10 Possible Side Effects Of Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice)

Glycyrrhiza glabra has some side effects when used improperly, such as potassium depletion, headaches, and fatigue.

These side effects can occur due to its high glycyrrhizin content, which can interfere with the body's natural potassium levels.

Excessive consumption can lead to worsened symptoms, including weakness, dizziness, and in severe cases, even heart problems and high blood pressure, significantly impacting daily activities and quality of life.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra if used imporperly.

1. Induces nausea and vomiting

Glycyrrhiza glabra causes hyperkalemia due to its ability to inhibit the activity of 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 enzyme.

This inhibition leads to an accumulation of cortisol and aldosterone in the body, resulting in an increase in potassium levels in the blood.

Furthermore, Glycyrrhiza glabra also increases the reabsorption of potassium in the kidneys, contributing to hyperkalemia.

2. Induces nausea and vomiting

Glycyrrhiza glabra raises blood pressure due to its high content of glycyrrhetinic acid and licoricidin.

These compounds can cause the body to retain water and sodium, leading to increased blood volume and subsequently, higher blood pressure.

Additionally, Glycyrrhiza glabra may also stimulate the production of aldosterone, a hormone that regulates electrolyte balance and blood pressure.

3. Induces nausea and vomiting

Glycyrrhiza glabra increases cortisol levels due to its ability to inhibit the activity of 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 enzyme.

This enzyme is responsible for converting active cortisol into inactive cortisone in the kidneys.

As a result, high concentrations of glycyrrhizin and flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza glabra can disrupt this conversion process, leading to increased levels of cortisol in the body.

4. Induces nausea and vomiting

Glycyrrhiza glabra triggers allergic reactions in some individuals.

The main culprit is glycyrrhetic acid, a compound found in the plant's roots and leaves that can cause an immune response. This reaction may manifest as hives, itching, and redness of the skin or mucous membranes, potentially leading to respiratory issues such as asthma or rhinitis.

As glycyrrhizin, another bioactive constituent, can interact with the body's hormonal system, allergic reactions may also be linked to an imbalance in cortisol levels.

5. Induces nausea and vomiting

Glycyrrhiza glabra induces hypertension due to its conversion into glycyrrhetinic acid and glycerol in the body.

This process can cause an increase in blood pressure by inhibiting the action of aldosterone, a hormone that regulates sodium levels in the body.

As a result, the body retains more sodium and water, leading to elevated blood pressure.

6. Induces nausea and vomiting

Glycyrrhiza glabra causes arrhythmias due to its ability to increase levels of aldosterone, a hormone that regulates electrolyte and water balance in the body.

As aldosterone levels rise, it can disrupt the normal functioning of the heart, leading to abnormal heartbeat rhythms.

Additionally, Glycyrrhiza glabra's suppression of 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 enzyme may also contribute to this effect by increasing cortisol and aldosterone levels.

7. Induces nausea and vomiting

Glycyrrhiza glabra lowers potassium levels by inhibiting the enzyme 11β-HSD2, which is responsible for converting cortisone to cortisol in the kidneys.

This disruption can lead to increased excretion of potassium ions, resulting in hypokalemia, a condition characterized by low blood potassium levels.

The root's compound, glycyrrhizin, also competes with potassium ions for reabsorption in the kidneys, further contributing to this effect.

8. Induces nausea and vomiting

Glycyrrhiza glabra worsens diabetes due to its ability to interfere with insulin secretion and increase glucose levels in the body.

The plant's active compound, glycyrrhizin, inhibits the activity of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, an enzyme that converts cortisol into a less potent form. This inhibition leads to increased cortisol levels, which can impair insulin sensitivity and worsen blood sugar control in individuals with diabetes.

As a result, individuals with diabetes may experience exacerbation of their condition when using Glycyrrhiza glabra.

9. Induces nausea and vomiting

10. Induces nausea and vomiting

Glycyrrhiza glabra causes gastrointestinal upset due to its high content of glycyrrhizin and isoflavones.

These compounds can alter the balance of gut bacteria, leading to changes in bowel movements, nausea, and stomach discomfort.

Additionally, glycyrrhizin can stimulate the production of aldosterone, a hormone that regulates sodium and water levels in the body, which may result in bloating, gas, and cramps.