Licorice Stick and Pregnant Women: Essential Precautions

The use of licorice root during pregnancy requires special attention due to potential risks for both mother and fetus. Health authorities strongly advise against its consumption during this sensitive period.

Why avoid licorice when pregnant?

Effects on blood pressure

Glycyrrhizin causes sodium retention and potassium loss. This action leads to high blood pressure with a risk of pre-eclampsia, increased leg and facial edema, dangerous cardiac overload, and placental vascular complications.

Hormonal impact

Licorice interferes with cortisol metabolism. It increases available cortisol, disrupts the hormone-pregnancy balance, creates a risk of premature birth, and impairs fetal development.

Risks for fetal development

Alarming scientific studies

Finnish research has shown that children exposed in utero to licorice have an average IQ 7 points lower, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders, early pubertal development in girls, and persistent behavioral problems.

Fetal mechanism of action

Glycyrrhizin crosses the placental barrier and inhibits the enzyme 11β-HSD2, which is supposed to protect the fetus from maternal cortisol. This excessive exposure to cortisol disrupts brain development.

Hazard thresholds

At-risk quantities

Studies identify risks starting from 100mg of glycyrrhizin per week (i.e., 2-3 sticks). Even low regular consumption presents dangers. Exposure during the first trimester is particularly critical.

Duration of exposure

Even occasional but repeated consumption presents risks. There is no established "safe threshold" for pregnancy.

Safe alternatives for pregnant women

Pregnancy nausea

Fresh ginger, limited to a maximum of 1g per day, has proven effectiveness. Vitamin B6 under medical supervision, soothing and safe lemon balm tea, and dry biscuits that provide mechanical relief from nausea are safe alternatives.

Gravidic digestive disorders

Fennel in light infusion relieves bloating. Chamomile has a gentle anti-inflammatory action. Lemon balm water is traditionally used. Probiotics balance intestinal flora.

Cough and sore throat

Thyme honey acts as a natural antibacterial. Propolis in lozenges or spray, eucalyptus inhalations to clear the airways, and simple and effective salt water gargles are advantageous replacements for licorice.

What to do in case of accidental consumption?

Occasional consumption

Don't panic, isolated consumption has few consequences. Stop all licorice intake immediately. Monitor blood pressure during the following days. Report to the doctor at the next appointment.

Discovery of regular consumption

Consult a doctor quickly for evaluation. Perform a blood pressure check and look for edema. A fetal ultrasound may be necessary if exposure was prolonged. Reinforced pregnancy monitoring will be implemented.

Breastfeeding period

Passage into breast milk

Glycyrrhizin passes into milk and can affect the infant by causing sleep disturbances, irritability, and minor electrolyte imbalances.

Breastfeeding recommendations

Avoid completely during the first 3 months. Very occasional consumption after 3 months (maximum 1 stick per month) remains possible. Monitor the baby's reactions. Stop immediately if symptoms appear.

Practical prevention tips

Reading labels

Check for the presence of licorice in confectionery and candies, compound herbal teas, food supplements, phytotherapeutic medicines, and unmarked "natural" products.

Medical communication

Inform all healthcare professionals: gynecologist-obstetrician, general practitioner, pharmacist, and midwife.

Myth: "natural = safe"

Danger of natural products

Contrary to popular belief, "natural" does not mean "harmless". Many plants have significant toxicity, particularly during pregnancy.

Precautionary principle

In the absence of complete safety data, the golden rule remains the systematic avoidance of non-essential substances during pregnancy.

Summary of contraindications

Pregnancy constitutes an absolute prohibition in all trimesters. Breastfeeding requires recommended avoidance, especially during the first 3 months. The desire for pregnancy implies preventive cessation from the conception project. Obstetric history requires increased vigilance.

Conclusion

Licorice root is formally not recommended for pregnant women due to documented risks for the mother and child. Safe natural alternatives can manage pregnancy ailments without compromising fetal health.

Consult our guide to the general benefits of licorice to understand why this beneficial plant becomes problematic during pregnancy, and discover other precautions for use.