When you think of licorice, your first thought may be of those black jelly beans that you always threw away in favor of the more fruity flavors. But licorice root is an herb that contains many bioactive compounds, the most prominent being glycyrrhizic acid.
It has been used for centuries for its medicinal benefits, and it is available in many forms, including licorice extract, powder, and tea.
Although licorice root can be a healthy addition to your diet, it’s important to note that there is the possibility of too much of a good thing. “If excess licorice is consumed, it may lead to dangerously low potassium levels, which can lead to heart conditions as well as muscle weakness,” says Julie Upton, MS, RD.
The herb can be contraindicated for many people who have specific medical conditions or take certain medications that will interact with its bioactive compounds. For example, certain heart disease medications should not be taken with licorice, as well as individuals with some kidney conditions.”
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that for people over 40, eating two ounces of black licorice a day for at least two weeks could land you in the hospital, so limit the number of days you consume the herb and be sure not to consume more than two ounces at a time.
If you have a history of heart disease and/or high blood pressure, be sure to closely watch the amount you consume. Otherwise, licorice root is safe to eat and can be used to benefit many aspects of your health.
Read on to find out the health benefits of licorice.
“Licorice is often used for GI symptoms including heartburn, stomach ulcers, colitis, and gastritis or any inflammation of the lining of the stomach or upper GI tract,” says Upton. It is a soothing anti-inflammatory, so it can help protect against ulcerative disorders.
A small study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a safe and effective alternative to over-the-counter stomach ulcer medications.
If you’re someone who is stressed often, licorice root may help. In the medical journal Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, the herb was found to help the body more efficiently regulate the stress hormone cortisol.
One study published in the journal Food Chemistry found licorice to have “antioxidant, free-radical scavenging, immuno-stimulating” properties.
“Licorice is beneficial for the skin when used internally and externally,” says Park. “It helps to heal skin ailments such as eczema, psoriasis, inflammation, sunburn, persistent skin redness, and athlete’s foot.” Topical solutions with licorice extracts can be used in relieving swelling and itchy skin.
This multipurpose herb may also help keep your teeth and gums healthy. One study from the Journal of Natural Products found that licorice root contains two effective antibacterial compounds that can prevent the growth of bacteria connected with cavities and gum disease.
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