What are the symptoms of licorice allergy. How can licorice consumption affect your health. What are the potential side effects of licorice root extract. How to manage licorice allergy and avoid complications.

Understanding Licorice Allergy: Causes and Symptoms

Licorice allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies proteins in licorice as harmful substances, triggering an allergic reaction. While the exact reasons why some individuals develop this allergy remain unclear, both genetic predisposition and environmental factors likely play a role.

Common symptoms of licorice allergy include:

• Hives or skin rash
• Facial swelling, particularly of the lips, tongue, or throat
• Breathing difficulties or wheezing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Headache
• Low blood pressure

Is it possible to develop a licorice allergy later in life? Yes, individuals can develop allergies to licorice at any age, even if they’ve consumed it without issues in the past. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming licorice, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

The Health Impact of Licorice: Beyond Allergies

While licorice allergies affect a small portion of the population, the consumption of licorice and its extracts can have wider health implications. Licorice root extract, commonly used in candies and beverages, may cause several side effects when consumed in excess.

Short-Term Effects of Licorice Consumption

Even in the absence of an allergy, consuming licorice can lead to various short-term effects:

• Elevated blood pressure
• Headaches
• Gastrointestinal issues (diarrhea, constipation, vomiting)
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

Why does licorice consumption lead to these effects? The active compound in licorice, glycyrrhizin, can interfere with the body’s hormonal balance, particularly affecting aldosterone levels. This interference can lead to fluid retention and increased blood pressure.

Long-Term Health Concerns

Prolonged or excessive consumption of licorice can result in more serious health issues:

1. Hormonal imbalances
2. Complications during pregnancy, including potential harm to the fetus
3. Increased risk of miscarriage

How much licorice is too much? While individual tolerance varies, consuming more than 57 grams of black licorice daily for two weeks or longer can lead to potentially serious side effects in adults.

Licorice Root Extract: Balancing Benefits and Risks

Licorice root extract has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, praised for its potential health benefits. However, its use comes with risks that need careful consideration.

Potential Benefits of Licorice Root

• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Potential aid in digestive health
• Possible support for respiratory issues

Risks and Side Effects

The side effects of licorice root extract can be significant:

1. Elevated blood pressure levels
2. Headaches
3. Hormonal imbalances
4. Potential interactions with medications

Are there safer alternatives to licorice root extract for those seeking its benefits? Yes, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a form of licorice root that has had the glycyrrhizin removed, potentially reducing the risk of side effects while retaining some benefits.

Managing Licorice Allergy and Consumption

For those with a confirmed licorice allergy, the primary management strategy is avoidance. This includes being vigilant about food labels and being aware of hidden sources of licorice.

Foods to Avoid with Licorice Allergy

• Licorice candy and confectioneries
• Certain herbal teas
• Some types of chewing gum
• Certain alcoholic beverages (e.g., some liqueurs)
• Some tobacco products

What other foods should individuals with licorice allergy be cautious about? Those with licorice allergies should also be wary of anise and fennel, as these have similar flavor profiles and may cause cross-reactivity in some individuals.

Emergency Management of Allergic Reactions

In case of accidental exposure leading to an allergic reaction:

1. Seek immediate medical attention
2. Use prescribed antihistamines if available
3. For severe reactions, use an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed

How quickly should one seek medical help after experiencing symptoms of a licorice allergy? It’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as symptoms appear, as allergic reactions can escalate rapidly.

Licorice and Drug Interactions: What You Need to Know

Licorice can interact with various medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. These interactions are particularly concerning for individuals on regular medication regimens.

Common Drug Interactions with Licorice

• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• Diuretics
• Corticosteroids
• Certain heart medications
• Some diabetes medications

Why does licorice interact with these medications? Licorice can affect the body’s potassium levels and blood pressure, which can interfere with the action of these drugs or amplify their effects.

Precautions for Medication Users

1. Consult with a healthcare provider before consuming licorice products
2. Inform all healthcare providers about licorice consumption
3. Be vigilant about potential changes in medication effectiveness

How can patients ensure safe consumption of licorice while on medication? Always consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating licorice into your diet, especially if you’re on any regular medications.

