MODERATE — Monitor Closely
🟡 CAUTION — Licorice root causes pseudoaldosteronism (sodium retention, potassium wasting, blood pressure elevation) that directly opposes Olmesartan. Avoid licorice root if taking antihypertensive medications, or use DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) which lacks this effect.
Evidence level: STRONG
Licorice root creates a state of pseudoaldosteronism in your body — your kidneys retain sodium and excrete potassium as if aldosterone levels were elevated. Olmesartan blocks angiotensin II receptors to reduce blood pressure, but the mineralocorticoid pathway that licorice activates bypasses this mechanism entirely.
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 Olmesartan.
Stop taking licorice root if you are prescribed Olmesartan. Olmesartan is one of the more potent ARBs, often used when other blood pressure medications have been insufficient. Adding licorice negates the extra potency you need. Olmesartan has also been linked to a rare sprue-like enteropathy with chronic diarrhea — if you are taking licorice for GI symptoms alongside Olmesartan, discuss both with your doctor. DGL licorice is the safe substitute.
Be consistent with how you take Olmesartan 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 creates a state of pseudoaldosteronism in your body — your kidneys retain sodium and excrete potassium as if aldosterone levels were elevated. Olmesartan blocks angiotensin II receptors to reduce blood pressure, but the mineralocorticoid pathway that licorice activates bypasses this mechanism entirely.
Be consistent with how you take Olmesartan 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).