Is Licorice Good for Breastfeeding? What You Need to Know

Q: What is DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice)?

In lactation supplements for digestive issues, you may see DGL. This stands for deglycyrrhizinated licorice.

Posted on May 27, 2026

Is Licorice Good for Breastfeeding? What You Need to Know

Introduction
What Exactly Is Licorice Root?
Does Licorice Increase Milk Supply?
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Postpartum Recovery
Potential Benefits for Breastfeeding Mothers
Understanding the Risks and Side Effects
The Difference Between Black and Red Licorice
What is DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice)?
Action Steps for Safe Consumption
Better Alternatives for Milk Supply
When to See a Lactation Consultant
Conclusion
FAQ

Introduction

If you have found yourself wondering if licorice is safe while nursing, you are not alone. Whether you're craving a sweet treat or searching for ways to support your milk supply, understanding what you consume is vital for your peace of mind.

While licorice has a long history in herbal medicine, its impact on breastfeeding is complex and depends heavily on how much you consume. This article will help you decide if this herb has a place in your breastfeeding routine or if you should reach for a different snack instead.

Quick Answer: Licorice root is not a reliable way to boost milk supply and may actually lower the hormones needed for production. While small amounts in food or candy are generally safe, concentrated teas and supplements can negatively affect prolactin levels, blood pressure, and potassium.

What Exactly Is Licorice Root?

Licorice comes from the root of a plant known scientifically as Glycyrrhiza glabra. This perennial herb, native to Europe and Asia, contains a compound called glycyrrhizin—a natural substance roughly 50 times sweeter than table sugar.

Historically, licorice was used to soothe respiratory issues and digestive discomfort. In many cultures, it is also considered a galactagogue (a substance that may help increase milk supply). However, scientific evidence suggests the relationship between licorice and lactation is more complicated than tradition implies.

Does Licorice Increase Milk Supply?

While some traditional herbal blends include licorice root, the evidence for its effectiveness is mixed. For a substance to be a true galactagogue, it typically needs to support oxytocin (for let-down) and prolactin (for milk production).

The Prolactin Connection

Some studies suggest that licorice might actually lower the levels of prolactin in your blood. Since prolactin is the essential "milk-making" hormone, a drop in these levels could potentially lead to a decrease in milk production, especially in the early weeks when your supply is still being established.

Because of this, many certified lactation consultants recommend caution. If you are struggling with a low milk supply, adding large amounts of licorice to your diet might not be the best strategy.

Why It Appears in Lactation Teas

You might wonder why licorice is included in some lactation drink mixes if it can lower prolactin. In many traditional formulas, it is used as a "harmonizer"—added in small amounts to balance the flavor of bitter herbs or soothe the digestive system.

In these tiny, blended amounts, it likely doesn't drop prolactin significantly. However, it is always a good idea to monitor your total herbal intake.

Key Takeaway: While licorice is often found in traditional milk-boosting blends, clinical evidence suggests it may actually lower prolactin levels, which could potentially decrease milk supply if taken in large amounts.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Postpartum Recovery

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), licorice root is known as "Gan Cao." It is one of the most frequently used herbs, often serving as a "neutral" herb to help the body absorb nutrients and harmonize other ingredients.

Harmonizing the Body

Postpartum practitioners may use licorice to help replenish "Qi" (energy) and support the digestive system after childbirth.

Clearing "Toxic Heat"

TCM also uses licorice to clear "toxic heat," which relates to inflammation or infection. Some believe this can help with clogged milk ducts or mastitis. By reducing inflammation, licorice is thought to indirectly help milk flow, focusing on the overall balance of the mother's body rather than just increasing volume.

Quick Summary:

Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a potent compound used for both flavor and medicine.

In TCM, it is a "harmonizer" used to balance energy and reduce inflammation.

Evidence is mixed; concentrated amounts may lower prolactin, potentially reducing milk supply.

Key safety risks include high blood pressure and low potassium.

The safest approach is sticking to small culinary amounts rather than medicinal supplements.

Potential Benefits for Breastfeeding Mothers

Licorice may offer other benefits that can make the breastfeeding journey easier:

Digestive Support: Licorice can soothe the stomach lining, helping nursing moms who experience heartburn or indigestion.
Immune Support: Research suggests compounds in licorice have antiviral and antimicrobial properties.
Oral Health: Chewing on the root is a traditional way to keep teeth and gums clean, which can be helpful as mineral shifts during pregnancy sometimes affect dental health.

Understanding the Risks and Side Effects

Even as a natural plant, licorice is potent. For breastfeeding parents, there are several safety concerns.

High Blood Pressure and Fluid Retention

The glycyrrhizin in licorice affects how kidneys handle sodium and potassium. For some, too much licorice can lead to high blood pressure (hypertension) and significant water retention (edema). If you had gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, you should be especially careful.

Low Potassium Levels

Excessive intake can cause your body to lose too much potassium (hypokalemia). Symptoms include muscle weakness, fatigue, and heart rhythm issues. Keeping your electrolytes in balance is crucial for the high nutritional demands of breastfeeding.

