Another key factor to consider is the dosage. While licorice root is generally considered safe, taking too much can lead to side effects like high blood pressure and low potassium levels.
This particular type of licorice root undergoes a process to eliminate the glycyrrhizin component, which can cause unwanted side effects like hypertension and decreased potassium levels.
However, the FDA warned that black licorice could become toxic when eaten in excess. Here's why: The main component in black licorice is glycyrrhizin, a sweet compound in licorice root.