Licorice
Also known as: Glycyrrhiza glabra, Glycyrrhiza uralensis, licorice root, liquorice, glycyrrhizin, glycyrrhizic acid, liquiritin, isoliquiritigenin
Effective Dosage
1.5 g/day extract (oral); topical doses vary by application
What the Science Says
Licorice is a root plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra) used in traditional medicine and now studied for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Clinical trials suggest it may help reduce allergy symptoms when used as a nasal spray, improve gum health when applied locally, and support metabolic markers like blood sugar and cholesterol in women with PCOS when combined with a low-calorie diet. Its active compounds — including glycyrrhizic acid, liquiritin, and isoliquiritigenin — appear to work by dampening inflammatory signaling pathways, though most studies are small and short-term.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to treat any disease on its own. No evidence it works as a standalone weight-loss supplement. The metabolic benefits seen in PCOS trials were combined with a calorie-restricted diet — licorice alone didn't do the heavy lifting. Animal and lab studies on pain and skin protection are promising but don't translate directly to humans yet. Don't assume 'natural' means safe at any dose.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Licorice has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it beneficial for digestive health and soothing gastrointestinal issues. It may also support respiratory health and has been used traditionally for its potential to alleviate sore throat and cough symptoms.
Strong EvidenceEffective at: 300-600 mg daily
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic data provided in the reviewed studies. Topical and nasal spray forms bypass first-pass metabolism; oral extract absorption is not characterized in these papers.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Glycyrrhizic acid can raise blood pressure and lower potassium levels (hypokalemia) — a risk flagged even in the provided studies
- Dose standardization is poorly defined across products; the same 'licorice extract' label can mean very different concentrations
- Most human trials are small (20–130 participants) and short (1–8 weeks) — long-term safety is not established
- Animal and lab findings (pain relief, skin protection) are frequently overhyped in marketing but have no human trial support yet
- Licorice may interact with blood pressure medications, diuretics, and corticosteroids — consult a doctor before use
Products Containing Licorice
See how Licorice is used in these analyzed products:
AG1 (Athletic Greens)
Supplement
Nature's Answer Licorice Root Extract
Supplement
Vital GUT RENEW Powder
Supplement
Holiss Daily Gut Health Supplement
Supplement
Emma
Supplement
More Labs Morning Recovery
Supplement
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-06