Effects on the Baby

Components of licorice can pass into breast milk. In cases where mothers consumed very large amounts of concentrated licorice tea (over two liters daily), infants showed signs of lethargy and a weak suck. These symptoms typically clear up once the mother stops intake.

Key Takeaway: The biggest concerns involve medicinal amounts rather than occasional candy. Excessive intake can cause blood pressure spikes and potassium loss in the mother, or infant sleepiness and weak feeding.

The Difference Between Black and Red Licorice

Not all "licorice" products are created equal. It is important to distinguish between herbal roots and candy.

Red Licorice

Most red candy contains no actual licorice root. It is typically a sugary, fruit-flavored snack. While it won't hurt your milk supply, the high sugar content isn't ideal for a postpartum diet.

Black Licorice

Traditional black licorice often contains real licorice extract. While a few pieces are usually fine, the FDA amount warning states that eating two ounces of black licorice daily for two weeks can cause heart rhythm problems in some people.

Anise and Fennel

Many treats that taste like licorice—such as pizzelle cookies—are actually flavored with anise or fennel. These contain anethole, which provides a similar flavor. These are different plants with their own safety profiles and are also traditional galactagogues.

Type	Description	Real Licorice?	Safety & Relevance
Red Licorice	Fruit-flavored candy	No	High sugar; no effect on milk supply.
Black Licorice	Candy with herbal extract	Yes	Limit intake; FDA warning against 2oz/day for 2 weeks.
Anise & Fennel	Flavoring herbs (anethole)	No	Traditional galactagogues; different plants than licorice.

What is DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice)?

In lactation supplements for digestive issues, you may see DGL. This stands for deglycyrrhizinated licorice.

In DGL products, the glycyrrhizin has been removed, eliminating the component responsible for blood pressure and potassium issues. While DGL is considered safer for digestion, there is still limited research on its specific effects on breastfeeding.

Action Steps for Safe Consumption

If you enjoy licorice, follow these steps to stay safe:

Stick to Food Amounts: Using licorice as a minor recipe ingredient or enjoying occasional candy is generally safe.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure: If you drink licorice tea, watch for any increases in blood pressure and stop use if it rises.
Watch Your Baby: Observe for unusual sleepiness, difficulty waking for feeds, or a weak suck.
Consult a Professional: Talk to an IBCLC before starting herbal supplements to get guidance tailored to your health history.

Better Alternatives for Milk Supply

If your goal is to support milk supply, other options have more consistent track records for safety and effectiveness.

Focus on Nutrition and Hydration

Your body needs calories and water to produce milk. Making sure you eat enough protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates is the foundation of a good supply. Rolled oats for breastfeeding are a safe, iron-rich option that many moms find helpful.

Supportive Lactation Products

At Milky Mama, we use ingredients generally recognized as safe for nursing. Our lactation snacks collection includes Emergency Brownies made with oats, brewer's yeast, and flaxseed. For hydration, our Pumpin Punch™ and Milky Melon™ drinks provide essential fluids and nutrients.

Hand Expression and Power Pumping

Increasing milk removal is often more effective than herbs. Adding a power pumping routine—pumping for 20 minutes, resting for 10, then alternating 10-minute bursts—can signal your body to increase production.

When to See a Lactation Consultant

If you are worried about milk supply or baby’s weight gain, don't struggle alone. A lactation consultant can check your baby's latch and create a plan for your unique situation. Herbs like licorice are not a substitute for addressing the root causes of breastfeeding challenges.

Key Takeaway: Prioritize evidence-based methods like frequent milk removal and balanced nutrition before turning to potent medicinal herbs like licorice root.

Conclusion

Is licorice good for breastfeeding? While it offers digestive comfort and a unique flavor, the risk of it lowering prolactin or affecting blood pressure means it should be used with caution.

If you love the flavor, an occasional treat is likely fine. But for a reliable supply boost, there are safer paths:

Limit intake to small food amounts.
Avoid concentrated supplements unless directed by a professional.
Focus on hydration and proven foods like oats.

Your well-being and your baby's health are the priority. We are here to support you with products, online breastfeeding classes, and education you can trust.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice.

FAQ

Can I drink licorice tea every day while breastfeeding?

It is best to limit licorice tea to no more than one cup per day, and even then, you should not drink it every day for long periods. Because licorice can affect your blood pressure and potassium levels, consistent daily use can lead to health issues for you or lethargy in your baby. Always monitor your body's response and talk to your doctor if you have a history of heart or kidney issues.

Does licorice root pass into breast milk?

Yes, certain compounds found in licorice root, including glycyrrhizin, can pass through your breast milk to your baby. While small amounts are generally considered safe, excessive intake by the mother has been linked to infant lethargy and poor feeding. If you notice your baby is unusually sleepy or not sucking well, you should reduce your intake and consult a healthcare provider.

Is DGL safer than regular licorice for nursing moms?

DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is often considered safer regarding blood pressure and potassium levels because the most potent compound has been removed. It is frequently used for heartburn and indigestion, which are common postpartum complaints. However, there is still very little clinical research on DGL's effect on lactation, so it is best used under the guidance of a professional.

Can licorice really decrease my milk supply?

Subscribe & Save: 10% off

SHOP NOW

About Milky Mama

Support

Stay Connected