While ingestion of large amounts of licorice over weeks can cause hypertension, a clinical study conducted at Italy’s University of Padua demonstrated that using a topical cream containing the bioactive component of licorice root (glycyrrhetinic acid) can diminish the appearance of cellulite. One month of twice-daily application reduced the fat layer in the treated thigh by over 10%. Doctors believe that the glycyrrhetinic acid in licorice decreases the fat-storing effects of the stress-hormone cortisol, Licorice’s anti-inflammatory properties also protect against the degradation of collagen in the septae that keep the fat cells from pushing through to the surface.⁹

• Suggested dosage: The cream used in the study contained 2.5% glycyrrhetinic acid.(9) Oral adult doses of licorice are 250-500 mg of standardized extract (20% glycyrrhetinic acid) or 1-5 grams of dried licorice root made into a tea three times a day.¹⁵
• Precautions: Extended ingestion of licorice can cause pseudoaldosteronism, a condition where a person is over-sensitized to adrenal hormones. This condition can lead to hypertension and even a heart attack. If you do decide to try licorice in supplemental form, do not take recommended dosages for more than one week without the advice of your doctor. If you already have high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney, liver, or heart disease you should not take licorice.¹⁵