“Under normal circumstances, the production of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) fluctuate in a predictable circadian cycle under the influence of melatonin and are inhibited by high levels of serum cortisol via a negative feedback loop, causing the return to homeostasis,” explains Lise Alschuler, ND, FABNO. “Frequent or ongoing stress can disrupt this normal stress response.” This can lead to dysregulation, which can be problematic for many patients.
Adaptogenic herbs have been shown to help support HPA axis balance. has a wide spectrum of applications, and is often used to support HPA axis balance by supporting normal morning cortisol levels. This is important because normal morning cortisol levels should be relatively high, associated with morning waking, alertness, and feeling energetic. Low morning cortisol levels can be associated with difficulty waking and daytime fatigue. People may try to address this problem with caffeine, which only puts more stress on the HPA-axis.
Licorice gets to the root of the fatigue problem, and supports normal cortisol by helping inhibit the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which catalyzes conversion of into cortisone. This supports the production and circulation of cortisol, and helps ensure cortisol levels stay in a balanced normal range. This also supports optimal immunity and healthy inflammation balance, in addition to daytime energy levels.
In a small 2011 study featured in Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, licorice extract supplementation for one week increased DHEA in all 20 participants and in some cases, salivary cortisol levels also increased.
In addition to influencing cortisol levels, licorice supports healthy immunity and inflammation balance. An interesting new 2018 paper published in Pharmacognosy Review found that licorice may also help support .
Regarding safety, it is well known that the overuse of licorice extract can cause some issues with blood pressure, potassium, and the hormone aldosterone. Chronic use of licorice can lead to hypokalemia and hypertension, especially at high doses. But at recommended doses under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional, however, licorice is considered safe for most patients for limited time periods.
Most healthcare professionals agree that licorice and other nutrients used to balance HPA axis function must be combined with “healthy lifestyle changes that include diet, exercise, and relaxation.”