Who should not use liquorice root, and why?

Liquorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a substance that affects the tone of smooth muscle and may affect the water and salt balance with regular use. This is why liquorice is not a neutral plant for unrestricted, long-term use.

The product is not recommended in the following cases:

• pregnancy: glycyrrhizin may affect hormonal balance and uterine tone;
• breastfeeding: safety for the baby has not been established;
• individual sensitivity to the components of the plant; if an allergic reaction occurs during use, stop using it and see a doctor.

Particular attention should be paid to situations in which liquorice is best discussed with a specialist before you start taking it:

• a tendency to fluid retention or swelling;
• chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system, kidneys or liver;
• regular use of any medicines: glycyrrhizin can affect the metabolism of a number of drugs.

Even in the absence of contraindications, liquorice is not taken in courses without a break: this is a plant for occasional or time-limited use, not for daily long-term use.