Have you ever heard a conversation at the door of a pharmacy that says, 'I want to buy some licorice tablets?' 'I'm sorry, but it's not easy to buy right now. Compound licorice tablets have long been a frequent fixture on the daily medication lists of many middle-aged and elderly people. But lately, it seems to be becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. What is the reason behind this, and more importantly, what are the possible health effects of long-term use of licorice tablets?
Demystifying Compound Licorice Tablets: More Than Just a Sweetener!
Compound licorice tablets are often considered to be a simple Chinese medicine sweetener, but its ingredients and effects are far beyond the imagination of ordinary people. The main ingredient in this tablet is licorice extract, which contains compounds such as glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhizin, which are used in traditional Chinese medicine to reconcile other medicines, relieve pain, and be anti-inflammatory.
The pharmacological effects of licorice are mainly reflected in its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory abilities. Glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhizin have significant anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities and can be used to treat various inflammatory diseases, such as respiratory tract infections and digestive disorders. In addition, these ingredients also have the effect of protecting the liver and boosting the function of the immune system, helping to boost the body's overall resistance.
However, compound licorice tablets are not a panacea. While its ingredients have a variety of health-promoting properties, overdose or long-term use may cause some side effects, such as fluid retention and increased blood pressure. This is mainly because the glycyrrhizic acid in licorice has an effect similar to that of human adrenal corticosteroids, and long-term high intake may interfere with normal hormone balance.
In traditional Chinese medicine, compound licorice tablets are regarded as an important part of harmonizing various pharmaceutical ingredients and improving the therapeutic effect. But that doesn't mean it's free to use. Understanding its composition and role is the first step to taking responsibility for your own health. Remember, any medication should be used rationally under the guidance of a doctor.
The hidden dangers of long-term use of compound licorice tablets: not only "medicine", but also "poison"
Compound licorice tablets are often used to relieve throat discomfort and stomach pain, but their long-term use hides risks that cannot be ignored. This section aims to shed light on the potential harms of long-term use of licorice tablets and provide scientific evidence and practical advice to help readers make more informed health choices.
Risk of electrolyte imbalance
Long-term use of licorice tablets may lead to a loss of potassium ions in the body, which can lead to electrolyte imbalances. This imbalance can cause irregular heartbeats, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, cardiac arrest.
Blood pressure problems
Taking licorice tablets may cause an increase in blood pressure, especially in people with a history of high blood pressure. This is due to the fact that the components in licorice can increase sodium retention in the body, leading to water buildup and increased blood pressure.
Burden on the kidneys
Long-term use may increase the burden on the kidneys, leading to kidney damage. Some of the ingredients in licorice can put extra strain on the kidneys, especially when used for long periods of time or in large doses.
Effect of hormone levels
Some compounds in licorice may mimic the action of human hormones and interfere with hormone balance. Especially for people with hormone-related conditions, this can lead to worsening of the condition.
While licorice tablets are effective in relieving certain symptoms, long-term use can pose serious health risks. Therefore, it is everyone's responsibility to pay attention to the rational use of such drugs and the monitoring of their own health. It is important to note that a medical professional should be consulted when using any medication, and regular physical examinations should be carried out.