Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Botanical
Also known as: Glycyrrhiza glabra, DGL (deglycyrrhizinated), Licorice extract
B
Grade B💊 200-400mg standardized extract (non-DGL) for short periods🎯 4 primary uses🔗 1 synergy⚠️ Review warnings
Overview
Traditional antiviral herb with glycyrrhizin compound showing activity against multiple viruses.
Primary Uses
AntiviralAdrenal supportSore throatDigestive support
Dosage
Typical range
200-400mg standardized extract (non-DGL) for short periods
Timing
With meals
With food
Yes
Duration
Short-term only (2-4 weeks) for whole extract
Special Populations
Those with viral infections, adrenal fatigue
Mechanism of Action
- • Glycyrrhizin has antiviral activity
- • Supports adrenal function
- • Soothes mucous membranes
- • Anti-inflammatory effects
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade B
Traditional use with in vitro antiviral evidence
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • Raises blood pressure and causes potassium loss
- • Hypokalemia risk
- • Pseudoaldosteronism
Contraindications
- • Hypertension
- • Heart disease
- • Kidney disease
- • Hypokalemia
- • Pregnancy
Common Side Effects
- • Edema
- • Headache
- • Fatigue
- • Elevated blood pressure
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Avoid whole extract - associated with preterm birth
Liver & Kidney Notes
Avoid with liver or kidney disease
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • Diuretics (potassium loss)
- • Blood pressure meds (opposes)
- • Corticosteroids
- • Digoxin
🧪 Supplements
- • Deplete potassium
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • No significant interactions
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Other antivirals short-term
Avoid Combining With
Potassium-depleting drugsBP medications
Best Goal Synergies
Antiviral (short-term)Adrenal (short-term)Digestive (DGL)
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • DGL for digestive/long-term
- • Glycyrrhizin content if using whole
- • Short-term use only for whole
Standardization Markers
Glycyrrhizin contentOr 'DGL' for digestive
Adulteration risk
Low
Practical Notes
- • DGL form safe for long-term digestive use
- • Whole extract short-term only
- • Monitor blood pressure
Tags
antiviraladrenaldigestivetraditional
Frequently Asked About Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
How much Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) should I take?
The typical effective range is 200-400mg standardized extract (non-DGL) for short periods. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)?
With meals. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) with food?
Yes.
Does Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Diuretics (potassium loss), Blood pressure meds (opposes), and Corticosteroids. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra).
What does Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) pair well with?
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) stacks well with Other antivirals short-term — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)?
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) should be avoided or used with caution by people with Hypertension, Heart disease, and Kidney disease. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)?
Most people tolerate Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) well. The most commonly reported side effects are Edema, Headache, and Fatigue. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.