Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long-standing history in traditional medicine—from soothing digestion to calming the mind. But today, it’s gaining renewed interest for a more modern problem: weight management, blood sugar balance, and food cravings.
In this guide, you’ll discover how licorice works, the compounds behind its effects, how to use it safely, and why some modern formulas combine it with glucomannan for synergistic support.
What Makes Licorice Root Unique?
Licorice isn’t just sweet—it’s pharmacologically active. Its most notable compounds include:
- Glycyrrhizin: A triterpenoid saponin linked to cortisol regulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and appetite modulation.
- Glabridin: A flavonoid shown to support fat metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
- Liquiritigenin: Has mild estrogenic effects, which may support hormonal balance in women.
Licorice acts on multiple metabolic and hormonal pathways—making it especially valuable for those struggling with cravings, fatigue, and stubborn belly fat.
How Licorice Supports Weight Loss and Metabolic Health
1. Reduces Cravings by Modulating Cortisol
Emotional eating and sugar cravings are often linked to stress. Licorice has been shown to moderate cortisol, your body’s primary stress hormone. Lower cortisol can reduce belly fat accumulation and promote more stable hunger signals.
📚 Study Insight: A study in Steroids (2003) found that subjects who took licorice extract had reduced cortisol breakdown, supporting more stable adrenal function and mood.
2. Supports Fat Metabolism
Licorice flavonoids like glabridin have shown the ability to stimulate fat oxidation and improve lipid profiles. This may help reduce visceral fat over time—especially when combined with calorie control.
📚 Animal Study: In Journal of Health Science (2003), glabridin reduced body fat accumulation in obese mice fed a high-fat diet.
3. Balances Blood Sugar and Insulin
Licorice can inhibit enzymes involved in carbohydrate digestion, leading to slower glucose absorption. This reduces post-meal blood sugar spikes and may lower overall insulin demand.
📚 Human Study: A small clinical trial (J Endocrinol Invest, 2002) found that glycyrrhetinic acid helped improve insulin sensitivity in overweight individuals.
4. Mild Appetite Suppression
By influencing adrenal function and stabilizing blood sugar, licorice may help you feel more satisfied between meals—without the need for stimulants or appetite blockers.
Why Some Formulas Combine Licorice with Glucomannan
Licorice’s hormonal and blood sugar effects work upstream, helping reduce stress-related eating and improve insulin balance. But on its own, it may not create enough satiety to prevent overeating.
That’s why some advanced formulas combine licorice extract with glucomannan, a soluble fiber that physically expands in the stomach to reduce appetite.
👉 Licorice + Glucomannan = Behavioral + Biological Satiety
-
Licorice modulates cortisol, mood, and glucose
-
Glucomannan fills the stomach and slows digestion
📘 Curious how it works together? See the full formula, dosage, and scientific references before trying. Explore This Synergistic Supplement
How to Take Licorice for Weight Loss
| Form | Dosage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Licorice root extract | 150–500 mg/day | Standardized to 10–20% glycyrrhizin or deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) if avoiding cortisol effects |
| Combination formulas | Varies | Often combined with glucomannan, cinnamon, or berberine |
| Tea (whole root) | 1–3 g | Less precise dosage; avoid daily use if sensitive to blood pressure |
- Long-term use of high-dose glycyrrhizin can raise blood pressure and potassium loss.
- Consider DGL licorice for gut support without affecting cortisol.
- Always consult a healthcare provider if using licorice alongside blood pressure meds, steroids, or diuretics.
Who Might Benefit Most from Licorice?
Licorice root may be especially helpful if you:
- Struggle with stress-induced snacking or sugar cravings
- Experience energy crashes or blood sugar swings
- Have stubborn belly fat tied to cortisol imbalance
- Are seeking natural metabolic support without harsh stimulants
- Want to support adrenal function or hormone balance during perimenopause
FAQs About Licorice for Weight and Blood Sugar
Is licorice good for weight loss?
It may support weight loss indirectly—by reducing stress-related eating, stabilizing blood sugar, and enhancing fat metabolism. It works best when combined with dietary fiber like glucomannan.
Can licorice raise blood pressure?
Yes, high doses of glycyrrhizin can. Choose DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) licorice if you’re concerned or have a history of hypertension.
Is licorice safe to take daily?
Moderate doses for short periods are generally safe. Long-term daily use should be supervised, especially with full-spectrum licorice (not DGL).
Is licorice estrogenic?
Licorice contains mild phytoestrogens like liquiritigenin, which may support hormonal balance in women. However, consult your doctor if you have hormone-sensitive conditions.
Final Thoughts: A Smart Herb for Cravings, Stress & Glucose
Licorice root isn’t a magic fat burner—but it may play a smart supporting role in your weight loss journey. By working on stress, cravings, and blood sugar, it complements other natural strategies like fiber intake, metabolic support, and healthy habits.
✅ Want to See How Licorice Fits Into a Full-Body Supplement?
Before buying, review the formula, science, and usage instructions.
No hype—just evidence-based insight to help you make the best choice.
👉 See Supplement Details & Clinical Data