Licorice root, derived from the plant Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been traditionally used to support digestive wellness and is noted for its mild laxative properties. Whether licorice can induce a bowel movement depends heavily on what is consumed and in what quantity. The effects are often not as direct or immediate as a dedicated over-the-counter laxative. The potential for licorice to cause a bowel movement is influenced by both the natural compounds in the root and the common additives in commercial confectionery.
True Licorice Root vs. Confectionery
True licorice comes from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant and contains glycyrrhizin, the compound responsible for its distinct sweet flavor and active properties. This root has been used in traditional medicine systems for thousands of years, including for digestive complaints. The digestive influence of the pure root is often mild, offering gentle support for occasional irregularity.
Black licorice candy is a different product entirely, and its laxative effects often stem from added ingredients rather than the licorice extract itself. Many licorice candies contain a very small percentage of actual licorice extract, sometimes as low as three percent. The bulk of the ingredients include sugars, molasses, or, in sugar-free varieties, sugar alcohols like maltitol or sorbitol.
These added components, especially sugar alcohols, are frequently the primary cause of a noticeable laxative effect in confectionery. They are not fully absorbed in the small intestine and instead travel to the colon, where they exert a strong influence on bowel function. This means that the laxative effect of a licorice treat is often due to the candy-making process rather than the herb.
Physiological Mechanisms of Action
The laxative effect felt after consuming licorice or licorice-flavored products can be traced to two distinct mechanisms: osmotic effects and subtle changes in intestinal balance. The most powerful and immediate effect is often osmotic, caused by unabsorbed sugar alcohols found in many candies. These compounds draw water into the colon, which softens the stool and increases its volume, making it easier to pass. This influx of water can lead to a rapid bowel movement, characteristic of osmotic diarrhea.
The active compound in the real licorice root, glycyrrhizin, may contribute to a mild laxative effect through a different, indirect mechanism. Glycyrrhizin can affect the body’s water and electrolyte regulation by influencing a kidney enzyme. This disruption can indirectly lead to increased water secretion into the intestines, which results in looser stools.
Licorice compounds are traditionally noted for their mild laxative properties, though the exact mechanism is not fully understood. Some research suggests that licorice may slightly increase intestinal motility, the speed at which food moves through the digestive tract. However, other studies indicate that certain licorice compounds may have an antispasmodic effect, relaxing the intestinal smooth muscles. The overall effect on the gut is complex, with its mild laxative reputation stemming from a combination of these subtle actions.
Dosage, Safety, and Warning Signs
Using licorice for its digestive effects requires careful attention to the amount and type consumed, as the line between a mild effect and adverse side effects is narrow. The traditional use of licorice root for occasional constipation points to its mild action, but consistent, long-term use is not recommended. For most healthy adults, adverse effects from the active compounds are unlikely with occasional, moderate consumption.
Consuming large amounts of real licorice, or licorice products containing glycyrrhizin, can lead to serious health issues beyond simple laxation. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that consuming more than two ounces of black licorice daily for at least two weeks, especially for those over 40, can cause issues like irregular heart rhythm. This is due to the glycyrrhizin, which can cause potassium depletion (hypokalemia) and fluid retention, leading to high blood pressure.
General safety guidelines suggest that the intake of glycyrrhizin should be kept below 100 milligrams daily to avoid these serious side effects. For those with pre-existing conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, or high blood pressure, even smaller amounts can cause problems. Licorice should not be used as a primary treatment for chronic constipation, and a healthcare provider should be consulted before using it for any digestive complaint.