Could a common herbal extract truly help steady hormones, or is it just another wellness myth? This article cuts through the hype and shows what the science, tradition, and safety data actually say.
By Emily Carter, certified health and wellness writer – Fact-checked and reviewed by our editorial team.
We’ll explain how this plant works, where evidence is solid, and where questions remain. You’ll read about key compounds like glycyrrhizin, possible effects on menopause, menstrual pain, adrenal support, and digestive uses.
Safety matters: chronic high intake can raise blood pressure and lower potassium, so dosing and product choice—like DGL—are crucial. This guide also covers quality checks and when to avoid use.
For a focused review of clinical findings and practical dosing tips, see a trusted summary on benefits licorice root and then continue here for safe, evidence-aware guidance.
Key Takeaways
- Short-term use may offer hormonal and digestive relief for some people.
- Glycyrrhizin drives many effects but also the main risks.
- DGL products lower risk for long-term digestive support.
- Quality and third-party testing matter for supplements.
- Talk to your clinician if you have blood pressure or medication concerns.
What Is Licorice Root and Why It’s Trending Now
From ancient medicines to modern wellness shelves, Glycyrrhiza glabra keeps turning up where people seek gentle, plant-based support. Its sweet-tasting roots have long been used for coughs, digestion, and topical skin care, and today the herb appears in teas, tinctures, capsules, and serums.
From ancient Egypt through Asia and the Mediterranean, Glycyrrhiza glabra has a recorded history in traditional medicine. The genus name comes from Greek words meaning “sweet” and “root.”
Glycyrrhiza glabra: history and traditional use
The plant is a legume with sweet taproots rich in bioactive compounds. Traditional uses included cough relief, digestive support, and wound care. Modern interest ties those uses to current consumer goals like digestive comfort and skin brightening.
Licorice versus candy: what’s the difference?
Confectionery candy often adds sugar, binders, and flavors and may contain little to no actual herb. If you want therapeutic effects, choose a labeled extract or standardized product rather than candy.
- Main actives: glycyrrhizin and flavonoids drive the plant’s properties.
- Product forms: teas, capsules, lozenges, topical serums, and powders vary by absorption and convenience.
- Quality cue: standardized extracts and reputable brands help ensure safe, consistent potency.
Next, we’ll look at how those compounds work and what clinical studies reveal.
How Licorice Works: Key Compounds, Mechanisms, and “Hormonal” Pathways
The chemistry explains most measurable effects and the limits of common claims. Understanding key molecules helps you see where antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mild endocrine actions come from.
Which molecules do the work?
Core compounds include glycyrrhizin (a triterpene saponin) plus flavonoids such as glabridin, liquiritin, and licochalcone A. These compounds deliver antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity that underpins many reported uses.
Antioxidant and inflammation signaling
These molecules neutralize free radicals and support cell defenses, lowering oxidative stress that drives tissue irritation and premature aging.
They also modulate pathways linked to redness and discomfort across the gut and skin.
Stress axis, phytoestrogens, and microbes
Glycyrrhizin can slow cortisol breakdown, which may extend cortisol activity and alter perceived energy or stress resilience. That mechanism explains both potential positive effects and safety concerns.
Certain flavonoids weakly interact with estrogen receptors, so some people see symptom relief during menopause. Antimicrobial data and adjunct clinical work show activity against H. pylori and oral pathogens, supporting digestive and oral roles.
Nuance: Mechanistic plausibility exists, but outcomes depend on dose, product, and individual biology. For clinical summaries see the clinical review and a practical product guide.
Licorice Root Benefits for Hormonal Balance: What the Research Suggests
Clinical trials give cautious support for short-term symptom relief in some hormone-related complaints. Most data suggest modest, temporary improvements rather than lasting cures, and results vary by person and dose.
Menopause and hot flashes: evidence, limits, and expectations
A 2012 randomized trial in 90 menopausal women used 330 mg/day of licorice root and found fewer and less severe hot flashes while women took the herb. Symptoms returned after stopping, implying a short-term effect.
Practical note: some people may notice relief within weeks, but larger trials are needed to confirm consistent benefit.
Dysmenorrhea and inflammatory pain: how the herb may help
Small studies comparing an extract to ibuprofen showed comparable pain reduction in menstrual cramps. Anti-inflammatory flavonoids likely drive this effect.
Expect modest relief. Use alongside lifestyle measures—hydration, heat, and gentle movement—for best results.
Stress resilience: potential cortisol and mood effects
Animal research links glycyrrhizin to reduced anxiety-like behavior and changes in serotonin pathways. Human data are sparse, so claims that it boosts long-term stress resilience remain investigational.
