Fatigue, Night Sweats & Hormonal Balance

Licorice – Between Tradition and Science 🌿

1. Introduction to Licorice
2. Health Benefits and Uses
3. Licorice and Menopause
4. Dosages and Safety
5. Contraindications
6. Research and Useful Links

1. Introduction to Licorice 🌱

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a medicinal root known for its naturally sweet taste and centuries-old use in traditional herbal medicine. Today, it is used in teas, lozenges, and supplements, with growing interest in its potential role in hormone regulation and menopause support.

2. Health Benefits and Uses 💪

Licorice offers several therapeutic effects:

• Anti-inflammatory: It may help reduce inflammation and support immune health.

• Digestive Aid: Commonly used to relieve heartburn, ulcers, and indigestion.

• Adaptogenic Support: May help the body manage stress.

3. Licorice and Menopause 🌸

Licorice contains phytoestrogens, plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen. These may help ease menopausal symptoms such as:

• Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

• Mood Swings and Anxiety

• Hormonal Imbalance

🔬 A clinical trial published in the Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research found that licorice significantly reduced the frequency and severity of hot flashes.

Another study in Phytotherapy Research suggested licorice extract may improve estrogenic activity and reduce menopausal discomfort.

4. Dosages and Safety ⚖️🚫

• Tea: 1 to 2 cups of licorice root tea per day.

• Extracts/Supplements: Typically 300–500 mg daily. Always follow product guidelines.

⚠️ Avoid prolonged use (more than 4–6 weeks) without medical supervision, as licorice can influence hormone levels and blood pressure.

5. Contraindications ⚠️

Licorice is not recommended for everyone. Use caution if you have:

• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

• Heart Disease

• Kidney Disorders

• Pregnancy or Breastfeeding (consult a healthcare provider)

• Ongoing medication use (licorice may interact with diuretics, cortico-steroids, and blood pressure medications)

6. Research and Useful Links 🔍

Explore further scientific research:

• NIH on Licorice Root

• WebMD – Licorice: Uses, Side Effects, Safety

• PubMed Study – Licorice in Hot Flash Management

Some great combinations to take with licorice root are Black Cohosh, Maca root, Ashwagandha and Magnesium.

✅ Conclusion

Licorice in menopause shows promise as a natural remedy for symptom relief, especially for hot flashes and hormonal support. However, it must be used with caution due to its potential effects on blood pressure and hormones.
As always, consult with a qualified health professional before starting a new supplement.