Asian Licorice Root
Also known as: Glycyrrhiza glabra, Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Asian Licorice Root, Chinese Licorice, Gan Cao
Overview
Asian Licorice Root, derived from *Glycyrrhiza uralensis*, is a botanical extract traditionally used in Asian medicine. Its key bioactive compound, glycyrrhizic acid, contributes to its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and hepatoprotective properties. It has been used for gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory conditions, and liver protection. Modern applications include liver health, ulcerative colitis management, and blood pressure modulation. The root contains flavonoids and polysaccharides, contributing to its therapeutic effects. Research includes randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, particularly focusing on liver disease, ulcerative colitis, and blood pressure effects. However, some clinical trials have small sample sizes and variations in formulations. It is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and topical applications.
Benefits
Asian Licorice Root offers several evidence-based benefits. It significantly improves liver health by reducing markers of liver fibrosis and inflammation, with meta-analyses showing a mean decrease in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) by approximately 18.12 U/L. Preclinical studies suggest potential therapeutic benefits for ulcerative colitis due to its anti-inflammatory effects. However, licorice intake can increase blood pressure, necessitating caution in hypertensive individuals. Topical application has been shown to reduce postoperative sore throat incidence and enhance burn wound healing. Patients with liver fibrosis, ulcerative colitis, and those undergoing surgery may benefit, while hypertensive or cardiovascular patients should exercise caution.
How it works
Asian Licorice Root's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways. It exerts anti-inflammatory effects by downregulating TGF-β1, Smad2, and Smad3 mRNA and protein expression, key mediators of fibrosis. It modulates the immune response and inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines in the gastrointestinal tract. Glycyrrhizic acid has mineralocorticoid-like effects, causing sodium retention and potassium loss, which can lead to increased blood pressure. Glycyrrhizic acid is metabolized by intestinal bacteria to glycyrrhetinic acid, which is absorbed and exerts systemic effects, influencing hepatic cells, gastrointestinal mucosa, and adrenal hormone pathways.
Side effects
While generally safe at recommended doses, Asian Licorice Root can cause adverse effects related to mineralocorticoid excess. Common side effects include hypertension, hypokalemia, and edema due to sodium retention. Uncommon side effects may include headache, fatigue, and muscle weakness. Rare side effects can include serious cardiac arrhythmias and, in extreme cases, rhabdomyolysis. It may interact with antihypertensives, diuretics, corticosteroids, and drugs affecting potassium levels. Contraindications include hypertension, heart failure, kidney disease, and pregnancy. Pregnant women, hypertensive patients, and those on potassium-depleting medications should avoid or use it with caution.
Dosage
Clinical trials vary, but glycyrrhizic acid doses around 50-200 mg daily have shown effects on liver markers. Typically, 100-200 mg of glycyrrhizic acid daily is used for liver support. Chronic intake above 100 mg glycyrrhizic acid/day may increase the risk of adverse effects. Oral doses are usually divided throughout the day, while topical use varies per clinical indication. Extract standardized to glycyrrhizic acid is preferred for consistency. Gut microbiota influence conversion to active metabolites, and potassium supplementation may be necessary to mitigate hypokalemia risk.
FAQs
Is Asian Licorice Root safe for long-term use?
Long-term use at high doses is not recommended due to the risk of hypertension and electrolyte imbalance. Short-term use under medical supervision is generally safer.
Can it be used for liver disease?
Yes, evidence supports its use in improving liver fibrosis markers, but it should be used under the guidance of a physician.
Does it raise blood pressure?
Yes, licorice can increase blood pressure due to mineralocorticoid effects; hypertensive patients should avoid it.
How quickly does it work?
Liver benefits may take weeks to months to observe. Topical effects, such as those for sore throat relief, can be more immediate.
Is it effective for ulcerative colitis?
Preclinical evidence is promising, but more human RCTs are needed to confirm its effectiveness for ulcerative colitis.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35671864/ – This systematic review of preclinical studies showed that licorice extract reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in ulcerative colitis models. While no large human RCTs have been conducted, the findings support further clinical research to explore its potential benefits for ulcerative colitis.
- https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/licorice-root – This summary from NCCIH highlights a double-blinded RCT demonstrating that topical licorice improved burn healing rates and reduced postoperative sore throat incidence. This supports the use of topical licorice for its anti-inflammatory properties in these contexts.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/21/3768 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials showed that licorice intake can increase blood pressure and cause metabolic changes related to mineralocorticoid activity. The review emphasizes the need for caution when considering licorice supplementation in hypertensive populations.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.8288 – This systematic review and meta-analysis included RCTs with patients having primary liver disease and found that licorice significantly improved liver function tests, especially ALT, with a mean reduction of 18.12 U/L. The authors noted limitations including the small number of RCTs and heterogeneity in disease types, but rated the quality as moderate to high.
- https://www.scielo.br/j/cta/a/8BkTCwd3yPd43tqdpQ3f9NQ/ – This meta-analysis analyzed four RCTs focusing on glycyrrhizic acid's effect on fibrosis markers TGF-β1 and Smads. The study found significant downregulation of fibrotic gene expression and improved biochemical markers, supporting the antifibrotic mechanism of glycyrrhizic acid, though sample sizes were modest.
Supplements Containing Asian Licorice Root
Recommended Articles
Boost Lung Health: Key Ingredients & Foods
Key ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and certain herbs promote better lung function and respiratory health.
Avoid These Ingredients Before Surgery
Certain ingredients, especially supplements that affect blood clotting, should be avoided before surgery to prevent complications.
Unsafe Supplements in Pregnancy 2025
In 2025, new research has led to updates in pregnancy supplement safety guidelines, identifying specific unsafe supplements.
ACE Inhibitors & Supplements: A Guide
Certain supplements, especially potassium-rich ones and specific herbs like St. John's Wort, can interfere with ACE inhibitors.