“Short-term use may ease specific symptoms, but dosing and medical context matter.”
| Condition | Evidence Level | Typical Dose Reported | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hot flashes (menopause) | Small RCT | 330 mg/day | Reduced frequency/severity while used |
| Dysmenorrhea | Small comparative study | Extract doses vary | Modest pain relief vs. NSAID in short term |
| Stress/mood | Preclinical (animal) | Not established for humans | Possible anxiety reduction; human trials needed |
Bottom line: Research and clinical use suggest this plant extract may help some people with vasomotor symptoms, cramps, or transient stress. Track symptoms and discuss treatment choices with your clinician. For a practical clinical summary on adrenal and hormonal uses, see licorice root for adrenal support.
Licorice Root Benefits Beyond Hormones (Digestive, Skin, Respiratory, and Oral Health)
This extract shows consistent activity across several systems: gut comfort, skin tone, airway inflammation, and oral care. If you seek practical uses beyond hormonal claims, clinical work and lab data suggest clear, targeted roles.
The digestive effects are well studied. A 2017 trial in 58 adults found daily use reduced GERD symptoms more effectively than common antacids over two years. A 2016 study in 120 adults reported that adding a root extract to standard therapy improved H. pylori eradication after two weeks. For mild reflux, consider DGL chews before meals and track response for 2–4 weeks.
Skin and topical uses
Topical formulas with glabridin and liquiritin help lighten dark spots by modulating tyrosinase and dispersing excess pigment. Some creams eased eczema similarly to 1% hydrocortisone while adding antioxidant support to the skin barrier.
Respiratory and throat support
A comprehensive review links anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to airway benefits. Glycyrrhizin may boost bronchodilator effect in lab models and a soothing gargle can ease throat discomfort.
Oral health
Mouth rinses and lozenges reduced canker sore pain and size. Trials show promising activity against cavity bacteria, periodontitis pathogens, thrush, and mucositis—often matching standard care in small studies.
“Targeted, short-term use can relieve symptoms across several common conditions while minimizing systemic risk.”
| Condition | Evidence | Practical tip |
|---|---|---|
| GERD / dyspepsia | 2017 RCT: better than antacids | DGL chew before meals; review with clinician |
| H. pylori / ulcers | 2016 adjunct study: improved eradication | Use as adjunct under medical supervision |
| Skin (hyperpigmentation, eczema) | Topical trials: brightening & eczema relief | Apply creams for several weeks; add sunscreen |
| Oral lesions & cavity prevention | Rinse/lozenge studies: reduced sore size, antimicrobial | Short-term mouth rinse or lozenge; follow dental advice |
Safety note: keep use short-term for therapeutic aims and monitor blood pressure or swelling if you have cardiovascular risk.
Safety First: Side Effects, Risks, and Who Should Avoid Licorice
Some plant extracts can shift electrolytes and blood pressure, so clear rules help avoid harm. Know the main dangers and which people should skip these products.
How glycyrrhizin affects the body
Glycyrrhizin can act like a mineralocorticoid. It promotes sodium retention and potassium loss, which raises blood pressure and risks arrhythmia.
Serious side effects to watch for
- High blood pressure, swelling, and headache.
- Low potassium levels causing weakness, cramps, or palpitations.
- In severe cases: kidney failure, congestive heart failure, or pulmonary edema.
Who should avoid this extract?
Avoid use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Also skip if you have uncontrolled hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, edema, or baseline low potassium levels.
Drug interactions to know
This extract can interact with blood pressure meds, diuretics, blood thinners (eg, warfarin), ACE inhibitors/ARBs, NSAIDs, PPIs, and digoxin. Coordinate with your clinician before starting.
“Reserve licorice root for short courses, monitor blood pressure and potassium, and choose DGL forms if digestive support is the goal.”
Dosage, Forms, and Using Licorice Root Extract Safely
Choose the right form and dose to match your goals, because delivery method changes effect and safety. This short guide explains common formats, practical dosing ranges, and safety steps to reduce risk.
Which format fits you?
Products vary: tea and lozenges soothe; tinctures let you fine-tune dose; capsules and powders give consistent extracts; topical gels treat skin spots.
Why consider DGL?
DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) removes most glycyrrhizin and lowers mineralocorticoid risk. For reflux or indigestion, DGL tablets (eg, two 380 mg before meals) are a common, safer choice.
Evidence-informed dosing and safety
- Respiratory examples: 1–5 g dried powder TID, 2–5 ml tincture TID, or 250–300 mg extract TID in some reports.
- Limit glycyrrhizin to ≤100 mg/day per WHO guidance and keep use short-term.
- Choose third‑party tested products (USP, NSF, ConsumerLab) and read labels for standardized extract levels.
