Licorice Root: Evidence, Side Effects & Interactions

Licorice has a long history of traditional use, but NCCIH says there is not enough high-quality evidence to clearly support licorice for any health condition.

Safety deserves attention

Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which can cause serious adverse effects when consumed in large amounts or long term. NCCIH highlights additional risk for some people with hypertension, heart or kidney conditions, and reports interactions with corticosteroids.

If a product contains licorice, determine whether glycyrrhizin is present and discuss the product with a health professional if you take medicines or have relevant health conditions.