MODERATE — Monitor Closely
🟡 CAUTION — Licorice root causes pseudoaldosteronism (sodium retention, potassium wasting, blood pressure elevation) that directly opposes Lisinopril. Avoid licorice root if taking antihypertensive medications, or use DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) which lacks this effect.
Evidence level: STRONG
Licorice root triggers a hormonal cascade that mimics aldosterone excess, driving up blood pressure through sodium retention and potassium loss. Since Lisinopril works by blocking the ACE enzyme to lower blood pressure, licorice essentially creates a competing hypertensive force that your ACE inhibitor cannot fully overcome.
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 Lisinopril.
Stop licorice root supplements while on Lisinopril. Because ACE inhibitors like Lisinopril already affect potassium balance (they tend to raise potassium), the potassium-depleting effect of licorice can create unpredictable electrolyte swings. Monitor your blood pressure at home for 2 weeks after stopping licorice. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) supplements are safe since glycyrrhizin has been removed.
Take Lisinopril 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 triggers a hormonal cascade that mimics aldosterone excess, driving up blood pressure through sodium retention and potassium loss. Since Lisinopril works by blocking the ACE enzyme to lower blood pressure, licorice essentially creates a competing hypertensive force that your ACE inhibitor cannot fully overcome.
Take Lisinopril 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).