Licorice

Yashtimadhu | Glycyrrhiza glabra

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This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified practitioner before using any herbal supplement.

Licorice root, known as Yashtimadhu ("sweet stick") in Ayurveda, is one of the most versatile herbs in both Eastern and Western herbal medicine. Its primary active compound, glycyrrhizin, is 50 times sweeter than sugar and has potent anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and adrenal-supportive properties. In Ayurveda, Licorice is classified as a Rasayana and is used to harmonize other herbs in a formula — it is the great "peacemaker" of the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia. It soothes the digestive tract, supports respiratory health, nourishes the adrenals, and calms the mind. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is available for those who need to avoid the blood-pressure-raising effects of glycyrrhizin.

Key Benefits

  • +Soothes digestive inflammation
  • +Supports adrenal health
  • +Respiratory demulcent
  • +Harmonizes herbal formulas
  • +Anti-inflammatory and antiviral
  • +Supports hormonal balance
  • +Nourishes voice and throat

Dosha Effects

Vata

Air

Reduces

Pitta

Fire

Reduces

Kapha

Earth

Increases

Dosage

200-400mg extract daily, or DGL 380mg before meals. Max 6 weeks continuous for whole licorice

Contraindications

  • -Hypertension
  • -Heart disease
  • -Kidney disease
  • -Pregnancy
  • -Hypokalemia
  • -Liver cirrhosis

Drug Interactions

  • *Blood pressure medications
  • *Diuretics (potassium loss)
  • *Corticosteroids
  • *Digoxin
  • *Warfarin
  • *MAO inhibitors

Frequently Asked Questions

Is licorice safe for daily use?

Whole licorice root should be limited to 6 weeks of continuous use due to glycyrrhizin's effect on blood pressure and potassium. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) has had the glycyrrhizin removed and is safe for longer-term daily use.

What is the difference between DGL and regular licorice?

DGL has had glycyrrhizin removed, eliminating the blood-pressure-raising and potassium-depleting side effects of whole licorice. DGL is preferred for long-term digestive use, while whole licorice is used short-term for adrenal and respiratory support.

Discover how this herb relates to your constitution

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