Monitor blood pressure, swelling, and energy, and stop if you see edema, cramps, or rising BP; consult a clinician for longer courses or if you take medications.
Practical tip: combine sensible dosing with trigger reduction, meal timing, and sleep hygiene to lower needed doses and improve outcomes.
How to Use Licorice in Real Life: Products, Routines, and Pro Tips
Whether you want clearer skin or gentler digestion, simple routines turn extracts into reliable tools. These practical steps show which products to pick, how to time them, and how to lower side effects.
Skin-care routines: serums, eczema creams, and sunscreen
Brightening routine: apply a serum with glabridin or liquiritin to dark spots each morning and night. Combine with vitamin C and broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to speed improvement safely.
Eczema care: choose creams that pair the extract with ceramides and soothing botanicals. Patch test first and layer over a moisturizer to protect the barrier.
Sunscreen adjunct: topical formulas add antioxidant protection but do not replace SPF.
Digestive and respiratory applications: tea timing, extracts, and best practices
Reflux support: sip licorice tea 20–30 minutes before meals or take DGL tablets before eating to soothe the esophagus. Avoid late-night meals and trigger foods for best results.
Throat & respiratory: warm tea or lozenges can coat the throat; pair with humidified air during flares. For long-term use, prefer DGL to lower mineralocorticoid risk.
- DIY spot care: mix a few drops of alcohol-free extract into aloe gel; test on a small patch.
- Oral comfort: brief mouth rinses or lozenges may reduce canker sore pain; keep routine short-term.
- Track and adjust: log skin changes, reflux events, and throat comfort to tweak timing and strength.
“Use short cycles, choose DGL for extended routines, and monitor blood pressure and swelling.”
| Use | Product | Timing | Practical tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brightening | Topical serum with glabridin | AM/PM | Combine with vitamin C + SPF |
| Eczema | Cream with extract + ceramides | As needed | Patch test; layer over moisturizer |
| Reflux | DGL tablet or tea | 20–30 min before meals | Avoid late meals; consult clinician |
| Throat comfort | Lozenge / warm tea | PRN (as needed) | Use humidifier; short-term use |
For a practical overview and safety notes on starting products, see a reliable guide on licorice root.
About the Author
Emily Carter is a certified health and wellness writer with over 7 years of experience in evidence-based fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle content. As the lead author of Go4HealthnFitness.com, she’s passionate about simplifying science-backed wellness advice for everyday readers. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her strength training, hiking, or exploring natural supplements that actually work.
Editorial Process Note
Our Commitment to Accuracy: This article was medically reviewed for accuracy and fact-checked by our editorial team.
Medical Disclaimer: The information in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Conclusion
This long-used botanical shows real, mechanism-backed promise for several common conditions when used carefully and short-term.Choose standardized products, consider DGL for ongoing digestive care, and track blood pressure and potassium while you use it.
Bottom line: licorice root offers credible potential across digestion, skin, oral care, and select hormonal symptoms when dosed responsibly.
Evidence outlook: current trials are encouraging for reflux, H. pylori support, eczema, oral comfort, and hot flash reduction, but larger studies will refine dosing and targets.
Safety-first: watch blood pressure and potassium, avoid chronic high-dose use, and consult your clinician if you take heart, BP, or blood‑thinning medications.
Practical next steps: start low, track outcomes, pick third‑party tested products, and read a concise review of the topic at the benefits of licorice root. Stop if swelling, cramps, or rising blood pressure occur.
FAQ
What is Glycyrrhiza glabra and where does it come from?
Glycyrrhiza glabra is the botanical name for a perennial plant native to the Mediterranean, Central Asia, and parts of the Middle East. It’s been used for centuries in traditional Chinese, Ayurvedic, and European herbal medicine for digestive, respiratory, and skin complaints. Modern products come from standardized extracts, teas, powders, and topical formulations.
How does the extract work in the body — what are the active compounds?
Key compounds include glycyrrhizin, glabridin, liquiritin, and licochalcone A. These act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, influence cortisol metabolism, and show antimicrobial activity. Together they modulate cellular inflammation, support mucosal healing, and can affect hormone-related pathways that influence symptoms like hot flashes or menstrual pain.
Can this plant really help with hormonal issues such as menopause symptoms?
Research suggests modest benefits for some menopausal symptoms, especially hot flashes and mood swings, likely via estrogen-like action of certain flavonoids and modulation of the stress axis. Evidence is mixed and effect sizes are usually small, so expect incremental improvements rather than dramatic cures. Always pair use with medical advice for hormone therapy decisions.
How might it affect stress and cortisol levels?
