Traditionally, licorice root has been used to treat digestive symptoms, sore throat, bronchitis and many other maladies. Traditionally, its unique flavor made it a popular flavoring ingredient in food and medicine, though it is rarely used for this purpose today. Glycyrrhizin -- a compound found in whole licorice -- can cause serious health problems when consumed frequently or in large amounts.
Side Effects and Complications
Licorice root is generally considered safe in small amounts, such as those found in some foods or beverages. In large or frequent doses, whole licorice lowers the amount of potassium in the blood, which can lead to dangerous side effects. Medline Plus lists high blood pressure, paralysis, weakness or brain damage as possible complications of licorice consumption. While healthy people can usually tolerate up to 30 g per day for several weeks, those with high blood pressure, kidney or heart disease may experience negative effects from as little as 5 g. Other potential side effects include fatigue, water retention, headache and missed menstrual periods in women.
Application
Fortunately, licorice can be used safely in most instances by following a few basic safety precautions. To reduce the risk of lowered potassium, don't use licorice daily for more than two weeks. Ask your doctor before using whole licorice if you have high blood pressure, kidney disease or heart disease, and avoid it altogether if you're pregnant or take the blood-thinning drug warfarin, also known as Coumadin. Follow dosing directions closely and stop using licorice if you experience symptoms like muscle weakness or rapid heartbeat. To prevent dangerous interactions, ask your doctor before taking licorice if you take other over-the-counter supplements or medications.
Considerations
Most of the negative health effects associated with licorice are thought to be caused by glycyrrhizin. Deglycyrrhizin licorice, or DGL, is considered much safer for frequent use. According to health information website eMedTV, many licorice-flavored candies and beverages contain the herb anise, rather than actual licorice, making them safe for regular use. To determine whether a product contains licorice, check the ingredient label or contact the manufacturer.
Member Comments