The US Food and Drug Administration warns moderation on licorice, or liquorice, a low-growing shrub mostly grown for commercial use in Greece, Turkey, and Asia. It is in black licorice and has been used as a treatment for heartburn, stomach ulcers, bronchitis, sore throat, cough and some infections caused by viruses, such as hepatitis. Licorice contains the compound glycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhizin can lower potassium levels, and cause abnormal heart rhythms, high blood pressure, edema (swelling), lethargy, and congestive heart failure. It can interact with some medications, herbs and dietary supplements. Many “licorice” or “licorice flavor” products manufactured in the US do not contain any licorice. Instead, they contain anise oil, which has the same smell and taste. If you have been eating a lot of black licorice and have an irregular heart rhythm or muscle weakness, stop eating it immediately and contact your healthcare provider. Source: https://www.fda.gov/