Diagnostic Approaches for Licorice Allergy

Accurate diagnosis of licorice allergy is crucial for effective management and prevention of potentially serious reactions. Healthcare providers employ various methods to confirm a licorice allergy.

Common Diagnostic Methods

• Skin prick tests
• Blood tests for specific IgE antibodies
• Oral food challenges (under medical supervision)
• Detailed patient history

Why are multiple diagnostic methods often necessary? Allergies can be complex, and using a combination of tests helps ensure a more accurate diagnosis while ruling out other potential causes of symptoms.

Interpreting Allergy Test Results

Understanding allergy test results requires professional interpretation:

1. Positive skin prick or blood tests indicate sensitization, not necessarily allergy
2. Oral food challenges provide the most definitive diagnosis
3. Patient history helps contextualize test results

How reliable are at-home allergy tests for diagnosing licorice allergy? While at-home tests may provide some information, they are not as reliable as professionally administered tests and should not be used as the sole basis for diagnosis.

Natural Alternatives and Substitutes for Licorice

For those who enjoy the flavor of licorice but need to avoid it due to allergies or health concerns, several natural alternatives can provide similar taste profiles without the associated risks.

Licorice-Like Flavors from Other Sources

• Anise seed
• Fennel
• Star anise
• Caraway

Are these alternatives safe for everyone with licorice allergies? While these alternatives often provide a similar flavor, individuals with licorice allergies should approach them cautiously, as cross-reactivity can occur in some cases.

Herbal Teas as Licorice Substitutes

Several herbal teas can offer similar soothing properties to licorice tea:

1. Peppermint tea
2. Chamomile tea
3. Marshmallow root tea
4. Slippery elm tea

How can individuals safely explore licorice alternatives? Start with small amounts of alternatives under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially if you have known allergies or sensitivities.

Long-Term Health Monitoring for Licorice Consumers

Regular licorice consumers, even those without known allergies, should be aware of the potential long-term health impacts and monitor their health accordingly.

Key Health Parameters to Monitor

• Blood pressure
• Potassium levels
• Hormonal balance
• Kidney function

Why is ongoing monitoring important for regular licorice consumers? Long-term consumption of licorice, even in moderate amounts, can lead to cumulative effects on health, particularly affecting blood pressure and hormonal balance.

Recommended Health Checks

1. Regular blood pressure checks
2. Annual blood tests to assess electrolyte levels and kidney function
3. Consultation with healthcare provider about licorice consumption
4. Monitoring for any new or unusual symptoms

How often should regular licorice consumers have their health checked? While individual needs may vary, an annual health check-up is advisable for those who regularly consume licorice or licorice-containing products.

In conclusion, while licorice and its extracts offer unique flavors and potential health benefits, they also come with risks ranging from allergies to significant side effects. Understanding these risks, recognizing symptoms, and working closely with healthcare providers are key to safely enjoying licorice or finding suitable alternatives. Whether you’re dealing with a licorice allergy or simply curious about its health impacts, staying informed and vigilant is crucial for maintaining optimal health.

Licorice Allergy: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Do you experience symptoms such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing after consuming licorice? You may have a licorice allergy. At Nao Medical, we understand the impact allergies can have on your daily life. That’s why we offer comprehensive allergy testing and treatment options to help you manage your symptoms and live your best life.

What is Licorice Allergy?

Licorice allergy is a type of food allergy that occurs when your immune system mistakenly identifies the proteins in licorice as harmful. This triggers an allergic reaction, which can range from mild to severe.

Symptoms of Licorice Allergy

• Hives or rash
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Headache
• Low blood pressure

If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming licorice, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

Causes of Licorice Allergy

Licorice allergy is caused by an immune system response to the proteins in licorice. It’s not entirely clear why some people develop allergies while others do not, but genetics and environmental factors may play a role.

Treatment for Licorice Allergy

The best way to manage a licorice allergy is to avoid consuming licorice and any products that contain licorice. If you accidentally consume licorice and experience symptoms, seek medical attention right away. Your doctor may prescribe antihistamines or other medications to help manage your symptoms.

