Licorice, Common (Licorice Root, Spanish Licorice Root)

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Roots
Chemicals this herb contains:
Asparagine
Fat
Glycyrrhizin
Gum (See Glossary)
Pentacyclic terpenes
Protein
Sugar
Yellow dye

KNOWN EFFECTS

Decreases inflammation. Provides estrogen-like hormone effects. Decreases spasm of smooth muscle or skeletal muscle. Decreases thickness and increases fluidity of mucus from lungs and bronchial tubes.

Miscellaneous information:
WARNING: Consuming large amounts of licorice may lead to high blood pressure.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Protects scraped tissues. Softens or soothes skin. Treats coughs.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future. Have heart disease. Take diuretics.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Breast-feeding:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are under 45, not pregnant, basically healthy, take it for only a short time and do not exceed manufacturer's recommended dosage.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Rated slightly dangerous, particularly in children, persons over
55 and those who take larger than appropriate quantities for
extended periods of time.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS