Licorice has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes and as a sweet flavoring. Its active component, glycyrrhiza, is 50 times sweeter than sugar but can cause side effects. Licorice may have some health benefits, but evidence is conflicting. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice has fewer side effects. People should consult with their doctors before taking licorice or DGL, as it can interact with other medications. The FDA does not regulate licorice medications, so people should read package labels carefully.
Licorice, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been used medically for centuries, as well as the plant’s flavor and sweetness. In addition to being the generic name for licorice, glycyrrhiza, which is derived from a Greek word meaning “sweet root,” is the component of licorice that makes the plant taste so sweet, 50 times sweeter than table sugar. normal refined. Glycyrrhiza may be responsible for some of the side effects induced by licorice consumption in humans. People taking deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) don’t seem to get the same side effects.
Glycyrrhiza glabra, native to China and the Mediterranean area, has a long history. Licorice users included the Egyptian pharaoh King Tutankhamen (1341 BC to c. 1323 BC), who had liquorice stored in his tomb for use in his afterlife. Other historical supporters of licorice included Alexander the Great (356 to 323 BC), Julius Caesar (100 BC to 44 BC), and Napoleon Bonaparte (1769 to 1821). Traditional uses for licorice include treating digestive problems, coughs, urinary tract problems, and sore throats. Also, licorice was used to prolong life, treat cough and diabetes.
Licorice contains several healthy ingredients, such as vitamin B complex, vitamin E, and lecithin. Additionally, licorice may have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Glycyrrhizin itself can reduce inflammation.
Science does not fully support licorice’s health claims, although there is relatively good evidence that licorice can treat infections. Evidence that licorice can treat viral infections, Addison’s disease, and HIV and that deglyrizinated licorice can treat thrush, gastrointestinal bleeding, or gastroesophageal reflux disease is conflicting or insufficient. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice may not have any real effect on indigestion or heartburn. Additionally, licorice may not have an impact on asthma, shingles, or menopause.
Side effects of licorice can include increased blood pressure and water retention, and licorice can have an effect on serum testosterone levels. Other side effects can include electrolyte imbalances and temporary vision loss. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice does not cause many of the side effects that “regular” licorice does. People who are interested in taking licorice or deglycyrrhizinated licorice should consult their doctors before trying this substance. In addition to possible side effects, licorice can interact with drugs and other herbal or natural medications.
In addition to consulting with their doctors, people should carefully read package labels before making a purchase. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate licorice medications. There are no industry standards for the quality and strength of these products.
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