Compounds in the extract can inhibit the enzyme 11β-HSD2, which alters cortisol metabolism and may increase cortisol activity. This can temporarily support stress resilience, energy, and mood, but prolonged effects may disrupt electrolyte balance and blood pressure. Short-term, monitored use shows the most favorable risk–benefit profile.
Is there a difference between herbal extract and licorice candy for health?
Yes. Candy often contains sweeteners, artificial flavors, and little to no therapeutic compounds. Medicinal extracts and DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) products provide standardized active constituents or remove glycyrrhizin to reduce side effects. For health goals, choose a product with clear labeling and standardized extract concentrations.
Can it help digestive conditions like GERD or peptic ulcers (including H. pylori)?
Evidence supports soothing effects on mucous membranes and possible adjunctive benefit for peptic ulcers and reflux; certain compounds show activity against H. pylori in lab studies. Deglycyrrhizinated formulations are often used for GI relief to lower the risk of systemic adverse effects. Use as part of a comprehensive plan with a clinician.
What skin benefits may users expect from topical products?
Topical extracts can reduce inflammation, brighten hyperpigmentation, and calm eczema-prone skin thanks to glabridin and licochalcone A’s antioxidant and tyrosinase-inhibiting actions. They work well in serums and creams as adjuncts to sunscreen and established eczema treatments, not as sole therapy for severe conditions.
Are there antimicrobial effects relevant to oral and respiratory health?
Yes. Laboratory and some clinical studies show activity against oral pathogens, Candida species, and bacteria linked to periodontal disease. Lozenges and mouthwashes with standardized extracts may help soothe sore throats and support oral mucosa, but they don’t replace dental care or prescribed antimicrobials when needed.
What are the main safety concerns and side effects?
The primary risk is glycyrrhizin accumulation, which can cause high blood pressure, fluid retention, low potassium (hypokalemia), and cardiac arrhythmias. Other issues include headaches and hormonal interactions. Short-term use is generally safer; long-term or high-dose intake raises the risk of serious adverse effects.
Who should avoid using this herb or its extracts?
Avoid if pregnant, breastfeeding, or living with uncontrolled hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, or severe electrolyte disturbances. Also skip use if you take blood thinners, diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or digoxin without explicit medical approval, due to interaction risks.
How do drug interactions occur and which medications are risky?
Interactions arise from effects on blood pressure, potassium, and drug-metabolizing enzymes. Risky combinations include antihypertensives, diuretics, digoxin, warfarin, NSAIDs, and some proton pump inhibitors. Always check with a pharmacist or clinician before combining with prescription medications.
What forms are available and how should I choose between them?
Common forms include teas, tinctures, capsules, powders, lozenges, and topical gels or serums. Choose based on your goal: DGL products for digestive comfort, topical serums for pigmentation or eczema, and standardized oral extracts for systemic effects. Prioritize products with clear dosing and third-party testing.
What is DGL and when is it recommended?
DGL stands for deglycyrrhizinated licorice, a formulation with glycyrrhizin removed to reduce the risk of hypertension and hypokalemia while preserving mucosal benefits. It’s often recommended for long-term digestive support or for people who want GI relief but must avoid glycyrrhizin-related side effects.
Are there evidence-based dosing guidelines?
Dosing varies by form and standardization. Clinical trials often use short-term oral extracts standardized for glycyrrhizin or specific flavonoids, while DGL lozenges are used multiple times daily for GI symptoms. Because of safety concerns, follow product labels and consult a clinician for personalized dosing—avoid prolonged high-dose use.
What practical tips help minimize risks when using these products?
Use standardized, third-party tested products; prefer DGL for chronic GI use; limit duration of high-dose oral use; monitor blood pressure and electrolytes if taking regularly; and inform your clinician about all supplements. Stop use and seek medical care if you experience swelling, dizziness, severe headache, or palpitations.
Can athletes or fitness enthusiasts use it safely?
Some find short-term use helpful for stress resilience and recovery, but athletes should be cautious because glycyrrhizin can alter electrolyte balance and blood pressure, affecting performance and safety. Check with a sports medicine clinician, especially if you use performance supplements or compete under medical checks.
How should I incorporate topical products into a skincare routine?
Apply serums or creams with standardized extracts to clean skin, follow with moisturizer, and always use sunscreen during the day. For eczema, use as an adjunct to prescribed therapies; for hyperpigmentation, combine with broad-spectrum SPF and consider professional guidance for combined treatments like chemical peels or retinoids.
Where can I find reliable studies and guidance on safety?
Look for peer-reviewed research on PubMed, clinical guidance from the NIH and Mayo Clinic, and product safety data from .gov or .edu sources. Seek clinicians who reference evidence-based reviews and avoid sources that rely on anecdote or unverified claims.
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