Studies have shown a component of licorice to be effective in treating viral
hepatitis, particularly chronic active hepatitis. This is probably due
to its well documented antiviral activity.
A glycyrrhizin-containing product is widely used intravenously in Japan for the
treatment of hepatitis.
If licorice is used over a long time it is necessary to increase the intake of
potassium rich foods.
Caution should be exercised by anyone with high blood pressure or cirrhosis. (“Complementary and alternative medicine in chronic liver disease,” Hepatology September 2001 Volume 34 Number 3)
