Licorice

Patient sheet

Licorice is a plant whose active ingredients are mainly found in the roots. It is used primarily for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. When used for medicinal purposes, licorice is usually taken orally in tablet, capsule, or liquid form.

There are several different types of licorice. This sheet does not concern deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL).

Other names

• Glycyrrhiza echinata
• Glycyrrhiza glabra
• Glycyrrhiza uralensis
• Liquorice
• Licorice root
• Sweet root
• Gan cao
• Chinese licorice

Common uses

• Respiratory conditions (e.g., bronchitis, pulmonary congestion, cough)
• Heartburn
• Ulcers in the stomach or intestines
• Problem with the adrenal glands
• Menopause symptoms

This non-exhaustive list presents the most frequent applications.

Recommended doses of natural health products may vary depending on several factors, including which part of the plant is used and the product's form. To avoid confusion regarding dosage, read the information on the product's packaging and seek advice from your health care provider.

Side effects

In addition to its intended effects, this product may occasionally cause side effects:

• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Increased blood pressure
• Water retention
• Decreased sex drive

This non-exhaustive list presents the most frequent and relevant side effects. If you think you're experiencing side effects, speak to your health care provider.

Warnings

Natural health products are not without risk. They may be incompatible with certain health issues or interact with your medications. Always speak with a health care professional before taking this product, especially in the following cases:

• You're taking prescription or over-the-counter medications
• You have high blood pressure
• You have a heart disease
• You have a kidney problem
• You have cancer
• You're scheduled for surgery
• You're pregnant or breastfeeding

Always inform your health care providers of your existing health issues, and make sure to mention any medications that you're taking, either on a regular or irregular basis, including non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and natural health products.

If you're taking a medication for a specific health condition, do not attempt to replace it with a natural health product without first consulting a health care professional, such as your doctor or pharmacist.

General notes

Make sure to inform your health care providers if any of the following applies:

• You have allergies (e.g., medication, food)
• You're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or you're breastfeeding
• You use tobacco, cannabis or cannabis derivatives, or recreational drugs

Keeping a list of your current medications with you at all times is strongly recommended. It may come in handy if you need to see a health care professional or call emergency services.

As with medication, store your natural health products out of reach of children and pets, and return unused or expired products to the pharmacy for safe disposal.