Glycyrrhizin adverse effects

The most widely reported side effect of glycyrrhizin use via consumption of black licorice is reduction of blood potassium levels, which can affect body fluid balance and function of nerves.⁵⁶ Chronic consumption of black licorice, even in moderate amounts, is associated with an increase in blood pressure,⁶ may cause irregular heart rhythm, and adverse interactions with prescription medicines.⁵

The effects on body fluids are related to the inhibition of cortisol metabolism within the kidney, subsequent stimulation of the mineralocorticoid receptors,⁷ and decrease in blood levels of renin, potassium, and aldosterone, which collectively lead to increases in blood pressure.⁶

Depending on amount and frequency of ingesting black licorice, other side effects may include:⁵⁸

• Edema
• Lethargy
• Headache
• Paralysis
• Transient visual loss
• Torsades de pointes
• Tachycardia
• Cardiac arrest
• Reduced testosterone
• Premature birth
• Acute kidney failure
• Muscle weakness
• Myopathy
• Myoglobinuria
• Rhabdomyolysis
• Increased body weight