Aldosterone is a steroid hormone released by the adrenal gland. It is responsible for increasing the absorption of water and sodium in the kidneys, which scientists have determined also increases blood volume and blood pressure. Preliminary studies suggest that licorice, used medicinally and as a flavoring for centuries, may mimic the effects of aldosterone and potentially suppress aldosterone production.
Licorice Active Compounds
Licorice contains numerous active constituents; however scientists believe glycyrrhizin is the primary compound responsible for this herb's biologic activity. While this compound may cause a reaction in your body, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests this chemical may have serious side effects. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice contains similar active compounds as standard licorice, but the potentially harmful glycyrrhizin compound is removed. Other active compounds found in licorice include flavonoids, amino acids and plant sterols.
Effects on Aldosterone
A study published in the October 2000 issue of "The Pharmaceutical Society of Japan" suggests the consumption of licorice may increase internal cortisol production and cause an aldosterone-like effect, such as increasing blood volume and blood pressure. The effect on actual aldosterone, however, was not noted in the study. The "Journal of Endocrinological Investigation" found supplementation with licorice actually suppressed aldosterone in participants. While initial research is conflicting, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center states adverse side effects of licorice include hyperaldosteronism, which is when the adrenal glands release excessive amounts of aldosterone.
Who Should Avoid Licorice
Due to the effects licorice has on your body, if you have heart failure, heart disease, diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease and high blood pressure, do not supplement with licorice. Women who are pregnant or lactating should not consume licorice, and no one should consume licorice for more than six weeks.
Considerations
The risk of developing adverse side effects of licorice is largely contributed to your daily intake. Consuming more than 20 g of licorice per day can potentially raise aldosterone levels in your blood. This increase in aldosterone may result in headaches, heart problems and high blood pressure. Even though the risk of adverse effects is greater in large doses, side effects may occur in average dosage. Discuss the use of licorice with your physician even if you are in perfect health.
References
- MedlinePlus; Aldosterone; Rober Cooper, M.D., et al.; July 2009
- Adrenals Web: What Is Aldosterone
- "The Pharmaceutical Society of Japan" Journal; A Drug Over the Millennia: Pharmacognosy, Chemistry, and Pharmacology of Licorice; S. Shibata; October 2000
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Licorice; Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D.; March 2010
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Licorice; October 2010
- Ray Sahelian, M.D.; Licorice Root Supplement Extract Health Benefit; Ray Sahelian, M.D.
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