MODERATE — Monitor Closely
🟡 CAUTION — Licorice root causes pseudoaldosteronism (sodium retention, potassium wasting, blood pressure elevation) that directly opposes Enalapril. Avoid licorice root if taking antihypertensive medications, or use DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) which lacks this effect.
Evidence level: STRONG
Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which forces your kidneys to hold onto sodium and flush out potassium — raising blood pressure. Enalapril, your ACE inhibitor, tries to do the opposite. Taking both means your medication is fighting an uphill battle it may not win.
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 Enalapril.
Avoid all licorice-containing supplements and candies while taking Enalapril. Enalapril is often prescribed for heart failure as well as hypertension, making uncontrolled blood pressure spikes especially dangerous. If you have been using licorice, tell your doctor — they may need to recheck your potassium levels and adjust your Enalapril dose. DGL licorice is an acceptable substitute.
Take Enalapril at a consistent time daily. Licorice Root — be mindful of potassium-rich foods (bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, avocados). ACE inhibitors raise potassium levels, and excessive dietary potassium on top of this can cause dangerous hyperkalemia. Moderate intake is fine.
Higher risk for: those with renal impairment, hyperkalemia risk, concurrent potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements, elderly, dehydrated patients, or those with bilateral renal artery stenosis.
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.
ACE inhibitor interactions often involve potassium levels or blood pressure effects. Ask your doctor about ARBs as alternatives, or adjust the timing of the interacting substance. Monitor potassium levels and blood pressure regularly.
Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which forces your kidneys to hold onto sodium and flush out potassium — raising blood pressure. Enalapril, your ACE inhibitor, tries to do the opposite. Taking both means your medication is fighting an uphill battle it may not win.
Take Enalapril at a consistent time daily. Licorice Root — be mindful of potassium-rich foods (bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, avocados). ACE inhibitors raise potassium levels, and excessive dietary potassium on top of this can cause dangerous hyperkalemia. Moderate intake is fine.
Rising blood pressure despite medication, headache, swelling in legs/ankles, muscle weakness or cramps, irregular heartbeat (from low potassium).
ACE inhibitor interactions often involve potassium levels or blood pressure effects. Ask your doctor about ARBs as alternatives, or adjust the timing of the interacting substance. Monitor potassium levels and blood pressure regularly.
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).