Liquorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
EMA-monograph herb for dyspepsia and sore throat, pharmacologically active, with meaningful blood-pressure and potassium effects at therapeutic doses.
Why
Liquorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) holds an EMA HMPC monograph at Well-Established Use for upper-respiratory catarrh and at Traditional Use for mild digestive symptoms. The principal active glycyrrhizin is a potent mineralocorticoid-receptor sensitiser via 11β-HSD2 inhibition, meaning sustained therapeutic doses raise blood pressure, drop potassium, and cause fluid retention. Use either DGL (glycyrrhizin removed, see separate card) for chronic use, or whole liquorice short-term and under blood-pressure monitoring.
How it works
Glycyrrhetinic acid inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, allowing cortisol to activate the mineralocorticoid receptor, the basis of both the antitussive/expectorant effect and the hypertensive side effect. Flavonoids and isoflavones provide independent mucosal protection.
Expected onset · Cough or throat soothing acute; mucosal effect over days
How to take
Dosage
Whole liquorice extract: 200–600 mg/day (delivering up to ~100 mg glycyrrhizin), short-term only, no more than 4–6 weeks without supervision.
Timing
With meals; divided 2–3 times daily
On the label
Specify glycyrrhizin content per dose. For chronic use, use DGL instead. Liquorice flavouring (food-grade) is fine; liquorice supplement doses are not casual.
Ideal for
Adults with sore throat or short-term upper-GI complaints, willing to monitor BP and not on diuretics; otherwise prefer DGL.
Safety
Evidence
EMA classifies liquorice root at Well-Established Use for upper-respiratory catarrh and Traditional Use for mild dyspepsia. EFSA's review of glycyrrhizic acid set a guidance of <100 mg/day from all sources to avoid pseudohyperaldosteronism. Omar 2012 J Med Toxicol summarises documented cases of hypertension, hypokalaemia and rhabdomyolysis from sustained liquorice intake, pharmacology is meaningful, not theoretical.
Where to get it
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