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Licorice Root

Licorice Root is the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant and contains glycyrrhizin, a compound studied for its soothing effects on the digestive tract and throat. People use it in supplements to help with occasional digestive discomfort, throat irritation, and stress support.

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Licorice Root

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Ingredient guide

Licorice Root

What it is: Licorice Root is the underground stem (root) of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant and is rich in glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and other plant compounds.
What it does: It is known for supporting digestive comfort, calming occasional throat irritation, and helping the body manage stress by providing adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory benefits.
How it is used: Licorice Root is most commonly used in supplements for digestive wellness, soothing sore throats, supporting respiratory comfort, and stress resilience.
Natural sources and supplement forms: Found naturally in the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra, it is available as dried root, powders, herbal teas, liquid extracts, and standardized forms like deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL).
Why it appears in supplement formulas: It is included for its dual action of supporting the digestive lining and calming throat tissues while also helping the body cope with stress.
What to know before use: Glycyrrhizin-containing licorice can raise blood pressure or affect potassium levels with long-term use; DGL forms lack this risk and are better for sensitive individuals or prolonged use.
Interesting Fact

Licorice Root: Ancient Herb with a Naturally Sweet Twist

Licorice root comes from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant and is naturally up to 50 times sweeter than table sugar due to a compound called glycyrrhizin. It has been prized for thousands of years in both Eastern and Western herbal traditions, and its distinctive sweet flavor is still used today in some candies, teas, and supplement blends.

FAQ

Common questions about Licorice Root

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Licorice Root

What are the main active compounds in Licorice Root supplements?

Licorice Root contains a key compound called glycyrrhizin, which is responsible for its natural sweetness and many of its studied effects. It also contains flavonoids, saponins, and other phytochemicals that contribute to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some supplements use deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), with much of the glycyrrhizin removed, for those seeking digestive support without the effects on blood pressure.

What is Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) and how does it differ from regular Licorice Root?

Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) is Licorice Root that has had most of its glycyrrhizin removed. This makes DGL less likely to affect blood pressure and potassium levels, allowing for longer-term or higher dosage use. DGL is especially popular for digestive and throat comfort, whereas regular Licorice Root may offer broader adaptogenic effects but requires more caution for those with hypertension.

How is Licorice Root typically used in supplements for digestive health?

Licorice Root is commonly included in supplements aimed at supporting digestive comfort and soothing irritated mucous membranes. It is often paired with other herbs like slippery elm or marshmallow root. Both standard and DGL forms are used, but DGL is preferred for long-term digestive support due to its reduced risk of side effects related to blood pressure.

Are there any safety considerations with taking Licorice Root supplements?

Standard Licorice Root, which contains glycyrrhizin, may contribute to increased blood pressure and lowered potassium levels if used in high doses or for extended periods. People with hypertension, those on certain heart or diuretic medications, or those with kidney issues should consult a healthcare provider. DGL forms minimize these concerns, making them generally safer for regular use.

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