Posted by Sunnely on February 24, 2001, at 21:32:11
In reply to Re:Stimulant effect of Licorice Extract:, posted by Stephany on February 24, 2001, at 14:45:57
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), is used for inflammation of the upper respiratory tract mucous membranes, gastric and duodenal ulcers, bronchitis, chronic gastritis, colic, primary adrenocortical insufficiency, dry cough, arthritis, lupus, and as antibacterial and antiviral agent. It is also used to treat cholestatic liver disorders, hypokalemia (low potassium), and hypertonia. Topically, licorice is used as a shampoo to reduce sebum secretion. Intravenously, licorice components are used for treating hepatitis B and C. In combination with Panax ginseng and Bupleurum flacatum, licorice is used orally to help stimulate adrenal gland function particularly in patients with a history of long-term corticosteroid use. As a component of the herbal formula, Shakuyaku-kanzo-To, licorice is used to increase fertility in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. In combination with seven other herbs, licorice is used in PC-SPES to treat prostate cancer. In Chinese medicine, licorice is used for sore throats, abdominal pain, infectious hepatitis, malaria, tuberculosis, sores, abscesses, food poisoning, diabetes insipidus, and contact dermatitis. Licorice is used as a flavoring in foods, beverages, and tobacco.
The use of licorice can cause amenorrhea (stoppage of menses). Large amounts of licorice, more than 50 grams per day, or chronic use longer than six weeks can cause pseudoaldosteronism, of which symptoms include hypertension, lethargy, headache, sodium and water retention, and edema. Pseudoaldosteronism can lead to increased blood pressure, hypokalemia (low potassium), hypokalemic myopathy (muscle weakness), rhabdomyolysis (muscle cell destruction), myoglobinuria (muscle cells in urine), severe congestive heart failure with pulmonary edema, lower extremity weakness, hypertensive encephalopathy, and quadriplegia. The chronic consumption of large amounts of licorice candy has caused hypermineralocorticoidism. Because licorice can decrease serum testosterone and increase 17-hydroxyprogesterone, it might cause decreased libido and sexual dysfunction in men. Chewing tobacco flavored with licorice has also been associated with toxicity.
Avoid in pregnancy and breast feeding. Licorice is unsafe when used in pregnancy. Licorice can induce abortion. There are insufficient reliable information available with regard to use of licorice during lactation.
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> > Does anyone know anything about reactions to Licorice extract? I understand that it is used quite commonly in Europe as a food additive in a prue form. I have recently returned from a trip overseas where I experienced a hypertensive crisis which sent me to the hospital. At this point I am trying to determine causitive factors. Any information would be helpful. Thanks Stephany
poster:Sunnely
thread:27596
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