At Nao Medical, we offer comprehensive allergy testing to help identify the specific allergens that trigger your symptoms. We also offer personalized treatment plans to help you manage your allergies and live your best life.

Book an Appointment with Nao Medical

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a licorice allergy or any other type of allergy, don’t suffer in silence. Book an appointment with Nao Medical today and get the care you need to manage your symptoms and live your best life.

Book an Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I accidentally consume licorice and experience symptoms?

If you accidentally consume licorice and experience symptoms such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention right away. Your doctor may prescribe antihistamines or other medications to help manage your symptoms.

Can I develop a licorice allergy later in life?

Yes, it’s possible to develop a licorice allergy later in life even if you’ve never had an allergic reaction to licorice before. If you experience symptoms after consuming licorice, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

What other foods should I avoid if I have a licorice allergy?

If you have a licorice allergy, you should also avoid consuming anise, fennel, and other foods that contain licorice root extract.

Can allergies be cured?

While there is no cure for allergies, they can be managed with proper treatment and care. At Nao Medical, we offer comprehensive allergy testing and personalized treatment plans to help you manage your allergies and live your best life.

External Links:

• https://www.cdc.gov/climateandhealth/effects/allergen.htm
• https://medlineplus.gov/allergy.html

Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered, construed or interpreted as legal or professional advice, guidance or opinion.

7 Ways It May Harm Your Health

Several side effects of licorice root extract may make you think twice about using it. Candy and beverages often contain licorice root extract. However, excess consumption may lead to health problems. Several studies have shown that overconsuming licorice can cause elevated blood pressure levels and headaches.

Knowing more about the licorice root side effects is important to avoid undesirable effects. Moreover, it may not be suitable for all. This article examines the side effects of licorice root extract, its safety, and any potential drug interactions. Take a look below.

Know Your Ingredient: Licorice Root

Short-Term Effects
High blood pressure, headache, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, and allergic reactions such as asthma.

Long-Term Effects
May cause hormonal imbalance, harm the baby during pregnancy and lead to miscarriage.

Drug Interactions
It may interfere with certain medications, especially blood thinners.

When To See A Doctor
If you experience hypertension, excessive stomach issues, and allergic reactions, seek medical help.

In This Article

What Are The Side Effects Of Licorice Root Extract?

1. May Elevate Blood Pressure Levels

Image: Shutterstock

There are several studies to back this up. Some reports recommend individuals with high blood pressure to avoid licorice root extract altogether.

It is often linked to salt and fluid retention as it suppresses aldosterone – which is a hormone responsible for controlling sodium levels in the body. One study stated that licorice tea caused hypertension in patients, and quitting it resolved the condition in two weeks (1).

Licorice was also identified as a root cause of secondary hypertension. The root contains glycyrrhizic acid, which contributes to its pro-hypertensive properties (2).

According to a study on 985 patients that included 26 trials, the increase in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) that followed was statistically significant. It also confirmed that consumption significantly lowers body weight in patients by 0.433 kg; 95% CI, which in turn lowers their body mass index (BMI).Another finding for the group that consumed licorice is connected to the hypernatremia that licorice is well known to produce.

2. Might Cause Constipation

Image: Shutterstock

Excess amounts of licorice root extract can lead to hypokalemia (low levels of potassium), with constipation being one of its symptoms (3), (4).

The onset and severity of the symptom usually depend on the dose and duration of licorice intake (3).

It is believed that licorice may cause diarrhea or aggravate irritable bowel syndrome in some individuals. However, there is no sufficient information to prove this effect. If you have any bowel issues, please check with your doctor before consuming licorice (as there is a possibility that you may react to it negatively).

Related: 12 Foods That Can Cause Constipation And How To Prevent It

Did You Know?

George Dunhill, a local chemist in England, added sugar to licorice and named it ‘Pontefract cake’. Excess consumption of this cake led to mass hypokalemia in the 1500s.

3. May Lead To Headaches

Image: Shutterstock

The glycyrrhizin is the culprit. It is known to trigger headaches. A Massachusetts study found that excessive consumption of the extract could lead to the constriction and dilation of cerebral arteries, often leading to thunderclap headaches (5).

