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Allergy to licorice: Licorice Uses, Side Effects & Warnings

by alexxlab

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.

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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.

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