Licorice supplements: benefits, risks, and how to use them safely
Licorice supplements are an old remedy that people still use for indigestion, sore throat, and cough. They come in many forms and strengths, and that matters. Used correctly, licorice can help with mild digestive upset and throat irritation. Used carelessly, it can cause high blood pressure, low potassium and serious heart issues. Read this before you buy or take any licorice product.
First, know the two main types. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) has the active glycyrrhizin removed. DGL is gentler and safer for long‑term use, and many people use it as chewables for ulcers or heartburn. Whole‑root licorice or standard extracts keep glycyrrhizin. Those can reduce inflammation and ease mucus, but they also affect hormones and electrolytes and can trigger side effects at higher doses or with long use.
How to use licorice the smart way
If you want digestive support, pick DGL chewables and follow the label—common dosing is one 380 mg chewable before meals, but follow product instructions. For whole‑root extracts, limit short courses to a week or two unless a clinician supervises you. Monitor blood pressure while using whole licorice, and stop if you notice swelling, headaches, or sudden weight gain. If you plan to use any licorice regularly, ask your doctor for a simple blood test to check potassium levels.
Who should avoid licorice
Avoid whole‑root licorice if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney problems, or low potassium. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid it too. Also be cautious if you take medications like diuretics, ACE inhibitors, spironolactone, digoxin, or certain blood pressure drugs—licorice can interact and change how these medications work. If you’re unsure, check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting.
When choosing a supplement, look for third‑party testing like USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab. Pick DGL if you want a safer option for daily digestive use. For whole‑root extracts, check if the label lists glycyrrhizin content and choose lower amounts. Avoid products with lots of added sugar or unclear ingredient lists. Keep the receipt and batch number in case of recalls.
Practical tips: start with the lowest effective dose and track your blood pressure. Keep a short diary of symptoms—if you get muscle cramps, weakness, palpitations, or swelling, stop and seek medical advice. Use licorice more like a medicine than a harmless herb. For related reading on fluid balance and herbal options, see our guides on managing edema without furosemide and herbal alternatives to Lasix. Those articles explain how supplements and lifestyle changes affect fluid and electrolyte balance—useful if you’re thinking about whole‑root licorice.
Licorice can help, but it can also harm. Choose the right form, follow dosing guidance, watch your numbers, and check with a healthcare pro when needed. That keeps the benefits while cutting the risk.