Licorice and blood pressure: risks in hypertension

Licorice shows up in teas, candies, and supplements, and many people assume it is harmless because it is plant based. Yet there is a reason to treat it with respect, especially if you have hypertension or cardiovascular risk. The key point is that certain licorice compounds can disrupt sodium and potassium balance, and that can show up in your blood pressure.

Why licorice can raise blood pressure

A commonly discussed mechanism involves an enzyme that helps limit cortisol activity in certain tissues. When that brake works, the body avoids an excessive signal for sodium retention. When the brake is blocked, the body can act as if more cortisol is active than is ideal.

With licorice, the compound most linked to this effect is glycyrrhizin. In some people and with repeated exposure, it can promote sodium retention, potassium loss, and therefore higher blood pressure. It can also increase the risk of cramps and arrhythmias in susceptible individuals.

Why potassium matters

Potassium is a key electrolyte for muscle function and for stable heart rhythm. Many modern diets deliver too much sodium and do not always provide enough potassium. If you then add a factor that pushes potassium lower, your safety margin shrinks.

Who should avoid it or be extra cautious

Not everyone reacts the same, but risk is higher in these groups:

1. People with diagnosed hypertension.
2. People taking diuretics, since some can lower potassium.
3. Anyone with a history of arrhythmias, palpitations, or heart disease.
4. People with kidney disease.
5. People using systemic corticosteroids, because the combination can complicate electrolyte and blood pressure control.

If you are in one of these groups, it does not mean one exposure is dangerous. It does mean routine use is a poor default, and you should tell your clinician if you use it.

Where it hides and when it can be too much

Licorice appears in different forms.

1. Teas: some herbal blends include licorice as a sweetener.
2. Candies: licorice flavored products can vary widely.
3. Capsules and extracts: the easiest way to take it daily without noticing.

The bigger risk is usually not a single dose, but daily use over weeks. If you use licorice chronically, watch for higher blood pressure, swelling, cramps, weakness, or palpitations. If those show up, stopping and checking in with a professional is the prudent move.

Pseudo hyperaldosteronism: why it can confuse

When licorice shifts this hormonal pathway, some people can look similar to aldosterone excess. That can confuse evaluation if licorice intake is not mentioned, especially when blood pressure is high and potassium is low. That is why it helps to report teas, supplements, and candies clearly.

An alternative: DGL licorice for digestive support

There is a form known as DGL, which means deglycyrrhizinated licorice. In simple terms, the compound linked to blood pressure effects is removed or reduced. That is why DGL is often considered when the goal is digestive support while minimizing electrolyte impact.

This does not make DGL a free pass. Product quality, dose, and context still matter. Still, it is a reasonable option to explore if your main goal is gut support and you want to reduce risk.

How to read labels in practice

1. Look for terms like licorice root, licorice extract, or glycyrrhizin.
2. Be careful with herbal teas marketed for stress, throat, or digestion, since licorice is sometimes used as a sweetener.
3. If you use DGL, confirm the product is labeled as deglycyrrhizinated and check serving size.
4. If you take several supplements, scan ingredient lists for overlap so you do not stack licorice unknowingly.

What to do if you already take it

1. If you take it daily, consider pausing and watching blood pressure and symptoms.
2. If you have a home cuff, track values for a week.
3. If you are on diuretics or blood pressure medication, do not adjust doses on your own.
4. If you had palpitations, cramps, or significant weakness, seek medical advice.

Practical tips to reduce risk

1. Check labels on teas and supplements. Licorice can appear as a minor ingredient.
2. Avoid daily use by default. If you use it, keep it short term and goal driven.
3. If you have hypertension, track home blood pressure when you change habits.
4. Prioritize potassium rich foods if you have no medical restrictions: legumes, vegetables, fruit, and tubers.
5. If you take diuretics or blood pressure medication, do not stack supplements without guidance.
6. Consider DGL if the goal is digestive support and you want to avoid the primary compound.
7. If you feel palpitations, cramps, or weakness, stop and seek advice.

Conclusion

Licorice can be helpful in some contexts, but it is not neutral. For people with hypertension or cardiovascular risk, repeated use can raise blood pressure and affect potassium. The safest approach is to avoid chronic use, watch for warning signs, and if you need a digestive alternative, consider DGL with care.