Licorice is cultivated in Turkey, Greece, and Asia, and has been used for centuries due to its medicinal properties, as it contains compounds that help combat oxidation, inflammation, and microbes.
Studies indicate that licorice extract may help reduce fat by inhibiting the enzyme 11HSD1, which plays a role in converting the stress hormone cortisol into cortisone.
A clinical trial showed that participants who consumed 3.5 grams of licorice daily for two months experienced a significant reduction in their fat levels.
Other studies revealed that consuming 900 mg of licorice flavonoid oil daily over eight weeks led to reductions in weight, body mass index, body fat, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels.
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Licorice can be consumed in various forms, such as fresh, as a dietary supplement, as tea, or in gummy candy form, while ensuring not to exceed 6 grams per day to guarantee safety.
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes the importance of avoiding excessive use, especially for individuals with high blood pressure, heart, or kidney conditions, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, due to the presence of glycyrrhizin which may cause side effects.
Licorice root interacts with a range of medications, including blood pressure medications, blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, diuretics, estrogen-containing contraceptives, and some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
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In general, moderate consumption of licorice supplements can be beneficial for the diet, but experts recommend consulting a doctor before adding it to a daily routine, especially for those with certain health conditions.