Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Glycyrrhizin, a major bioactive compound derived from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), has a history of use in traditional medicine for various ailments, including support of the adrenal cortex and stress response. Scientifically, glycyrrhizin has been shown to inhibit the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), which leads to increased levels of cortisol by preventing its conversion to inactive cortisone. This mechanism may theoretically support adrenal cortical function or compensate for adrenal insufficiency by potentiating endogenous cortisol effects. Some small studies and case reports have noted glycyrrhizin’s ability to prolong cortisol activity and have suggested benefit in conditions such as Addison’s disease or chronic fatigue states.

However, there are no large-scale, high-quality clinical trials specifically demonstrating glycyrrhizin’s efficacy in supporting adrenal cortex function in humans. Most evidence comes from biochemical studies, animal models, or indirect clinical observations. Furthermore, chronic glycyrrhizin consumption can result in pseudoaldosteronism—characterized by sodium retention, potassium loss, and hypertension—due to its mineralocorticoid-like effects. Thus, while there is some scientific rationale for glycyrrhizin’s effect on adrenal steroid metabolism, its use for adrenal support should be approached with caution and is not broadly endorsed by clinical guidelines.

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