MODERATE — Monitor Closely
🟡 CAUTION — Licorice root causes pseudoaldosteronism (sodium retention, potassium wasting, blood pressure elevation) that directly opposes Valsartan. Avoid licorice root if taking antihypertensive medications, or use DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) which lacks this effect.
Evidence level: STRONG
Licorice root's active compound glycyrrhizin causes your body to act as if it has too much aldosterone — retaining sodium, losing potassium, and raising blood pressure. Valsartan blocks angiotensin receptors to relax blood vessels, but cannot overcome the volume overload that licorice creates through a completely different hormonal mechanism.
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 Valsartan.
Do not use licorice root supplements with Valsartan. Valsartan is commonly prescribed in fixed-dose combinations (like Valsartan/HCTZ), and if you are on a combo that includes a diuretic, the potassium loss from licorice becomes even more dangerous. Have your electrolytes checked if you have been combining these. Switch to DGL licorice for digestive benefits without the blood pressure risk.
Be consistent with how you take Valsartan 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's active compound glycyrrhizin causes your body to act as if it has too much aldosterone — retaining sodium, losing potassium, and raising blood pressure. Valsartan blocks angiotensin receptors to relax blood vessels, but cannot overcome the volume overload that licorice creates through a completely different hormonal mechanism.
Be consistent with how you take Valsartan 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).