Licorice Root Tea: How to Brew It and Use It Safely
By Tha Alkaline Hour | Published: 2026-11-03
Category: Guias Práticos
Learn how to brew loose licorice root tea with the right water temperature, steeping time, and portion control, plus key safety limits and who should avoid it.
Quick answer
Steep 1 to 2 grams of loose licorice root in 8 ounces of water just off the boil for 5 to 10 minutes, then strain. Keep daily intake modest and avoid drinking it regularly if you have high blood pressure, heart or kidney issues, or take diuretics.
Why licorice root needs a shorter steep than you might expect
Licorice root is dense and woody, so it releases its sweet compounds slowly. A short steep gives a mild, pleasant cup; over-steeping pulls out a strong, almost syrupy flavor that many people find cloying. Start with 5 minutes and taste before adding more time.
Because the root is hard, cutting it into smaller pieces or lightly crushing it before steeping increases surface area and shortens the wait. Whole pieces can be steeped a second time, but the second cup will be weaker and less sweet.
The safety line: how much is too much
Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that can raise blood pressure and lower potassium when consumed in large amounts over time. Occasional cups are generally fine for healthy adults, but daily long-term use is where problems tend to appear. The exact threshold varies by person, so treat 1 to 2 grams per cup and no more than 1 to 2 cups a day as a conservative starting point, and stop if you notice swelling, headache, or unusual fatigue.
This is not medical advice. If you take blood pressure medication, diuretics, or digoxin, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to a healthcare provider before drinking licorice root tea.
Who should skip licorice root tea entirely
People with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, or low potassium should avoid licorice root tea. It is also not suitable for children or for anyone who has had an adverse reaction to licorice in the past. If you are unsure, err on the side of caution and choose a different herbal tea.
How to brew loose licorice root tea step by step
- Measure 1 to 2 grams of loose licorice root: Use a small kitchen scale for accuracy. If you don't have one, 1 level teaspoon of finely cut root is a reasonable approximation, but weight is more reliable because piece size varies. A common mistake is eyeballing a heaping spoonful, which can double the dose. Weigh the first few batches to calibrate your eye.
- Heat 8 ounces of water to just off the boil: Bring water to a boil, then let it sit for 30 seconds before pouring. Water at a rolling boil can make the tea bitter and is harder on delicate cups. Checkpoint: if you see large bubbles breaking the surface vigorously, wait a moment before pouring.
- Steep for 5 to 10 minutes: Start with 5 minutes, taste, and add time in 1-minute increments. Cover the cup while steeping to keep the water hot and trap volatile aromatics. Over-steeping past 10 minutes is the most common reason licorice tea tastes syrupy. Set a timer.
- Strain and drink: Pour through a fine-mesh strainer to catch small root fragments. Drink warm. If you want a second cup from the same root, steep it for 10 to 15 minutes, but expect a milder flavor. Do not leave the root sitting in the cup; it will continue to extract and become stronger as it cools.
- Limit yourself to 1 to 2 cups per day: Keep track of how many cups you drink and how often. If you drink licorice root tea daily for more than a week or two, take a break and monitor how you feel. Checkpoint: stop and consult a healthcare provider if you notice swelling, headache, or unusual tiredness.
Product facts
- Licorice Root: Licorice Root is available in 1 oz, 2 oz, and 4 oz sizes. A 1 oz bag gives you roughly 14 to 28 cups at 1 to 2 grams per cup, so you can try it without committing to a large amount.
Licorice Root
