MODERATE — Monitor Closely
🟡 CAUTION — Licorice root causes pseudoaldosteronism (sodium retention, potassium wasting, blood pressure elevation) that directly opposes Clonidine. Avoid licorice root if taking antihypertensive medications, or use DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) which lacks this effect.
Evidence level: STRONG
Licorice root elevates blood pressure by causing pseudoaldosteronism — sodium retention and potassium wasting via mineralocorticoid receptor activation. Clonidine works centrally in the brain by stimulating alpha-2 receptors to reduce sympathetic nervous system output. These two mechanisms operate through entirely different pathways, so Clonidine cannot block licorice's peripheral blood pressure effects.
Glycyrrhizin in licorice root inhibits 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, causing cortisol to activate mineralocorticoid receptors (pseudoaldosteronism). This causes sodium retention, potassium wasting, and blood pressure elevation — directly opposing the antihypertensive action of Clonidine.
Do not use licorice root with Clonidine. Clonidine is sometimes used for ADHD or opioid withdrawal in addition to hypertension, and sudden blood pressure spikes from licorice are dangerous regardless of why you take Clonidine. Never abruptly stop Clonidine (rebound hypertension risk), and adding licorice on top of Clonidine makes blood pressure even more unpredictable. DGL licorice is the safe option.
Be consistent with how you take Clonidine relative to meals — take it with food or without food consistently each day. Licorice Root — sudden large changes in diet composition can affect how your body processes many medications. Grapefruit, leafy greens, and high-fiber foods are the most common food-drug interaction culprits.
Higher risk for: elderly, those with liver or kidney impairment, polypharmacy (5+ medications), recent medication changes, or those with multiple chronic conditions. Consult your pharmacist for specific risk factors.
Rising blood pressure despite medication, headache, swelling in legs/ankles, muscle weakness or cramps, irregular heartbeat (from low potassium).
No urgent need to discuss, but always keep your doctor informed of your full supplement and medication list. An up-to-date list helps them make the best treatment decisions.
Adjust the timing or quantity of Licorice Root relative to your medication. Maintain consistent daily intake rather than large sporadic amounts. Your pharmacist can advise on specific timing windows.
Licorice root elevates blood pressure by causing pseudoaldosteronism — sodium retention and potassium wasting via mineralocorticoid receptor activation. Clonidine works centrally in the brain by stimulating alpha-2 receptors to reduce sympathetic nervous system output. These two mechanisms operate through entirely different pathways, so Clonidine cannot block licorice's peripheral blood pressure effects.
Be consistent with how you take Clonidine relative to meals — take it with food or without food consistently each day. Licorice Root — sudden large changes in diet composition can affect how your body processes many medications. Grapefruit, leafy greens, and high-fiber foods are the most common food-drug interaction culprits.
Rising blood pressure despite medication, headache, swelling in legs/ankles, muscle weakness or cramps, irregular heartbeat (from low potassium).
Adjust the timing or quantity of Licorice Root relative to your medication. Maintain consistent daily intake rather than large sporadic amounts. Your pharmacist can advise on specific timing windows.
No urgent need to discuss, but always keep your doctor informed of your full supplement and medication list. An up-to-date list helps them make the best treatment decisions.
Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).