Licorice is an herb, the root of which is used in herbal medicine to treat heartburn, stomach ulcers, muscle cramps, eczema, hepatitis and other conditions. Licorice candy may also contain licorice, but in the United States it is more common for manufacturers to use anise oil instead. Speak with your doctor before using licorice root, as it is not safe for everyone to consume licorice in medicinal amounts.
Coumadin
Coumadin, also called warfarin, is a blood thinner that inhibits vitamin K's effects on blood clotting. This increases the length of time it takes for your blood to clot, lowering your risk for heart attack and stroke. However, you have to maintain a steady vitamin K consumption while on Coumadin, and it may interact with certain medications and supplements.
Licorice and Coumadin Interaction
You should not take both licorice and Coumadin at the same time. Although licorice contains coumarin, which can be transformed into an anticoagulant, licorice does not have an anti-clotting effect. In fact, licorice can increase the rate at which Coumadin is cleared from the body, decreasing the effectiveness of Coumadin and increasing your risk for blood clots.
Licorice Side Effects and Safety
Licorice contains a substance called glycyrrhizin, which can cause side effects including lethargy, muscle pain, high blood pressure, low potassium, bloating, decreased libido, headache and irregular heartbeat. Taking DGL, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice, can limit these side effects while still providing beneficial effects. Licorice is not safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding or people with liver or kidney problems, heart disease, high blood pressure or hormone-sensitive conditions.
Considerations
Licorice is not safe for everyone, including people who take Coumadin. Tell your doctor about all the medications and supplements you take, and don't self treat any condition using licorice. Follow the treatment prescribed by your doctor, as the evidence regarding licorice and beneficial health effects is still preliminary and contradictory.
