Black Licorice: Effects, Benefits & Potential Risks - A Comprehensive Guide

Black licorice is a type of chewy candy flavored with licorice root extract. Licorice can be used as alternative or complementary treatments for a variety of conditions, although little evidence supports its effectiveness.

Licorice Plant

• The licorice plant is native to southern central Europe and Asia. The stems, or rhizomes, and root of the plant have been traditionally used in candies, teas and medications since ancient times.

Licorice Root

• Licorice root is used to flavor black licorice candy. The root has been used in alternative medicine to treat bronchitis, stomach ulcers and infections caused by viruses, such as hepatitis.

Licorice as a Treatment

• According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, although some research indicates that the glycyrrhizic acid in licorice may be beneficial for complications of hepatitis C, there is not enough scientific proof to confirm this or any present claim relating to licorice as a treatment.

Effect on Cancer

• Animal research suggests that licorice may be effective in treating some types of cancer, but no reliable human studies have been reported, according to the American Cancer Society.

Warning

• Regular licorice consumption is linked to high blood pressure, headaches, fatigue, and water retention, and in large amounts it has been known to cause heart failure and paralysis. Certain medications and conditions can make licorice dangerous to your health. Ask your doctor before using licorice as a treatment or supplement.