Black licorice comes from the root of a plant, and research suggests it may help reduce inflammation and soothe your digestive system

Black licorice is made from the root of the licorice plant, which grows in parts of Europe and Asia. Unlike candy licorice, which is often flavored with anise oil, true black licorice contains a compound called glycyrrhizin that gives it a distinctive bitter-sweet taste. People use it in teas, supplements, and traditional medicine because studies show it may calm inflammation in your gut and throat, though the effect is modest and works best alongside other approaches.

The plant has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years, particularly in Chinese and Ayurvedic practice. Modern research has focused on whether the compounds in licorice root actually do what people claim—and for some uses, the evidence is real enough that doctors take it seriously. For other uses, the research is still thin or mixed.

Key Takeaways

  • Black licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that may reduce inflammation in your digestive tract and throat.
  • The strongest evidence supports using licorice for heartburn and mouth ulcers, though it works best as part of a larger treatment plan.
  • Licorice can raise your blood pressure and cause potassium loss if you use it regularly or in large amounts, so it is not safe for everyone.
  • Black licorice supplements and teas are available without a prescription, but you should talk to your doctor before using them if you take blood pressure medication or have kidney problems.

How black licorice may reduce inflammation

Glycyrrhizin, the main active compound in licorice root, appears to work by calming your immune system's inflammatory response. When your stomach lining or throat is irritated, your body sends immune cells to the area, which causes swelling and discomfort. Research suggests glycyrrhizin may dial down this response, which is why people use licorice for conditions like acid reflux and sore throats.

The compound also seems to increase the production of mucus that protects your stomach lining, similar to how your body naturally defends itself. This dual action—reducing inflammation and boosting protection—is why licorice has shown promise in studies of people with heartburn and ulcers. However, the effect is usually mild to moderate, not a replacement for prescription medications if you have a serious condition.

What the research actually shows

Studies on licorice for heartburn and acid reflux have produced encouraging results. Several small trials found that people taking licorice extract alongside standard heartburn treatment saw faster symptom relief than those on medication alone. One commonly cited study involved deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), a processed form with most of the glycyrrhizin removed, and found it helped heal mouth ulcers when applied directly.

Research on licorice for other uses—like boosting immunity or treating cough—is much thinner. Some studies suggest it may help with cough in people with respiratory infections, but the evidence is not strong enough for doctors to recommend it as a first choice. For digestive issues beyond heartburn, the research is mixed and often involves very small groups of people.

Most studies on licorice involve short-term use, usually a few weeks. We know much less about what happens if you use it regularly for months or years.

Who should not use black licorice

Black licorice can raise your blood pressure and cause your body to lose potassium, a mineral your heart and muscles need. These effects happen because glycyrrhizin affects how your kidneys handle sodium and potassium. If you already take blood pressure medication, use licorice regularly, or eat a lot of licorice candy, you could end up with dangerously low potassium or high blood pressure without realizing it.

You should avoid black licorice if you have kidney disease, heart disease, or high blood pressure—unless your doctor says it is safe. Pregnant people should also avoid it, since some research suggests it may affect fetal development. If you take diuretics (water pills) or medications for heart rhythm, talk to your doctor before using licorice, because the combination can be risky.

Forms of black licorice and how people use it

Black licorice is sold as a dried root, tea, extract, capsule, or powder. The dried root can be steeped in hot water to make a tea, which is how many people use it for sore throats or digestive comfort. Extracts and capsules are more concentrated and easier to dose, but they also carry a higher risk of side effects if you use too much.

For heartburn or digestive discomfort, people typically use 1 to 2 grams of licorice root per day, either as a tea or in capsule form. For mouth ulcers, DGL lozenges or paste applied directly to the sore are common. Most people use licorice for short periods—a few weeks—rather than as a long-term daily supplement. If you are considering it, start with a small amount to see how your body responds.

How black licorice compares to other anti-inflammatory herbs

Black licorice works differently than ginger or turmeric, which reduce inflammation throughout your body. Licorice is more targeted to your digestive tract and throat, making it a better choice if your inflammation is localized to those areas. Ginger is gentler on blood pressure and potassium, so it may be safer if you have heart or kidney concerns.

Unlike chamomile, which is mainly calming, licorice has a direct anti-inflammatory effect backed by research. However, chamomile is safer for long-term use and does not carry the blood pressure risks. Many people use licorice and other herbs together—for example, licorice tea with ginger and honey for a sore throat—because they work through different mechanisms.

What to know before you start using black licorice

If you are thinking about using black licorice, the first step is to tell your doctor, especially if you take any medications or have a chronic health condition. This is not because licorice is dangerous in small amounts, but because the combination with certain medications or conditions can create real risks. Your doctor can tell you whether it is safe for you and what dose makes sense.

Start with a small amount—a cup of tea or one capsule—and pay attention to how you feel. If you notice swelling in your legs, unusual thirst, or a change in how you feel, stop using it and contact your doctor. Natural does not mean risk-free, especially if you use it regularly or in large amounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is black licorice candy the same as licorice root for health?

No. Most licorice candy in the United States is flavored with anise oil and contains little to no actual licorice root. Real black licorice for health purposes comes from the plant root itself, sold as tea, extract, or capsules. Candy licorice will not give you the anti-inflammatory benefits you are looking for.

Can I use black licorice if I have high blood pressure?

You should not use it without talking to your doctor first. Black licorice can raise blood pressure and cause potassium loss, which is especially risky if you already have high blood pressure or take medication for it. Your doctor can tell you whether it is safe in your situation and at what dose.

How long does it take to feel the effects of black licorice?

For heartburn or sore throat, most people notice improvement within a few days to a week of regular use. The effect is usually mild, not dramatic. If you do not feel better after two weeks, it may not be working for you, and you should try a different approach or talk to your doctor.

Can I use black licorice long-term?

Most research supports short-term use only, usually a few weeks. Long-term daily use increases the risk of high blood pressure and potassium loss. If you want to use licorice regularly, talk to your doctor about monitoring your blood pressure and potassium levels.

Does black licorice interact with other medications?

Yes. Licorice can interact with blood pressure medications, diuretics, and heart medications. It may also affect how your body processes certain other drugs. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any herbs or supplements you are using, including black licorice.