Licorice is a divisive candy — people either ... Glycyrrhizin blocks an important enzyme in the kidneys — called HSD-11β — which normally prevents the stress hormone cortisol from ...

Candies flavored with real licorice contain a compound called glycyrrhizin. This compound blocks an enzyme in the kidneys, causing them to retain too much water and sodium and to expel too much ...

Blood cortisol levels can be maintained higher because licorice root can block the enzyme that inactivates cortisol. Licorice root has many useful properties that make it appear as the “magic plant” ...