Using Licorice for Adrenal Fatigue and Stress

Licorice: many of us know it as a tasty flavoring for sweets. However, licorice root has been used for centuries to treat a number of illnesses, from digestive complaints to stress and anxiety. Long underappreciated, licorice is experiencing a resurgence in popularity because of its ability to support healthy cortisol levels and help with adrenal fatigue. 

Licorice Uses & Benefits

Licorice, also known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a plant native to southern Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The roots of the licorice plant have long been prized for their medicinal properties. Since ancient Egypt, licorice has been used to sweeten drinks, candies, and medicines. It’s also been used to treat indigestion, fatigue, and a range of inflammatory disorders. 

The active component in licorice is glycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhizin is a saponin responsible for licorice’s sweet taste. It is also a potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial. 

Common uses for licorice root include: 

• Acid reflux
• Indigestion
• Peptic ulcers
• Cavity prevention
• Weight loss 
• Skin conditions (including Acne and Eczema)
• Anxiety
• Stress
• Adrenal Fatigue

What is Adrenal Fatigue?

Adrenal fatigue occurs as a result of chronic stress. The adrenal glands are two small glands located on top of the kidneys. Together, they are responsible for producing a number of essential hormones, especially hormones related to stress such as cortisol, adrenaline, noradrenaline, and DHEA. 

However, long-term stress caused by physical, emotional, or mental strain can result in adrenal insufficiency as the adrenal glands struggle to produce enough hormones to keep up with the body’s demands. This insufficiency, also known as adrenal fatigue, results in insufficient levels of cortisol and ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) leading to exhaustion, hair loss, insomnia, and changes in weight. 

Licorice and the HPA Axis

Licorice is particularly effective at supporting adrenal fatigue due to its effects on the HPA axis. The HPA axis is the communication system that links the hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands. Its main function is to coordinate the release of cortisol to moderate stress. The HPA axis is also responsible for activating the fight-or-flight response via adrenaline. 

Licorice has been shown to help the body maintain adequate cortisol levels due to the way glycyrrhizin is processed in the kidneys. It’s believed that licorice inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, an enzyme that inactivates cortisol. By inhibiting this enzyme in the kidneys, cortisol is able to remain active within the body for longer periods of time, allowing the adrenal glands to rest. In cases of adrenal fatigue, this sort of rest allows the body to recover. 

Licorice Side Effects

While Licorice Root is generally recognized as safe by the FDA, in rare cases chronic use or overconsumption may lead to the toxic accumulation of glycyrrhizin in the body.

This may cause: 

• High Blood Pressure
• Low Potassium Levels
• Arrythmia 
• Kidney Failure
• Congestive Heart Failure
• Pulmonary Edema
  

Where to Buy Licorice Root Supplements

Looking for licorice supplements to help beat adrenal fatigue? Our top recommendation is Adrenal Complex from Standard Process. Made with organic Licorice Root and Rehmannia rhizome, Standard Process Adrenal Complex supports adrenal function the natural way. This potent combination helps restore the natural balance of important hormones cortisol and adrenaline while reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. You can find it here in our shop.