⚠️CautionCurated
Licorice Root Tea
Licorice root has a long history in traditional medicine, but the active compound glycyrrhizin can affect hormone levels, blood pressure, and potassium. While a cup of licorice root tea occasionally is unlikely to cause harm, regular use is not recommended during breastfeeding.
Occasional use likely fine; avoid regular daily intake
Glycyrrhizin, the main active compound in true licorice root, can inhibit cortisol metabolism and affect aldosterone, leading to fluid retention, elevated blood pressure, and low potassium with excessive or prolonged intake. Small amounts in tea are far below doses that cause these effects in adults. However, because it has estrogenic properties and no well-controlled studies in breastfeeding, regular daily use is cautioned against. Note that 'licorice-flavored' products (like most licorice candy) use anise oil and contain no actual glycyrrhizin.
Always confirm with your doctor or lactation consultant before making dietary changes while breastfeeding.
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