In rare cases, it is complicated by hemorrhagic strokesⁱ  XStrokes that damage the brain and cause neurological symptoms when a blood vessel bursts and causes bleeding inside the brain. (5). Though the condition is reversible, the symptoms can be severe.

4. May Lead To Dizziness And Fatigue

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery reported the development of hypertensive encephalopathyⁱ  XA condition where brain function is compromised due to elevated blood pressure, causing headaches, nausea, and vomiting. in a 15-year-old boy after ingestion of a candy containing licorice (6).

This form of hypertension is accompanied by vomiting, dizziness, headaches, and visual problems (7).

Licorice may also cause apparent mineralocorticoid excess, another condition characterized by hypertension. The symptoms of this condition include dizziness, headaches, and general and muscular fatigue (8).

Related: Top 11 Home Remedies To Relieve Tired Legs And Feet

5. May Cause Hormonal Imbalances

Mice studies have shown that isoliquiritigenin, a compound in licorice, may cause Hormonal Imbalance by interfering with the sex hormones in the ovaries. It may disrupt the production of sex hormones (9).

One major reported side effect of licorice root is reduced levels of testosterone in men (10). Some believe it may also increase estrogen and prolactin levels in women, though more research is warranted.

6. May Harm Baby During Pregnancy

Studies show that licorice consumption during pregnancy may harm the developing offspring (11).

Adolescents exposed to large amounts of licorice when in the womb performed less well in cognitive tests (11).

The glycyrrhizin in licorice was also found to be associated with preterm delivery. Hence, pregnant women are suggested to stay away from licorice (12). Some experts believe that licorice can induce preterm labor by mimicking the effects of estrogen (the female sex hormone). However, we need more research in this regard.

Licorice is also believed to cause miscarriage. There is no evidence to support this information, though.

The effect of licorice in breastfeeding women has not been studied well. Hence, breastfeeding women should avoid it.

7. May Cause Allergic Reactions

Image: Shutterstock

Excess licorice intake has been associated with allergies like asthma and contact dermatitisⁱ  XAn allergic reaction caused by contact with something that causes inflammation in the skin, including irritants like soap or fragrances. (13). It may also interfere with blood-thinning medications like warfarin (13).

Anecdotal evidence suggests that those allergic to peas or legumes may also be allergic to licorice. Studies suggest that excess licorice consumption may lead to kidney damage and acute renal failure (14). However, research is limited to support this data.

Related: 14 Best Home Remedies For Skin Allergies | Causes And Symptoms

Did You Know?

Alexander The Great was believed to take licorice root on his campaigns to help himself with thirst. It also supposedly helped him and his soldiers stay hydrated during water scarcity.

How Much Licorice Root (in mg) Is Safe?

The actual dosage of licorice could be hard to determine as it is available in various forms, including candies, supplements, and beverages. As per the European Union, 100 mg/day is the upper limit for the intake of glycyrrhizin, which is present in about 70 grams of licorice (13).

Another study has declared the safe upper limit of licorice to be 1 to 5 grams per day (13).

Given the ambiguity, you should consult your doctor regarding licorice dosage.

Despite its common use in beverages and confectionery, licorice root extract may prove to be harmful if consumed in excessive amounts. There have been many studies demonstrating the adverse effects of its excessive consumption. The side effects of licorice root range from increased blood sugar levels to hormone imbalances. Furthermore, it may cause constipation, headaches, or dizziness. In some cases, licorice root may trigger allergic reactions or interfere with the functioning of certain medications, especially blood thinners. Avoid such complications by limiting your intake or abstaining from it altogether.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does licorice cause weight gain?

There is no information that licorice may cause weight gain. In fact, some research states that it may help slow down weight gain. The effects were more pronounced with licorice root powder (15).
It is believed that licorice may affect the hormones related to metabolism, and this may lead to unhealthy weight gain. However, there is no research to support this.

Does licorice damage the liver?

Anecdotal evidence suggests that individuals with liver disease must stay away from licorice. There is no research to back this up. In fact, one rat study states that licorice could actually be beneficial for the liver (16).

