Liquorice Tincture – Benefits, Properties & Contraindications

Liquorice tincture is a well-known natural remedy that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The preparation is valued for its sweet taste and anti-inflammatory properties. Yet as with many potent plants, the benefits come hand in hand with certain contraindications.

Wondering when liquorice tincture might help and who can safely use it? Read on to discover what benefits it genuinely offers, how to take it and which risks you shouldn't ignore.

What is liquorice

Liquorice, known scientifically as Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a perennial plant prized in phytotherapy above all for its therapeutic properties. Native to the warm regions of Asia and the Mediterranean, it has a herbaceous stem, dark green compound leaves and purple-blue flowers.

The therapeutically valuable part of the liquorice plant is its long taproot with a woody structure, yellow inside and brown outside. For thousands of years it has been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, as well as in European traditions, to treat a variety of complaints. Aromatic, rich in active compounds and with marked anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties, it has been used to treat and prevent eczema, ulcers, reflux and other health problems.

Its active compounds include:

• Glycyrrhizic acid, responsible for the sweet taste (around 50 times sweeter than ordinary sugar) and for the anti-inflammatory effect.
• Flavonoids, with antioxidant and cell-protective action.
• Polysaccharides, which support the immune system and soothe the mucous membranes.
• Triterpene saponins, which help to thin secretions and act as an expectorant.

What is liquorice tincture

Liquorice tincture is a concentrated hydroalcoholic extract obtained by macerating the dried root in an alcohol-water solution. The maceration process usually takes a few weeks, during which the alcohol efficiently draws out the active compounds, resulting in a product that acts quickly and has high bioavailability.

The tincture typically has a standard concentration of 1:5, is made with 40–50% ethyl alcohol and usually comes in easy-to-measure 50 ml bottles. This form is particularly favoured for supporting digestion, soothing irritated mucous membranes and easing respiratory complaints.

Compared with tea or powder, the tincture stands out for its higher bioavailability, meaning it can be absorbed more quickly. The concentration of active compounds is more stable in this form, allowing for a more intense effect and visible results even at lower doses.

Benefits and properties of liquorice tincture

Liquorice tincture is regarded as a complex plant extract thanks to its unique combination of active compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. For this reason it is used in phytotherapy, in cosmetics and to support the immune system.

Its properties can vary depending on the concentration, but broadly speaking the benefits relate to the respiratory tract, the digestive system, hormonal balance, the immune system and skin health.

Even so, further research is needed to obtain conclusive results. Always speak to a specialist before using liquorice tincture if you have any medical condition.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of liquorice tincture

Liquorice tincture is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and protect the body against oxidative stress.

Certain studies have shown that glycyrrhizin and other root constituents may lower systemic inflammation, thereby helping to ease chronic conditions such as arthritis. At the same time, the plant's flavonoids act as natural antioxidants, neutralising free radicals and protecting cells from damage.

Thanks to these properties, the tincture can be used as a supportive measure in conditions where inflammation and oxidative stress play a significant role – including some autoimmune disorders or situations in which the body is exposed to prolonged metabolic stress.

Benefits of liquorice tincture for the respiratory tract

Another well-known effect of liquorice is its expectorant and demulcent action. Even in antiquity it was used for coughs, bronchitis, colds and even asthma attacks. Some animal studies even link glycyrrhizin extract from liquorice with positive results in the treatment of asthma.

The tincture also helps to thin bronchial secretions and make them easier to clear, and its anti-inflammatory action helps to soothe throat irritation.

Liquorice tincture has benefits for the digestive system

Because of its protective properties for the digestive lining, liquorice extract has long been used to ease gastritis, indigestion and reflux.

Study findings on its effect on gastric inflammation are promising, but more research is needed. If you have digestive problems, it's important to seek your doctor's advice.

Liquorice tincture has antiviral and antimicrobial effects

Glycyrrhizin, one of the key active compounds in liquorice extract, has been highlighted in studies for its ability to inhibit the replication of viruses such as HSV (herpes), HBV (hepatitis B) and even some SARS-CoV strains. Thanks to its antiviral and antimicrobial action, the tincture is often used to help prevent seasonal viral infections and strengthen the immune response.

