Respiratory: Colds, sore throat, bronchitis, cough, flu, RSV, phlegm, expectorant, decongestant, NIH studies: May provide some support for COVID-19

Cardiovascular: May help normalize blood pressure in people who have low blood pressure

Gastrointestinal: Stomach/gastric and duodenal ulcers (German Commission E), heartburn, antacid, ongoing gastritis, liver support, food poisoning, cavities, periodontal issues, acid reflux (GERD), canker sores, IBS, laxative

Genitourinary: Menopausal support, fertility in PCOS (in combination with other herbals)

Musculoskeletal: Osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, hypertonia, muscle cramps

Neurologic: Chronic fatigue

Skin: Abscesses, rash, bleeding, eczema (topical application), HSV

Cholesterol: Supports healthy cholesterol

Glucose: May support healthy glucose levels (when high)

Cancer: Possible anticancer activity per NIH studies, particularly may help in prostate cancer

Infectious Disease: Possibly malaria, Tb, HIV, SARS

Other: Addison's, SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus), hyperkalemia, adrenal gland function (in combination with other plants), familial Mediterranean fever (in combination with other plants, may help induce weight loss).

                                                        *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Higher doses may cause sodium and water retention, fatigue, high blood pressure, low potassium, weakness, irregular heartbeat (with lowered potassium), myoglobinuria (rare), may worsen erectile dysfunction, shortness of breath and congestive heart failure (rare)

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Gallbladder/liver problems, including cirrhosis, kidney disease, hypokalemia (low potassium), kidney insufficiency, and hypertonia (increased muscle tone), may cause hypertension. Not recommended in those with heart disease, heart failure, ED (licorice can lower testosterone), diabetes, some hormone-related cancers, edema/swelling (fluid retention), and simultaneous use of grapefruit. Avoid with some herbal supplements

Caution with certain medications:

• Licorice products should not be used if you are taking angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (medications ending in "pril") or diuretics for high blood pressure.

• Digoxin. 

• Corticosteroids. 

• Insulin or drugs for diabetes. 

• Laxatives. 

• MAO inhibitors. 

• Oral contraceptives. 

• Warfarin (Coumadin).

• Diuretics (may lower potassium)

• Paclitaxel

• Methotrexate

• Medications metabolized by P450 (CYP2C9),  and P450 (CYP 3A4)

• Medications metabolized by P-glycoprotein substrates

CHECK FOR POTENTIAL INTERACTIONS BEFORE USING

Note: Licorice may interfere with some lab tests

FORM: Licorice- capsules, gels, patches, extract, tea, powder, tablets, candies, mouthwash, creams, sprays

Recommended Brands

• Nature's Way® DGL Chewable Tablets (with glycine) — NSF certified — (order through Fullscript link here)

I only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—like those to Amazon—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support this free site. Many products also offer discounts, fast shipping, and helpful reviews.

Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Be sure to purchase real licorice products—many “licorice‑flavored” items use anise instead of true licorice. The percentage of actual licorice in supplements varies widely by product.

Traditional herbal practices describe the use of licorice in capsule, extract, tea, topical, or chewable form. Modern commercial products vary significantly in strength and formulation, so traditional amounts may not apply to current products. Many people use licorice or DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) for digestive comfort, throat soothing, or general wellness, but evidence varies and product strengths differ.

Topical gels and mouth rinses are used in some consumer products for short‑term support. These reflect traditional and consumer practices rather than standardized clinical recommendations.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to herbal dosing on the Epocrates website.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

Licorice root has been used traditionally for digestive comfort, throat soothing, and general wellness. Traditional practices describe the use of teas, powders, extracts, and later standardized DGL preparations. These uses are based on historical and consumer experience rather than strong clinical evidence.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Note: Many black licorice products sold in the U.S. are flavored with anise rather than real licorice. Check labels carefully if you are seeking true licorice.

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant or nursing a baby, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.