Natural Medicines Newsletter

Volume 1, Issue 41, 10/29/2009

Question

What is the mechanism by which licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) causes swelling or edema?

Answer

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) contains an ingredient called glycyrrhizin or glycyrrhizic acid and has been used in the treatment of stomach ulcers, bronchitis, sore throat and even viral hepatitis.(1)  It is available in a number of dosage forms that include powdered forms, capsules, tablets and liquid extracts.(1)  Unfortunately, licorice ingestion can lead to excess.... 

The complete answer to this question also comes with a figure that demonstrates the mechanism for which licorice causes edema.