Reaction to licorice root - how long do side effects last?
I was prescribed DGL Licorice for adrenal fatigue by a practitioner recently and went to my health food store, which did not stock it. Was advised to purchase licorice root "as it's the same thing".
Purchased and took it and long story short, have had horrendous side effects for the last 2 days since taking it. Horrible 'stabbing' joint and muscle pains, agitation and nervousness, and indigestion/abdominal pain. Not sleeping or eating since I took it due to the pain.
It turns out licorice root is not the same thing at all as DGL licorice. (I wish I had done my homework!) and can have serious side effects even at low doses.
Before I took it, I did search online for a dosage but couldn't find one except various online pages said follow the dosage on the package. I took half of the dosage (3g) which was 1.5g which I'm now realizing is a lot.
I was wondering if there might be anyone on this board who has been through something similar with adverse reactions to herbs or this herb in particular. Or anyone who knows a lot about herbs who can give me their opinion.
I am freaking out a bit, wondering how long this will last for and if I've done myself any damage. That might sound silly but the pain is awful and I had no idea that this herb can have serious side effects.
I found this online:
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"Although the most dangerous effects mostly happen with high doses of licorice or glycyrrhizin, smaller amounts of licorice may cause side effects. Some people have muscle pain or numbness in the arms and legs. To be safe, ask your health care provider to monitor your use of licorice."
Source: Licorice | University of Maryland Medical Center
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Apparently licorice root causes high blood pressure too. I am going for a quick check up with my doctor this afternoon. I asked him over the phone how long side effects last and he said he has no experience with herbal supplements and can't say.
Thanks so much for any input anyone on here can give. I'm feeling a bit desperate :-(
Oh and if anyone has any suggestions for overcoming adrenal fatigue in ways that aren't as irritating as using strong herbs that would be appreciated.