Liquorice tincture has hormonal benefits and benefits for women's health

Liquorice flavonoids can interact with the body's oestrogen receptors and exert a mild oestrogenic effect. The tincture may therefore help to regulate cortisol levels and is frequently used to support the body during chronic fatigue, the menopause or premenstrual syndrome.

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory action, the tincture may also help to relieve period pain. Likewise, using menstrual products made from 100% organic cotton without harsh chemicals can support daily comfort and hormonal balance.

The benefits of liquorice tincture for the skin

Liquorice is also widely used in cosmetics for its soothing and brightening properties. The root of this plant contains over 300 compounds whose anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral effects have been demonstrated in studies.

The tincture is therefore found in various natural products for treating skin conditions such as acne, pigmentation marks and eczema. Applied topically – only when diluted or incorporated into lotions, creams or masks – it helps to even out skin tone and reduce redness.

How to use liquorice tincture

Liquorice tincture is a concentrated extract and can be used both internally and externally, depending on your goal. The dose, method of use and duration depend on the purpose, your age and your general state of health. Correct use is important if you are to benefit from its therapeutic effects without risk.

You should also be aware that there is not yet sufficient scientific evidence to confirm with certainty the therapeutic effects of liquorice tincture – whether taken as a tea, cream or other natural remedy. Always speak to your doctor and decide on a suitable course of treatment together.

Internal use of liquorice tincture 

Taken internally, the tincture is usually diluted in water and may help with symptoms such as coughs and respiratory irritation, fatigue during periods of stress and overwork, or sluggish digestion and stomach discomfort.

The usual dose is 10 to 30 drops diluted in water, no more than two to three times a day – though recommendations can vary. For sensitive individuals, the dose is increased gradually. Courses are recommended for short periods of two to three weeks, followed by breaks.

External use of liquorice tincture

• Dilute in water and apply to inflamed skin or pigmentation marks
• Add to natural creams and facial toners

For external use, the tincture is usually diluted in water and applied with a cotton pad to inflamed skin or to pigmentation marks. It can also be blended into cosmetic products such as natural creams, masks, serums or toners for a soothing, balancing effect.

Other forms of liquorice

As well as the liquid tincture, liquorice can be used in numerous other forms. The most common include:

• Liquorice tea: the dried root pieces are covered with hot water and left to steep for a few minutes; the tea can then be drunk for its demulcent, soothing effect to ease respiratory or digestive complaints.
• Capsules and tablets: suitable for a concentrated, controlled intake to support the immune system and reduce inflammation.
• Liquorice powder: can be stirred into water, juices, smoothies, soups or other drinks and thus incorporated into your daily diet.
• Syrup and liquid extract: liquorice can be combined with other ingredients to make aromatic syrups that soothe coughs or sore throats.

Precautions and contraindications of liquorice tincture

Although it is associated with many benefits, liquorice tincture can affect blood pressure and hormonal balance. Caution and medical advice regarding dosage and duration of use are therefore essential.

Liquorice is contraindicated for:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: the safety of taking it during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been sufficiently studied or established, so it should be avoided to prevent miscarriage, premature birth or other complications.
• People with arterial hypertension or cardiovascular disease: liquorice can raise blood pressure and worsen heart failure by increasing fluid retention.
• Patients with breast, ovarian or uterine cancer, fibroids or other hormone-sensitive conditions: because of liquorice's oestrogenic effect.
• Patients with kidney problems: excessive or long-term consumption can lead to kidney problems.
• People with sexual dysfunction: consumed in large quantities, liquorice tincture can lower testosterone levels and worsen erectile dysfunction or other sexual problems.
• People prone to allergic reactions: some people may react allergically and experience itching, swelling and skin rashes after taking liquorice.
• Patients due to undergo surgery: it is advisable to inform your doctor and stop taking it at least two weeks before the procedure to avoid any effect on blood pressure during the operation.

