A: Licorice is a great adaptogen, and is one of the ingredients in the Adrenal Support by Rootcology recommended in this program. It contains an enzyme that increases circulating cortisol (rather than allowing it to be broken down into inactive cortisone). Keeping cortisol around longer prevents the body from stealing pregnenolone in order to make more cortisol, and may be helpful for adrenal insufficiency. It’s often helpful for those with low cortisol and low blood pressure. However, those with high blood pressure should avoid it.
Licorice is generally good to utilize in the morning, when the body’s cortisol is supposed to be highest. It’s not usually recommended with dinner or before bedtime, because the licorice is going to keep cortisol in your body for about 4 hours after you take it, and we want cortisol to be lower toward the end of the day to follow our body’s natural sleep/wake hormone cycles.
As for how much with standalone licorice extracts, you would want to follow the package instructions and work with your practitioner to determine appropriate dosing for your needs. Rootcology’s Adrenal Support contains 20 mg in each 3 capsule dose, and is recommended for 3 months to 2 years. But, standalone products may have different dosing and potency. You would want to start low and go slow. Dr. Wentz likes the BioMatrix drops, and has some information on advanced protocols for licorice in her Hashimoto’s Protocol book, based on adrenal saliva test cortisol readings: 5–10 drops taken 4 hours prior to low cortisol readings for 3–6 months.
Precautions include: Licorice can contribute to sodium and water retention and excretion of potassium, resulting in elevated blood pressure. That is why those with blood pressure shouldn’t take either licorice or the Adrenal Support supplement. It is also contraindicated for those with heart disease and kidney disease. Always discuss your current health condition and medications with your doctor before taking new supplements.
You may want to read this article by Dr. Wentz for additional information on uses and precautions.