Side Effects of Raw Licorice

For Chinese people, traditional Chinese medicine is very important. Because Chinese people trust traditional Chinese medicine, various traditional Chinese medicines are very familiar to people. Licorice is a very familiar traditional Chinese medicine. It has many benefits for people, but as the saying goes, all medicines are poisonous. The side effects of raw licorice cannot be ignored. Let us learn about this below.

Raw licorice is a kind of Chinese herbal medicine that many of us are very familiar with. For many people, its effects and functions are very great, but the side effects of raw licorice cannot be ignored. So what are its side effects? Let's learn about it below.

Licorice is a leguminous plant native to Asia and some parts of Europe. The root of this plant has a sweet taste, hence its name. In addition to being used as a sweetener in candies, licorice has a wide range of health benefits. The ancient Greeks and Romans were well aware of the plant’s therapeutic uses. This herb was mentioned in the medical texts of Hippocrates, and its rhizomes were also used in ancient China to treat various ailments.

Licorice's benefits include treating coughs, stomach ulcers, mouth ulcers, ileitis, leaky gut syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, and Crohn's disease. Today, licorice extract is available in both solid and liquid forms. Its main ingredient is glycyrrhizic acid, which is also the reason why licorice tastes sweet.

Licorice Side Effects

It is thought that licorice side effects are caused by consuming too high a dose. Some of the unavoidable impacts include:

1. Glycyrrhizic acid in licorice extract can cause a condition called pseudoaldosteronism, which is characterized by high levels of a hormone called aldosterone in the body. Normally, this hormone helps balance potassium and sodium levels in the body. High levels of this hormone can block sodium excretion and cause potassium to be excreted in the urine, leading to increased blood pressure and muscle damage. Loss of potassium can cause the heart and muscles to function abnormally. It also causes water retention, resulting in edema.

2. According to a 2008 EU report, excessive use of licorice can lead to increased blood pressure, muscle weakness, chronic fatigue, headaches, swelling, and decreased testosterone levels in men.

3. It is also believed that excessive use of licorice by pregnant women can cause heavy bleeding and even lead to premature birth.

4. There are also reports showing that long-term use of licorice can cause side effects such as abnormal weight gain.

People with high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, or liver and menstrual problems should avoid licorice. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as men with sexual dysfunction, should also avoid this herb. People who are taking angiotensin inhibitors and diuretic medications should also avoid licorice.

Although, consuming candies containing licorice extract is not considered harmful, excessive consumption can also have side effects. Therefore, in order to ensure your own health, it is best to consult a doctor before using licorice products and health supplements.

Through the introduction of the above article, I believe everyone has a certain understanding of the side effects of raw licorice. Raw licorice is a Chinese herbal medicine that we are all very familiar with. It has great efficacy and effects on the human body. However, it should be noted that raw licorice also has certain side effects. I hope everyone will take it with caution.