Organic Licorice Powder
Also known as: Licorice, licorice root, Organic Licorice Powder, Glycyrrhiza glabra
Overview
Licorice powder is derived from the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, a plant native to Asia, Southern Europe, and the Middle East. It contains nearly 300 compounds, with glycyrrhizin as the primary active constituent responsible for its characteristic sweet taste and many of its biological effects. Traditionally, licorice has been used for a wide range of ailments, including respiratory issues, digestive problems, and as an anti-inflammatory agent. Modern research supports its use as an adjunct treatment for conditions such as sore throat, cough, and various forms of digestive discomfort. While some areas of its potential, like anticancer effects, are still under investigation and require further clinical validation, there is a growing body of evidence from clinical trials and systematic reviews supporting its efficacy in other areas. It is available in various forms, including powders, extracts, and lozenges, and its use should consider the concentration of glycyrrhizin.
Benefits
Licorice has demonstrated several evidence-based benefits. A 2018 systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials indicated that licorice consumption significantly reduced body weight and BMI in overweight patients, suggesting its potential role in weight management. For respiratory and sore throat relief, a meta-analysis of five randomized controlled trials showed that topical licorice applied before endotracheal intubation significantly reduced the incidence of postoperative sore throat by 56% and cough by 39%. In oral health, a randomized trial found that licorice combined with diphenhydramine solution accelerated the healing of aphthous ulcers. Furthermore, licorice compounds exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, contributing to its therapeutic potential across various conditions. Preclinical studies also suggest an anticancer potential, with compounds like licochalcone A showing the ability to induce apoptosis in cancer cells, though this benefit requires clinical validation.
How it works
The primary active compounds in licorice, particularly glycyrrhizin and its derivatives, exert their effects through multiple mechanisms. They modulate inflammatory pathways, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing oxidative stress, which contributes to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Licochalcone A, another key compound, has been shown to selectively inhibit JNK1 kinase activity, a pathway involved in cell proliferation, leading to apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in cancer cells. Glycyrrhizin also influences mineralocorticoid metabolism, which can affect blood pressure and electrolyte balance. These combined actions allow licorice to interact with various body systems, providing its diverse therapeutic effects.
Side effects
While generally safe in moderate amounts, licorice containing glycyrrhizin can cause significant adverse effects, especially with excessive or prolonged consumption. The most notable side effects are related to its impact on mineralocorticoid metabolism, which can lead to hypertension (elevated blood pressure), hypokalemia (low potassium levels), and edema (fluid retention). Common side effects, occurring in over 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort and headache. Less common effects (1-5%) involve elevated blood pressure and symptoms of hypokalemia. Rare but severe side effects (<1%) can include severe hypertension and cardiac arrhythmias. Licorice can interact with several medications, including diuretics, corticosteroids, antihypertensives, and any drugs that affect potassium levels, potentially exacerbating side effects or reducing drug efficacy. It is contraindicated in individuals with pre-existing conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, and during pregnancy due to the risk of preterm labor. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a processed form that has most of the glycyrrhizin removed, making it a safer option for long-term use or for individuals sensitive to glycyrrhizin's effects.
Dosage
Recommended dosages for licorice vary significantly depending on the specific indication and the form of licorice used, particularly its glycyrrhizin content. For metabolic effects, clinical trials have utilized standardized extracts where glycyrrhizin content is carefully controlled. For topical applications, such as for sore throat relief, licorice is often used as a gargle or lozenge, with specific concentrations applied prior to procedures like intubation. Oral doses for conditions like ulcer healing or cough relief have been explored in clinical trials, but exact dosages can vary by formulation and product. It is crucial to be aware of the maximum safe dose, especially concerning glycyrrhizin. Chronic intake exceeding 100 mg of glycyrrhizin per day is generally discouraged due to the risk of adverse effects like hypertension and hypokalemia. The timing and form of licorice administration should align with the intended therapeutic purpose, with common forms including powders, lozenges, topical gels, and oral solutions.
FAQs
Is licorice powder safe for long-term use?
Long-term use of licorice containing glycyrrhizin can lead to hypertension and electrolyte imbalances. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) forms, which have most of the glycyrrhizin removed, are generally considered safer for prolonged use.
Can licorice help with weight loss?
Yes, a meta-analysis of clinical trials suggests that licorice consumption can lead to modest reductions in body weight and BMI. However, it should be considered an adjunct and not a replacement for standard weight management strategies.
Does licorice treat cancer?
Preclinical studies show promising anticancer potential, particularly with compounds like licochalcone A. However, there is currently no conclusive clinical evidence to support licorice as a cancer treatment in humans.
How quickly does licorice relieve sore throat?
Topical licorice has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative sore throat when applied before intubation, indicating a relatively rapid effect in this context.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8703329/ – This review, incorporating in vitro and in vivo data, highlights that licochalcone A, a compound from licorice, selectively inhibits JNK1, leading to apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells. The study provides strong preclinical evidence for licorice's anticancer potential, though it emphasizes the need for clinical validation.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29433679/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that licorice consumption significantly reduced body weight and BMI in overweight patients. The study suggests a potential role for licorice in weight management, despite some heterogeneity in the included studies.
- https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/special-subjects/dietary-supplements/licorice – This source, referencing a meta-analysis of 5 RCTs involving 609 patients, reports that topical licorice significantly reduced postoperative sore throat incidence by 56% and cough by 39%. It provides strong evidence for licorice's efficacy in a perioperative setting.
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/licorice-root – This article provides a general overview of licorice root, discussing its traditional uses, potential health benefits, and safety considerations. It highlights the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of licorice compounds, contributing to its therapeutic potential.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.8288 – This source, likely a review or research paper, discusses the various compounds in licorice and their biological activities, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It supports the broad therapeutic potential of licorice through its diverse chemical constituents.
Supplements Containing Organic Licorice Powder
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.