Can licorice be consumed during breastfeeding?

In general, licorice can be consumed during lactation, but intake should be controlled and its use is recommended only after consulting a healthcare professional. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Licorice is a commonly used traditional Chinese herb with a sweet taste and neutral nature. It functions to tonify the spleen and replenish qi, clear heat and detoxify, and relieve phlegm and cough. It is often used to treat symptoms such as spleen and stomach deficiency, fatigue, excessive phlegm, and coughing. Licorice is not considered a toxic substance, and breastfeeding women may consume it in moderation without typically causing adverse effects. However, it should be used under the guidance of a qualified physician to avoid excessive intake, which could lead to unnecessary harm.

Long-term use of licorice should be avoided to prevent potential drug dependence. During licorice consumption, concurrent use with herbs such as seaweed (Hai Zao), Euphorbia pekinensis (Jing Da Ji), Euphorbia kansui (Gan Sui), and Daphne genkwa (Yuan Hua) should be avoided to prevent adverse interactions.

Women who are breastfeeding should maintain a healthy diet, avoiding fried, pickled, or smoked foods such as fried chicken, salted fish, and barbecued items. Instead, they are encouraged to consume fresh vegetables and fruits—such as spinach, carrots, and apples—to ensure balanced nutrition in breast milk and meet the infant's growth requirements.