What medications should not be taken with licorice?

According to anecdotal evidence, avoid taking licorice with diuretics, digoxin, and laxatives, as it may interfere with their functions.

How long does licorice root stay in your system?

Glycyrrhizin, the active ingredient of licorice root, is usually eliminated within 11 hours of ingestion (17).

Who should avoid black licorice?

According to anecdotal evidence, avoid taking excess black licorice if you face heart rhythm troubles or have high blood pressure.

Is licorice a laxative?

Yes, licorice acts as a laxative and relieves constipation. Hence, avoid consuming it if you take other laxatives.

Can licorice affect potassium levels?

Yes, excess licorice consumption may result in low potassium levels (Hypokalemia), which may lead to muscle weakness (18), (19).

Key Takeaways

• Licorice root extract may lead to increased blood pressure and constipation.
• This root may disrupt sex hormone production in women and cause reduced testosterone in men, leading to hormonal imbalances.
• Consuming licorice root during pregnancy can lead to preterm delivery and possibly even miscarriage.
• Overconsumption of licorice can lead to allergic reactions and interfere with certain medications.
• Consult a doctor before ingesting licorice as the safe upper limit is not well known.

Licorice can cause some unwanted side effects, so it is important to be aware of them. Check out this video to know more about this ingredient before consuming it.

Sources

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Check out our editorial policy for further details.

• Hypertension induced by liquorice tea, BMJ Case Reports, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4480140/
• Liquorice: a root cause of secondary hypertension, Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5298563/
• Licorice-induced hypokalemia, International Journal of Cardiology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17320224
• Hypokalemia: a clinical update, Endocrine Connections, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5881435/
• LICORICE-ASSOCIATED REVERSIBLE CEREBRAL VASOCONSTRICTION WITH PRES, Neurology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995386/
• Hypertension encephalopathy after liquorice ingestion, Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery, ScienceDirect.
  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/030384679390089Y
• Hypertensive Encephalopathy, Iranian Journal of Child Neurology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/pmc/articles/PMC3943026/
• THE HIDDEN LIQUORICE: APPARENT MINERALOCORTICOID EXCESS CAUSED BY
  INADVERTENT EXPOSURE TO LIQUORICE ROOT EXTRACT, AACE Clinical Case Reports.
  https://journals.aace.com/doi/pdf/10.4158/EP14556.CR
• Effects of isoliquiritigenin on ovarian antral follicle growth and steroidogenesis, Reproductive Toxicology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5125911/
• Licorice consumption and serum testosterone in healthy man, Experimental and clinical endocrinology & diabetes, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14520600
• Maternal Licorice Consumption During Pregnancy and Pubertal, Cognitive, and Psychiatric Outcomes in Children, American Journal of Epidemiology, Oxford Academic Journals.
  https://academic.oup.com/aje/article/185/5/317/2967089
• Preterm birth and licorice consumption during pregnancy, American Journal of Epidemiology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12396997
• Licorice abuse: time to send a warning message, Endocrinology and Metabolism, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3498851/
• Acute renal failure after licorice ingestion: A case report, Open Medicine, ResearchGate
  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/226928509_Acute_renal_failure_after_licorice_ingestion_A_case_report#:~:text=In%20high%20doses%20and%20long,failure%20%5B36%2C%2037%5D.
• Dietary licorice root supplementation improves diet-induced weight gain, lipid deposition and hepatic steatosis in ovariectomized mice without stimulating reproductive tissues and mammary gland, Molecular nutrition & food research, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4738101/
• Hepatoprotective and Antioxidant Effects of Licorice Extract against CCl4-Induced Oxidative Damage in Rats, International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
  http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.288.5533&rep=rep1&type=pdf
• Pharmacokinetics of intravenous glycyrrhizin after single and multiple doses in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection
  https://repub.eur.nl/pub/73160
• Trick or Treat? Licorice-Induced Hypokalemia: A Case Report
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7769495/
• A hypokalemic muscular weakness after licorice ingestion: a case report
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2827066/

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LIQORICE ALLERGY tips and instructions 13:23 2023

Licorice (licorice root) can cause common allergy symptoms in some people. An allergy to licorice has effects similar to any food allergy from foods such as nuts, fish, or milk. Allergy to licorice is primarily known for causing shortness of breath, skin rashes, and itching.

