Liquorice Toxicity: A Comprehensive Narrative Review
Ceccuzzi G, Rapino A, Perna B, Costanzini A, Farinelli A
Published in Nutrients
Methodology
Narrative review of 104 published case reports of complications from excess liquorice intake, plus current knowledge on glycyrrhizin pharmacology and estrogenic activity
Key Findings
Sustained high glycyrrhizin intake causes pseudo-hyperaldosteronism with hypertension and hypokalaemia, occasionally progressing to arrhythmia, paralysis or rhabdomyolysis.
Conclusions
Glycyrrhizin is the toxic component, which is precisely why deglycyrrhizinated preparations are used for long-term gastric support.
Limitations
Case-report based; no incidence estimates; reporting bias toward severe cases.
Supplements Studied
Continuous intake of large amounts of liquorice is a widely known cause of pseudo-hyperaldosteronism leading to hypertension and hypokalemia.
Outcomes Measured
In addition, liquorice has an important estrogenic-like activity.
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
Not reported
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.