Licorice Root

Benefits of Licorice Root Tea

Licorice root tea is recommended for people suffering from low blood pressure, arthritis, gout, indigestion, colds, coughs, respiratory infections, painful menstruation, seizures, high toxicity levels, dry skin, premature aging, hair loss, dandruff, and various other conditions.

Skin Care

In terms of skin health, licorice root tea can help to keep your skin moisturized when used as a topical application (cold tea), but can also improve the antioxidant levels in your body, helping to minimize signs of aging. Furthermore, licorice tea can help soothe inflammatory conditions like psoriasis or eczema, and even act as a natural sunscreen, helping to block UV rays that damage the skin.

Low Blood Pressure

If you suffer from hypotension, also known as low blood pressure, the stimulating nature of licorice root tea can elevate your blood pressure to normal levels, providing a boost to your energy levels and preventing dizziness and fatigue. However, if you suffer from high blood pressure, this tea can be a dangerous choice for your overall health. [3]

Anti-spasmodic Effects

By soothing the symptoms of seizure disorders and spasms of smooth muscle tissue in the body, licorice root tea can help to relieve heart palpitations, smooth digestive properties, and ensure proper muscle function throughout the body. [4]

Menstrual Cramps

Licorice root tea has been traditionally used to treat the symptoms of dysmenorrhea, also known as menstrual cramps, and also improve other symptoms of PMS, such as mood swings, and hormonal fluctuations. However, when consumed in excess, this tea can have the opposite effects, so only drink this tea in moderation! [5]

Hair Care

Known for its moisturizing qualities, this versatile tea can prevent dryness of the scalp and prevent dandruff, while also delivering rich antioxidants and minerals to the hair, strengthening the follicles, and improving the appearance of your hair. This tea has also been praised for its ability to stop hair loss, both when consumed as a tea and when topically applied.

Immune System

Upper respiratory infections can be persistent and difficult to get over, but licorice root tea can quickly cut through the phlegm and mucus, soothing inflammation in the throat, and giving the immune system a boost to eliminate the underlying bacteria or pathogen. The antioxidants found in this tea are also integral to the body’s defenses against illness.

Diuretic Effect

By stimulating urination, licorice root tea can help detoxify the body. This has impressive effects on the liver. Urination eliminates excess salts, fats, toxins, and water from the body, relieving strain on the kidneys and bladder. However, since this tea does have diuretic and laxative effects, drinking too much can cause dehydration and other negative side effects. [8]

How to Make Licorice Root Tea

You can make licorice root tea at home with dried licorice root, hot water, and any natural sweetener if desired. However, it is important to speak with your doctor before using this tea, as it can have a number of side effects and interactions with various medications or medical conditions. Dried licorice root can be purchased from any natural food store and is widely available around the world.

Side Effects of Licorice Root Tea

There are quite a few possible side effects when drinking licorice root tea in excess. Some types of licorice will contain a compound called glycyrrhizin, which can cause everything from headaches and fatigue to high blood pressure and heart attacks. These severe symptoms usually occur when a large amount of glycyrrhizin is consumed. Additionally, there are other risks that can affect certain groups of people depending on their medical history and present health conditions.

• Pregnancy – Licorice root should never be consumed when pregnant as the potentially toxic substances in licorice root can increase the risk of miscarriage by affecting hormone levels and stimulating menstruation. Furthermore, breastfeeding mothers should avoid the use of this tea and children should also not be given this herbal remedy.
• Drug Interactions – A number of drug interactions have been reported by those using licorice root tea, including complications with antidepressants and blood pressure medications. In the former, your symptoms may worsen when combined with this herbal tea, while those using blood pressure medications may experience a build-up of potassium in the body, which can be dangerous. Women taking birth control or other oral contraceptives often experience high blood pressure when drinking this tea.
• Water Retention – One of the most common side effects of drinking a large amount of this tea is water retention, as this is an astringent substance. This can manifest as bloating or edema in the legs, torso or ankles, and can cause inflammation, pain, and discomfort.
• Hormonal Issues – The hormones of both men and women can be affected by licorice root tea. In women, this can mean estrogen-related conditions. In men, it can result in a drop in testosterone levels, infertility, and erectile dysfunction.