Therapeutic Uses
- Colds, Coughs, and Sore Throats – Several studies support licorice’s traditional role as a cough remedy. Glycyrrhetinic acid has some cough-suppressant properties. In Europe, licorice is quite common in cough and cold formulas.
- Ulcers – Scientists discovered that they could retain licorice’s ulcer-healing benefits but eliminate its hormonal side effects by removing 97% of its glycyrrhetinic acid. This led to the creation of a new semi-herbal medicine, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL). In one 12 week study of people with duodenal ulcers, DGL healed ulcers faster than ulcer drug cimetidine (Tagamet).
- Canker Sores – In one study, people with canker sores used a DGL mouthwash. 75% of them experienced substantial relief after one day, with complete healing by the third day.
- Herpes – Licorice stimulates cell production of interferon, the body’s own antiviral compound. Herpes sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Some studies have shown that licorice inhibits its replication.
- Hepatitis – Studies have shown that the injectable licorice preparation, Stronger Neo-Minophagen C, can reduce the instances of liver cancer in those with hepatitis C. One study found that among those who didn’t receive injections, the survival rate was 31%. Among those treated with licorice, the survival rate jumped to 72%. These studies provide convincing evidence that licorice is a potent antiviral. The herb has also shown liver-protecting ability in people with cirrhosis as well as some action against influenza viruses and HIV.
- Other Infections – Licorice fights disease-causing bacteria (staphylococcus and streptococcus) and the fungus responsible for vaginal yeast infections (Candida albicans). Streptococcus mutans is a major cause of dental cavities. Licorice inhibits this bacterium. Rinsing the mouth with licorice tea might help prevent cavities.
- Menopausal Complaints – Women who were experiencing hot flashes were given an herbal formula containing equal parts of licorice, Chinese angelica, motherwort, burdock, and wild yam root. 100% of the women reported significant relief from their hot flashes.
Medicinal Uses: * Addiction * Anxiety * Bronchitis * Candida/yeast * Chinese * Colds * Congestion * Fatigue * IBS * Psoriasis * Sore Throat * Stop Smoking
Licorice Root Side Effects: Not for long term use without medical advice, the key to using licorice is moderation. Licorice root can elevate blood pressure, lower potassium and cause water retention. Not for those who have hypertension, kidney problems, diabetes or heart problems.
Licorice Root Drug Interactions: Licorice might increase the breakdown and decrease the effectiveness of warfarin (Coumadin), which might increase the risk of clotting. Be sure to have your blood checked regularly. The dose of your warfarin (Coumadin) might need to be changed. Large amounts of licorice can decrease potassium levels in the body. Low potassium levels can increase the side effects of digoxin (Lanoxin). Taking licorice along with estrogen pills (conjugated equine estrogens (Premarin), ethinyl estradiol, estradiol, and others) might decrease the effects of estrogen pills. Taking licorice and ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) together might cause potassium to become too low. Furosemide (Lasix) can also cause the body to get rid of potassium. Taking licorice and furosemide together might cause the potassium levels in your body to go too low. Taking licorice along with some medications for inflammation might decrease potassium in the body too much. Taking licorice along with “water pills” might decrease potassium in the body too much. Before taking licorice talk to your healthcare provider if you take any medications that are changed by the liver. By increasing blood pressure licorice might decrease the effectiveness of medications for high blood pressure.
