Licorice Root Powder

## What is Licorice Root Powder? Licorice root (*Glycyrrhiza glabra*), known traditionally as Mulethi in Ayurveda and widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is one of the world's oldest herbal remedies. While most people associate licorice with the dark, chewy candy, the actual root powder is a potent botanical medicine with a complex pharmacological profile.

In clinical nutrition and supplementation, licorice is primarily utilized for three distinct purposes: gastrointestinal healing, metabolic health (specifically LDL cholesterol protection), and hormonal modulation (cortisol extension). However, it is a botanical that demands respect; its active compounds are powerful enough to cause significant physiological shifts, particularly regarding blood pressure and fluid balance.

## The Two Faces of Licorice: Standard vs. DGL To understand licorice root, you must understand its primary bioactive compound: **glycyrrhizin** (or glycyrrhizic acid). In natural licorice root, glycyrrhizin content ranges from 0.3% to 10%, averaging around 3.3%.

Glycyrrhizin is responsible for the root's sweet taste—it is reportedly 50 times sweeter than sucrose—but it is also responsible for its most significant systemic effects and side effects. Because of the risks associated with glycyrrhizin, supplement manufacturers created **Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)**. DGL is licorice root that has been processed to remove the glycyrrhizin, leaving behind the beneficial flavonoids.

If you are taking licorice for gut health (ulcers, gastritis, reflux), DGL is the preferred form. If you are taking it for adrenal support or traditional TCM purposes, standard licorice root is used, but it must be cycled and monitored.

## How Licorice Impacts Cortisol and Blood Pressure The mechanism of action for standard licorice root is fascinating and heavily documented in clinical literature. Once ingested, glycyrrhizin inhibits an enzyme called 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2).

Normally, your body uses 11β-HSD2 to act as a bouncer, converting active cortisol into inactive cortisone so that cortisol doesn't over-activate mineralocorticoid receptors in your kidneys. By inhibiting this enzyme, licorice causes a localized buildup of active cortisol.

This cortisol binds to mineralocorticoid receptors, acting exactly like the hormone aldosterone. The result? Your kidneys hold onto sodium and water while excreting potassium. This expands your blood volume and directly increases your blood pressure. Examine.com rates licorice with a Grade F (Moderate Detriment) for blood pressure, noting that across 5 studies and 137 participants, it reliably causes hypertensive effects. This is why individuals with high blood pressure or heart conditions must strictly avoid standard licorice root.

## Cardiovascular and Metabolic Benefits Despite its risks to blood pressure, licorice has unique cardiovascular benefits, primarily driven by its flavonoid content, such as **glabridin**.

Clinical trials have shown that licorice root can moderately improve LDL oxidation (Examine Grade C). Oxidized LDL is a highly reactive particle that damages blood vessel walls and accelerates atherosclerosis (plaque buildup). By acting as a potent antioxidant, the flavonoids in licorice protect these cholesterol particles from oxidative stress. Interestingly, research shows that combining licorice with lycopene yields synergistic effects in preventing LDL oxidation.

## Gut Health and Digestion Licorice, particularly in the DGL form, is a staple in integrative gastroenterology. It is highly regarded for its ability to soothe the mucosal lining of the stomach and intestines.

Unlike antacids that simply neutralize stomach acid, DGL stimulates the body's natural defense mechanisms. It increases the production of mucin, the protective mucus that coats the stomach lining, and enhances microcirculation in the gastrointestinal tract. This makes it highly effective for managing gastritis, peptic ulcers, and general dyspepsia.

## Lung Health and Immunity As highlighted by holistic health experts like Luke Coutinho, licorice (Mulethi) is a traditional powerhouse for lung health. It acts as a natural expectorant, helping to loosen mucus and phlegm in the respiratory tract. Furthermore, when combined with ingredients like cranberry, licorice exhibits synergistic anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, making it a popular choice during cold and flu season.

## Skin Health and Hyperpigmentation Licorice root extract is a massive player in the cosmetic and skincare industry. The flavonoid glabridin is a natural tyrosinase inhibitor. Tyrosinase is the enzyme responsible for producing melanin in the skin. By inhibiting this enzyme, licorice root helps to safely fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and melasma without the toxicity associated with synthetic skin-bleaching agents like hydroquinone.

## Dosing and Safety Clinical dosing for standard licorice root powder ranges from 1 to 15 grams daily for conditions like ulcers and gastritis, though Traditional Chinese Medicine may use 8-15 grams for general health. In modern sports nutrition and dietary supplements, you will often see much lower doses of concentrated extracts (e.g., 67mg to 300mg in liver or sleep support blends).

**Drug Interactions:** Licorice is notorious for drug interactions. According to Drugs.com, licorice interacts with 148 different medications. It should never be combined with potassium-depleting diuretics, corticosteroids, or medications that lower blood pressure, as the glycyrrhizin will directly antagonize these drugs.