Licorice Root Extract
Licorice Root Extract
Snapshot
Licorice Root Extract is a concentrated herbal supplement from Glycyrrhiza glabra roots, offering anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and adrenal-supporting properties.
What is Licorice Root Extract?
Licorice Root Extract is derived from the dried root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, standardized to glycyrrhizin and flavonoids that modulate hormone balance and immune response.
Where It Comes From
Harvested from perennial Glycyrrhiza glabra plants, licorice roots are dried and processed via aqueous or alcohol extraction, then concentrated into powders, capsules, or tinctures.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Active constituents include glycyrrhizin, liquiritin, glabridin, and various flavonoids, which contribute to cortisol modulation, gastric mucosal protection, and antioxidant activity.
Health Benefits
Licorice Root Extract supports adrenal gland function under stress; soothes gastrointestinal inflammation; enhances antiviral defenses; and promotes healthy skin through its anti-inflammatory effects.
Recommended Dosage
Standardized extracts (glycyrrhizin 20%) are typically dosed at 100–200 mg daily; deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) for GI health uses 380–760 mg chews or tablets before meals.
How to Use It
Take with water or juice in capsule form, or chew DGL tablets 20 minutes before meals. Cycle use in 4– to 6–week intervals to minimize potential side effects.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals under chronic stress, those with mild gastric discomfort, or anyone seeking natural support for adrenal health and immune resilience; avoid high-dose long-term use.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Excessive glycyrrhizin can cause sodium retention, potassium loss, hypertension, and edema; contraindicated with hypertension, heart or kidney disease; consult a healthcare provider for long-term use.
Final Thoughts
Licorice Root Extract offers multifaceted support for stress adaptation, digestive comfort, and immune health, but should be used with caution regarding dosage and duration.
Scientific Studies
Armanini D, et al. The effect of licorice on blood pressure in healthy subjects. J Endocrinol Invest. 2003;26(7):626–631. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03344093
Wang Z, et al. Antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects of licorice root extract in vitro and in vivo. Phytomedicine. 2015;22(11):1010–1019. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2015.07.004
Van Dyke K, et al. Clinical trial on deglycyrrhizinated licorice for functional dyspepsia. Am J Gastroenterol. 1998;93(10):1993–1998. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1572-0241.1998.00200.x