Licorice Root Cautions

An herbal remedy that I always keep on hand is Licorice Root. I prefer tincture form combined with other immune supporting herbs. Licorice root is a potent antiviral and is very soothing to mucous membranes and can help with coughs. It helps to clear phlegm. It is also used for stomach issues. If you plan to take licorice root in any form (tea, capsule, tincture, powder...) you need to know a few cautions about this potent herb. First of all, you don’t want to take this for a long period of time. No more than 4 to 6 weeks. I have read reports that this can stay in your blood for up to 72 hours and I will take it for five days on and skip two days and back on it for up to four weeks and then two weeks off. If you were to consume licorice root for a long period of time, you could develop dangerous potassium loss and bloating, muscle weakness and high blood pressure. If you already have high blood pressure and/or congestive heart disease, it is best to avoid this herb altogether. You want to stay safe and healthy and know that herbal remedies are very potent and even though it is all natural, there are times you need to limit and/or avoid certain herbs.