Indications
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra, known in Unani medicine as Asl-us-Soos and in Bangla as Jasthimadhu) is a sweet-tasting root used in Unani and Ayurvedic preparations. It is traditionally used to soothe cough and sore throat, loosen phlegm, and ease indigestion, acidity and mild stomach irritation. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited, and it should not be used to treat serious illness on its own.
How It Works
Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin and plant flavonoids. These coat and soothe the throat and stomach lining, and may thin mucus and reduce mild inflammation. Glycyrrhizin can also affect the body’s salt and water balance, which is why large or long-term use can raise blood pressure and lower potassium.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani or Ayurvedic practitioner. Do not exceed the stated dose, and do not use licorice-containing products continuously for more than a few weeks without medical advice.
Interactions
- Diuretics such as Furosemide or Hydrochlorothiazide, and steroid medicines such as Prednisolone: higher risk of low potassium.
- Digoxin: low potassium can increase the risk of Digoxin side effects on the heart.
- Blood pressure medicines: licorice can work against them.
- Warfarin and hormonal medicines: tell your doctor if you use licorice regularly.
Contraindications
- High blood pressure, heart failure or heart rhythm problems.
- Kidney disease or liver cirrhosis.
- Low blood potassium.
- Pregnancy.
- Known allergy to licorice.
Side Effects
Small amounts for a short time are usually well tolerated. Heavy or long-term use can cause swelling of the legs, headache, raised blood pressure, muscle weakness or cramps from low potassium, and tiredness.
Get urgent medical help if you develop severe muscle weakness, a fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, or swelling of the face or throat.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use licorice products in medicinal amounts during pregnancy, as heavy intake has been linked with problems such as early delivery. Avoid during breastfeeding unless a doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
- Licorice is a potent herb: use only the recommended amount and for short periods.
- Check your blood pressure if you use it for more than a few days.
- Not for young children unless a practitioner advises it.
- A cough lasting more than two weeks, or with blood, fever or weight loss, needs a doctor’s check.
Overdose
Too much licorice can cause high blood pressure, fluid retention, low potassium and muscle weakness, and in severe cases dangerous heart rhythm changes. Seek medical help if a large amount has been taken.
Therapeutic Class
Unani herbal preparation (cough soother and demulcent)
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.