Licorice is an herb commonly found in sweets and baked goods and used in some herbal teas. If someone experiences allergy symptoms after eating licorice, they should speak to an allergist to get tested to confirm subsequent licorice allergies.

When a person has a food allergy, it means that his immune system reacts to the food received as a harmful substance. The immune system reacts to the licorice herb by creating antibodies to fight the substances from the herb. These antibodies cause mast cells to release histamine into the blood, which leads to common allergy symptoms. If you are allergic to licorice, then you should avoid eating it. The most common food allergens are nuts, fish, eggs and dairy products, to which the human body can react in different ways.

The most common symptoms that anyone can experience with licorice root are skin rashes, asthma symptoms, and itchy nose, throat, or eyes. Typical skin rashes resulting from licorice allergy include hives and eczema. Both rashes produce inflammation and cause severe itching around the affected areas of the skin. Asthma symptoms include difficulty breathing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest discomfort. In some cases, allergies can lead to nasal congestion, sneezing, and sinus pressure.

There is no cure for licorice allergy and there is no cure. First of all, foods and drinks containing licorice and its by-products, such as licorice extract, should be avoided, and this will be the best way to manage this condition. Therefore, before using any products, you need to see if there is licorice or its processed products in order to protect yourself as much as possible from side effects and negative consequences.

Mild food allergies can be treated with simple and commonly available antihistamines. Antihistamines can help reduce allergy symptoms by limiting mast cells from producing histamine. Scabies and eczema can be treated with hydrocortisone to reduce itching and reduce swelling. Severe skin rashes can be treated with special ointments that relieve inflammation and itching on the skin. If a person experiences asthmatic conditions from ingesting licorice, he should definitely talk to a doctor about such a condition so that next time he knows how these effects can be quickly resolved.

Be very careful if you are really allergic to licorice, as a severe allergic reaction to licorice can lead to death if not treated promptly. Anaphylactic shock is an extreme allergic reaction that affects the entire human body. Common symptoms of anaphylactic shock are a sudden drop in blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat, and a sudden state of anxiety. Therefore, you should be careful with this product if you are allergic to it.

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what is useful and for whom it is contraindicated

Published:

November 24, 2021, 18:25

• nur.kz/health/healthy-lifestyle/1756502-koren-solodki-poleznye-svojstva-i-protivopokazania/”>

Licorice root: what is useful and for whom it is contraindicated: Pixabay

Licorice root can be found in the medicine cabinet of most people. This well-known and affordable remedy is used for coughs, inflammations, spasms and many other problems. How effective is the plant in combating these disorders and can it harm the body?

Health benefits of licorice root

Licorice is a perennial herb of the legume family. The root is used as a medicinal raw material. It is cleaned, cut and dried in the sun or in ovens. Such raw materials can be stored for up to 10 years, it does not lose its useful properties. It is one of the oldest and most commonly used herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. According to Dr. Rui Yang, the root has more than 20 organic oxygen-containing compounds, 300 flavonoids, it has a wide range of effects.

How useful is licorice root? The product has the following effect:

1. Anti-inflammatory. The composition contains substances that are similar in structure and action to steroid hormones, and they have a strong anti-inflammatory effect.
2. Cholesterol lowering. Biologically active substances of the plant slow down the synthesis of cholesterol and reduce its level, destroy cholesterol plaques.
3. Hepatoprotective, detoxifying. It inhibits inflammatory processes in the liver and accelerates the recovery of hepatocytes. Reduces the likelihood of developing liver cancer in viral hepatitis. Helps prevent cirrhosis and hepatitis C.
4. Expectorant. It has a mucolytic effect, enhances the secretory function of the upper respiratory tract and accelerates the excretion of sputum.
5. Antispasmodic. Flavonoids in the composition of the product relax smooth muscles and relieve spasms.
6. Protective (for the gastric mucosa). The remedy contains mucus that envelops the stomach. It protects him from gastritis and ulcers, as well as from the bacterium Helicobacter, which provokes these diseases.
7. Blood glucose lowering agent. Licorice activates the activity of the endocrine glands and stimulates the secretion of insulin by the pancreas.
8. Antiallergic. The plant contains substances that block histamines – mediators of allergic reactions.
9. Diuretic, laxative. Licorice root improves metabolism and stimulates the production of the hormone vasopressin, which is involved in the process of urination.

