Glycyrrhizin

PhytochemicalSaponin

What is it

Glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizinic acid) is the main sweet-tasting compound in licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). It is 30-50 times sweeter than sugar and has significant pharmacological effects, distinct from deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL).

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Chronic viral hepatitis

Good Evidence

Injectable glycyrrhizin (Stronger Neo-Minophagen C) is used in some countries for chronic hepatitis B and C with documented improvements in liver enzymes and possibly slower disease progression. Oral supplement use does not match these therapeutic settings.

How it works

Glycyrrhizin inhibits 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 (11β-HSD2), an enzyme that normally inactivates cortisol in the kidneys. This causes cortisol to act on mineralocorticoid receptors, leading to sodium retention, potassium loss, and water retention. The effect produces a 'pseudoaldosteronism' picture. Clinically, glycyrrhizin has antiviral activity (used for chronic hepatitis B and C in some countries), anti-inflammatory effects, and is being studied for various conditions. Its mineralocorticoid effects also limit safe doses.

Dosage

Health authorities recommend limiting glycyrrhizin intake to less than 100 mg per day from all sources for chronic use. Higher acute doses are used clinically under supervision.

When and how to take it

WHEN: Generally limited to short-term use, except under medical supervision. HOW: With water; monitor blood pressure if used regularly.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Whole licorice extract (contains glycyrrhizin)

Traditional and common supplement form.

Glycyrrhizin is poorly absorbed but converted to active glycyrrhetinic acid by gut bacteria.

Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL)

Used to avoid pseudoaldosteronism risk while retaining other licorice benefits.

Reformulated to remove most glycyrrhizin (less than 2%).

Safety

The main safety concern is pseudoaldosteronism: high blood pressure, low potassium, water retention, and (rarely) cardiac arrhythmias or muscle weakness. These effects can occur with as little as 100 mg/day with extended use, especially in susceptible people.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in hypertension, kidney disease, heart disease, low potassium, and pregnancy. Avoid with diuretics, corticosteroids, and digoxin. Even moderate intake (more than 100 mg/day) for extended periods carries risk.

Interactions

Increases potassium loss when combined with diuretics, corticosteroids, or laxatives. May potentiate cardiac glycosides (digoxin). Multiple CYP enzyme interactions; can affect metabolism of many drugs.

Food sources

Licorice candy (real, not anise-flavored)

Amount
1 oz
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

How much licorice is too much?⌄

Health authorities advise less than 100 mg of glycyrrhizin per day for chronic use, which is roughly 30 g of real licorice candy. Even modest daily amounts have caused blood pressure problems.

Is DGL safer than regular licorice?⌄

Yes for the pseudoaldosteronism risk. DGL has most glycyrrhizin removed, eliminating the blood pressure and potassium concerns, while keeping mucosal-soothing properties.

References

Glycyrrhizin on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Glycyrrhizin on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Glycyrrhizin (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.