Of course! Licorice root (often spelled “liquorice” outside the US) is a powerhouse ingredient in both traditional medicine and modern skincare. It’s far more than just a candy flavor—it’s a versatile herb with a wide range of benefits, particularly for the skin.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the benefits of licorice root.
Licorice Root: The Skin-Soothing & Brightening Powerhouse
Licorice root extract is a staple in many high-quality skincare products, praised for its ability to calm irritation and even out skin tone. Its active compounds, primarily glabridin, make it a gentle yet effective solution for a variety of skin concerns.
Top Benefits for Skin
1. Soothes Inflammation and Redness (The #1 Benefit)
Licorice root is renowned for its strong anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it ideal for:
- Calming conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.
- Reducing the redness and swelling associated with acne.
- Soothing general skin irritation and sensitivity.
2. Brightens Skin and Fades Hyperpigmentation
This is one of its most celebrated effects. Licorice root is a brilliant, natural alternative to harsh brightening agents.
- How it works: The compound glabridin inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for producing melanin (skin pigment). By slowing down melanin production, it helps:
- Fade dark spots, sun spots, and age spots.
- Reduce the appearance of melasma and post-acne marks.
- Create a more even, radiant complexion without the irritation that stronger ingredients like hydroquinone can cause.
3. Powerful Antioxidant Protection
Licorice root is rich in antioxidants that help protect the skin from free radical damage caused by UV radiation and pollution.
- This protection helps prevent premature aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.
4. Has Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties
These properties help fight the bacteria that cause acne, making licorice root a beneficial ingredient in cleansers and treatments for acne-prone skin.
5. Boosts the Efficacy of Other Ingredients
In skincare, licorice root is often used to complement other active ingredients. Its soothing nature can help counteract the potential irritation from stronger ingredients like retinol or vitamin C, making them more tolerable for sensitive skin.
Internal Health Benefits of Licorice Root
When used as a supplement or tea, licorice root offers several health benefits, but these come with important cautions.
1. Soothes Digestive Issues
- Traditionally used to relieve heartburn, indigestion, and stomach ulcers. Its anti-inflammatory properties can calm the digestive tract.
2. Supports Respiratory Health
- Its expectorant and soothing properties make it a common ingredient in natural remedies for sore throats, coughs, and bronchitis.
3. Adrenal Support
- In traditional medicine, it’s used to support adrenal gland function and help with energy and stress response, though this use requires professional guidance.
Important Cautions and Side Effects
This is crucial, especially for internal use. The compound glycyrrhizin in licorice root can cause serious side effects when consumed in large amounts or over long periods.
- For Internal Use (Tea, Supplements):
- High Blood Pressure: Glycyrrhizin can cause potassium levels to drop and sodium to be retained, leading to high blood pressure (hypertension).
- Fluid Retention and Swelling.
- Drug Interactions: It can interact with blood pressure medications, diuretics, blood thinners, and corticosteroids.
- Not for Everyone: Avoid if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have heart, kidney, or liver disease.
- Solution: Look for DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice): For digestive benefits, DGL is a processed form of licorice that has the glycyrrhizin removed, making it much safer for consumption.
- For Topical Use (On Skin):
- Generally considered very safe and non-irritating.
- As with any new skincare ingredient, a patch test is recommended to rule out any rare allergic reactions.
How to Use Licorice Root
| Method | How to Use | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Topical (Skincare) | Look for serums, creams, and spot treatments containing “licorice root extract.” | Targeting hyperpigmentation, redness, and acne directly. |
| Licorice Tea | Steep the root in hot water. Enjoy in moderation (1-2 cups daily). | Soothing a sore throat or upset stomach. |
| DGL Supplements | Chewable tablets taken before meals. | Supporting digestive health safely. |
Summary: Key Takeaways
- For Skin: Licorice root is a gentle, multi-tasking hero for soothing inflammation, brightening dark spots, and providing antioxidant protection. It’s a fantastic ingredient for sensitive, acne-prone, or hyperpigmented skin.
- For Health: While it offers internal benefits, caution is paramount. Long-term or high-dose consumption of standard licorice root can be dangerous. Always opt for DGL for internal digestive use and consult a healthcare provider first.