Black Licorice Side Effects

Black licorice is a herb, well-known for its sweet roots. Licorice extracts are commonly used as a flavor enhancer. The root of the black licorice displays medicinal properties and hence it is cultivated on a large-scale in various European countries. Clinical studies on black licorice have revealed that the herb is useful in the treatment of stomach ulcers, heartburn, fever, sore throat and respiratory problems like bronchitis. A popular product that is made by using the root of this herb is the black licorice candy. It is simply delicious and one can simply derive licorice benefits by having this candy. Besides providing health benefits, this herb can also produce unwanted side effects. Some of them are given below:

Taking these supplements, once in a while, might not cause any side effects. However, when black licorice is taken on a regular basis, it is a cause for concern. Women may suffer from missed periods with too much consumption of black licorice. Some of the worrisome side effects are given below:

High Blood Pressure
Gorging on licorice candy can also cause hypertension. Why does this occur? It is observed that black licorice behaves like a corticosteroid, which is notorious for inducing hypertension. Basically, black licorice promotes the body to retain more sodium. With the rise in sodium levels, it is likely to raise blood pressure, thus putting the person in the risk zone of heart attack and stroke.

Low Potassium Levels
This herb when taken in supplemental form stimulates elimination of potassium through urine. As potassium in the body falls below normal levels, it can lead to persistent fatigue, paralysis and even heart failure.

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
Black licorice can also interfere with the normal functioning of the heart. As we all know, the heart is responsible for supplying fresh oxygenated blood to different parts of the body. However, in congestive heart failure (CHF) the heart is incapable of pumping sufficient amount of blood and its symptoms manifest in the form of swollen hands or feet due to water retention, unexplained weight gain, breathing problems and low potassium levels.

Poor Sex Drive
Sexual life may get drastically affected in men if black licorice is taken frequently. In other words, men having these herbal supplements may no longer be interested in sex, despite the other partner craving for sexual pleasure. This happens because testosterone levels in men reduce considerably. Basically, testosterone, a sex hormone contributes to proper development of sex organs. Appetite for sex is completely dependent on the amount of testosterone in the body. So, declining testosterone levels due to black licorice can lead to impotence in men.

Allergic Reactions
There are some who are genetically intolerant towards intake of certain substances. Taking such substances triggers an allergic reaction which can be quite bothersome. So, people who have developed an allergy to black licorice are likely to experience its side effects that may occur in the form of skin rashes, breathing problems and this may be accompanied by inflammation in the throat and mouth.

An ingredient glycyrrhizin found in black licorice is believed to be responsible for causing these worrisome side effects. Herbal supplements (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) that do not contain glycyrrhizin might not produce these side effects. Overall, as aforementioned side effects of this medicinal herb are a cause of concern, so it is advised not to take it in supplemental form, without the consent of a qualified doctor. Although studies point its medicinal value, FDA has not granted permission for its usage as a medicinal product. So, it would be wise to talk to a doctor, instead of hastily taking it to cure any ailment.