Licorice, a perennial native to Europe and Asia, has been used in Chinese herbal medicine for over 3,000 years. Licorice provides a variety of health effects and has been used to control respiratory infections and alleviate digestive disorders. Licorice also exerts significant effects on your adrenal glands and may increase the effects of cortisol. Only use licorice under the guidance and supervision of a health care practitioner trained in its use.
Cortisol Breakdown
Licorice doesn't act like cortisol, but it keeps your cortisol levels elevated by preventing the hormone from being broken down, according to Kathryn Simpson, M.S., author of "Overcoming Adrenal Fatigue: How to Restore Hormonal Balance and Feel Renewed, Energized and Stress Free." Licorice is available in teas and tinctures. Most licorice candies do not contain licorice but instead are made from a similar-tasting substance, anise, which does not offer the medicinal effects of licorice.
Blood Pressure
A study published in the May 2004 issue of the journal "Seminars in Vascular Medicine" found that licorice consumption inhibits an enzyme that converts cortisol to its inactive form. Cortisol then continues to activate receptors in your kidneys that cause them to retain sodium and release potassium. As a result, licorice increases blood pressure and can cause a condition known as hypokalemic hypertension.
Adrenal Fatigue
Taking adrenal supplements a half-hour before you go to bed may help you fall asleep and have more restful sleep, says chiropractor and naturopath James Wilson, Ph.D., in his book "Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome." Adrenal fatigue is often characterized by poor-quality, unrefreshing sleep, which contributes to other symptoms, including fatigue, anxiety, depression, joint pain, increased susceptibility to infections and allergies and decreased tolerance for stress.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Its anti-inflammatory effects make licorice a suitable treatment for various forms of arthritis and joint aches and pains. Licorice stimulates production of the hormone cortisone, a stress hormone similar to cortisol, which decreases inflammation. Adrenal fatigue, low blood sugar related to low adrenal function and Addison's disease, a type of chronic adrenal insufficiency, have all been treated with licorice. Cortisone also suppresses immune function, but licorice supports immune function by acting as an antibacterial and antiviral agent. Influenza, hepatitis and Epstein-Barr viruses all respond well to licorice supplementation, according to Dr. Michael Chillemi, author of "The Complete Herbal Guide: A Natural Approach to Healing the Body."
Cautions
Licorice can cause water retention and high blood pressure if you use a dose that is too high or if you use it longer than is needed. Licorice can also cause potassium depletion. Some men experience breast enlargement when they take licorice. Consult your doctor about using licorice, and only use this herb with your doctor's guidance and supervision.
References
- "Overcoming Adrenal Fatigue: How to Restore Hormonal Balance and Feel Renewed ..."; Kathryn Simpson; 2011
- "Seminars in Vascular Medicine"; Cortisol, 11Beta-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases, and Hypertension; S. Van Uum, et al.; May 2004
- "The Complete Herbal Guide: A Natural Approach to Healing the Body"; Stacey Chillemi, Michael Chillemi; 2007
- "The Everything Adrenal Fatigue Book: The Syndrome of Feeling Stressed-out!"; James M. Lowrance; 2011