Taken in high doses or over long periods, the tincture can cause side effects such as raised blood pressure, fluid retention, a drop in potassium levels, headaches, fatigue, palpitations or increased hormonal sensitivity.

Liquorice should therefore only be taken for short periods and with breaks. Avoid combining it with alcohol and stimulants, and do not use it alongside blood pressure medication or other oestrogen-containing products without medical advice. To identify any possible allergic reactions, test your tolerance during the first few days.

Practical tips for using liquorice tincture

For optimal results, the tincture can be combined with a balanced diet and with other plants that have complementary effects. Liquorice can be paired, for example, with echinacea tincture to support the immune system, with sage for digestion, or with propolis for antiviral and anti-inflammatory action.

Alongside this, an anti-inflammatory, largely alkaline diet can enhance the effect of liquorice tincture while you are taking it. Such a diet means avoiding sugar and highly processed foods and eating more green vegetables, fruit and foods such as ginger or turmeric.

Alcohol is contraindicated during the course, as it can interact with the alcoholic extracts in the tincture and overburden the liver. Excessive coffee consumption should also be avoided, as it can worsen anxiety, dehydration and inflammation.

Frequently asked questions about liquorice tincture

Liquorice tincture is a natural remedy with thousands of years of traditional use behind it. While that tradition gives it a certain appeal, modern medicine now allows us to view such preparations more precisely and safely, and to assess their effectiveness against the available scientific data.

For a large proportion of the benefits attributed to it, there is as yet no sufficiently robust scientific evidence to fully confirm its effectiveness. It is therefore important to take it with care – particularly if you have underlying conditions or are receiving medical treatment.

We hope the answers below help you better understand how this preparation is used and when it should be avoided. Do bear in mind, however, that this information is no substitute for medical advice. Speak to a specialist before starting a course to make sure the tincture is suitable and safe for you.

What are the benefits of liquorice tincture for coughs?

Liquorice tincture can act as a natural expectorant by thinning bronchial secretions and soothing throat irritation. It may help with tickly coughs, bronchitis, colds or mild respiratory conditions.

Is liquorice tincture safe during pregnancy?

Liquorice tincture is contraindicated during pregnancy, as it can affect hormone levels and blood pressure and increase the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. The alcohol in the tincture is also not advisable for pregnant women.

How should the tincture be taken for gastritis?

For gastritis, the tincture can be taken diluted in water, in small doses and over short periods, around 30 minutes before meals. It's important to note, however, that the scientific evidence for its therapeutic effect is limited. Taking it cannot replace appropriate treatment and should always be discussed with your doctor beforehand.

Can liquorice tincture be used on pigmentation marks?

Yes. Applied externally, liquorice tincture can help to fade pigmentation marks, reduce redness and calm inflammation. It can be applied diluted as a toner or incorporated into creams, masks, serums or natural lotions.

How long does a course of liquorice tincture last?

A typical course lasts around two to three weeks, followed by a break. Continuous long-term use is not recommended because of the risk of fluid retention and raised blood pressure.

H3: What are the contraindications of liquorice tincture?

The tincture is contraindicated in cases of arterial hypertension, cardiovascular or kidney disease, hormone-sensitive conditions, pregnancy and breastfeeding, allergic reactions, sexual dysfunction and before surgery.

What is the difference between a tincture and a liquid extract?

A tincture is a hydroalcoholic extract obtained by maceration. A liquid extract may be alcohol-free and is sometimes more concentrated. The tincture is absorbed quickly but is not suitable for people who avoid alcohol.

H3: Can liquorice tincture raise blood pressure?

Yes. Excessive or prolonged consumption can raise blood pressure because of the glycyrrhizin, which promotes the retention of water and sodium.

Tea or tincture – which is more effective?

Liquorice tincture has higher bioavailability and works faster than tea, as the active compounds are extracted in greater concentration. Tea, however, is the gentler option and is better suited to everyday use.

Can liquorice tincture help with chronic fatigue syndrome?

Yes, the tincture can offer support during periods of exhaustion, stress or overwork, as it helps to regulate cortisol levels and strengthens the immune system. It is not, however, a substitute for a medical assessment if symptoms persist.

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