Liquorice might seem like a harmless treat or a healthy herbal ingredient – but having too much can actually cause high blood pressure and affect your heart health. Whether you’re eating liquorice sweets or sipping liquorice tea, it’s worth knowing what it can do to your body.
Why Too Much Liquorice Can Be a Problem
Liquorice contains a natural chemical called glycyrrhizin. In large amounts, this can affect the way your body handles certain hormones. It tricks your kidneys into holding onto salt and water, while getting rid of too much potassium. This can lead to:
- High blood pressure
- Low potassium levels
- Tiredness
- Muscle cramps
- In more serious cases, even irregular heartbeats
Doctors call this effect pseudo-hyperaldosteronism – your body acts like it has too much of a hormone called aldosterone, even when it doesn’t.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Anyone can be affected, but you’re more at risk if:
- You already have high blood pressure
- You take diuretics (;’water tables’) or medications that affect your potassium
- You use herbal teas or supplements with liquorice regularly
- You’re older or have kidney problems
Even moderate amounts of liquorice over a couple of weeks can cause symptoms in sensitive people. And often, people don’t realise how much they’re consuming.
What to Look Out For
If you’ve been eating liquorice or taking liquorice-based products and notice:
- New or worsening high blood pressure
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue or headaches
- Or a doctor tells you your potassium is low
— it’s a good idea to mention the liquorice. It could be the missing link.
What to Do About It
- Stop consuming liquorice (including sweets, teas, and herbal products)
- Get your blood pressure and potassium checked
- Most people feel better within a few days once they stop
- In more serious cases, your doctor might prescribe a medication like spironolactone to help balance things out
The Bottom Line
Liquorice is fine in small amounts now and then – but regular or large quantities can be harmful, especially for your heart and blood pressure. Always check the label on herbal teas, supplements, or natural remedies, and speak to a GP if you’re unsure.
At OneMedicine, we’re here to help if you have concerns about blood pressure, heart health, or anything else. Book an appointment today – online or in person.