The benefits of licorice root for the body: Pixabay

All these properties allow the use of licorice root for the treatment of such diseases:

• bronchitis, tracheitis, asthma;
• arthritis, stomatitis;
• heartburn, gastritis, peptic ulcer;
• allergies, eczema, skin infections, herpes.

Licorice root accelerates the breakdown of fats and helps to get rid of excess fat deposits. It is effective during menopause, helps to cope with hot flashes. Brunilda Nazario, MD, explains that the drug combats the effects of the aging process on the brain and supports cognitive function.

Very often the plant is used to treat colds, improve skin condition and protect the epidermis from environmental influences. Licorice root extract (glycyrrhizin) has been cited as a promising treatment for chronic hepatitis C and liver cancer, according to WebMD.

Like any drug, licorice should be consumed in a certain dosage and with regard to contraindications.

Harm of licorice root and how to take it correctly

Why is licorice root harmful? In case of overdose and uncontrolled use, the drug can adversely affect the body and lead to the following consequences:

• increased pressure;
• cardiac arrhythmias;
• edema;
• hormonal imbalance;
• allergy;
• fatigue.

Why was licorice root banned? Herbal preparations are perceived by many as easy and harmless. But their action is often no less intense than synthetic drugs. The prohibition of the uncontrolled use of products with licorice root is due to the fact that it contains substances similar to steroid hormones. Hormones, even in small doses, have a significant effect on the body, and in case of an overdose, they can lead to a number of problems. Including provoke the development of tumors that are sensitive to estrogen.

To avoid the negative effect of the drug, you need to take into account contraindications to the drug, including:

• hypertension;
• renal insufficiency;
• cholecystitis;
• cirrhosis;
• hypokalemia;
• heart failure;
• obesity;
• pathology of the gastrointestinal tract;
• pregnancy;
• increased blood clotting;
• hyperactive function of the adrenal cortex.

The drug has quite a few contraindications, so you should consult your doctor before using it. If he approved the use of the remedy, then it must be taken according to the instructions.

What is the right way to drink licorice root? Do not consume more than 18 grams of the drug per day. If you are taking licorice syrup, then drink it after meals, drink plenty of fluids. It can be tea or water at room temperature. The syrup is used to treat coughs and respiratory diseases.

Licorice root syrup is washed down with water: Pixabay

The herb can also be drunk as a powder, from which an infusion is made. To prepare the infusion, the powder is poured with water, stirred and left to infuse for 1 hour. Then they filter. Before taking the infusion, it is recommended to drink an enterosorbent to remove toxins.

The dried root of the plant can be used to make a tea. Pieces of the dried plant are poured with boiling water and left for 10-15 minutes to brew. Let cool and drink. The course of treatment is 7-10 days.

Licorice medicines can be taken by both adults and children, but at a lower dosage. It is forbidden for pregnant women to drink syrups and infusions based on this plant because of its effect on the hormonal background.

Licorice root is a popular remedy with analgesic, expectorant, antispasmodic action. This drug has a rich composition and a wide spectrum of action, therefore it is actively used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. However, not everyone can use this remedy, and an overdose threatens with a number of side effects. Therefore, before the course of treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Attention! The material is for informational purposes only. You should not resort to the methods of treatment described in it without first consulting a doctor.

Sources:

1. Brunilda Nazario. Licorice Root May Keep Mental Skills Sharp // WebMD. – 2004. – Access mode: https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/news/20040329/licorice-root-may-keep-mental-skills-sharp
2. Maoyuan Jiang. An “essential herbal medicine”-licorice: A review of phytochemicals and its effects in combination preparations // PubMed.