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

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: Addisons, SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus), hyperkalemia, adrenal gland function (in combination with other plants), familial Mediterranian 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

No recommended brand at this time

DOSAGES: As directed

Reported doses - May NOT be supported by evidence (reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E, NIH publications). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.

Be sure to get real licorice - there are plenty of impostors using anise for the licorice flavoring.

The percent of licorice in a product varies by product  (1%-12%)

• Topical Gel 1-2% for up to 2 weeks

• Mouth rinse - up to 1 week (swish/spit)

• 100-990 mg orally for 2-24 weeks.

Some sources say you can take it up to four weeks- depending on many factors. Check with a healthcare provider.

Note: Many black licorice goods sold over the counter in the US are not licorice. They get their licorice flavor from anise. Check before you buy it.

*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.