Also known as: Glycyrrhiza glabra, Liquorice, Gan Cao
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) contains glycyrrhizin and flavonoids with anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and adrenal-supportive properties. It is widely used in traditional medicine but requires caution due to its potential to raise blood pressure through mineralocorticoid activity.
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been used medicinally for over 4,000 years across Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Western herbal traditions. Its primary bioactive compound, glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acid), is metabolized to glycyrrhetinic acid, which inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), the enzyme that inactivates cortisol. This results in increased cortisol activity at mineralocorticoid receptors, which can raise blood pressure, cause sodium retention, and deplete potassium. While this mechanism poses safety concerns at high doses, it is therapeutically exploited for adrenal support and anti-inflammatory effects. Licorice root also contains flavonoids (liquiritigenin, glabridin) with antioxidant, estrogenic, and gastroprotective properties. Clinical and preclinical evidence supports its use for upper gastrointestinal complaints, sore throat, and as an adjunct in adrenal fatigue protocols. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) removes glycyrrhizin, eliminating the blood-pressure-raising effect while retaining mucosal-protective benefits. Standard licorice root supplements should be used with caution, particularly in patients with hypertension or those taking antihypertensive medications.
DGL and whole licorice root have shown gastroprotective effects by enhancing mucosal defense, increasing mucus production, and inhibiting Helicobacter pylori growth in clinical and preclinical studies.
Glycyrrhizin and its metabolites inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce NF-κB activation. Licorice is traditionally used and clinically studied for sore throat and upper respiratory inflammation.
By inhibiting 11β-HSD2, glycyrrhizin prolongs cortisol activity, which may benefit individuals with adrenal insufficiency or chronic fatigue. This mechanism requires careful dose management.
2–3 times daily before meals
DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is preferred for gastrointestinal use as it avoids the blood-pressure-raising effects of glycyrrhizin.
Divided into 2–3 doses with meals
Limit continuous use to 4–6 weeks. Monitor blood pressure and potassium levels. Avoid in hypertension.
Gastrointestinal relief without blood pressure effects
Anti-inflammatory and adrenal support (short-term)
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