Licorice Toxic?
No published animal poisoning cases associated with Glycyrrhiza glabra L. have been recorded to date.
Licorice is not suitable for use as feed for any animal species, including pets and livestock.
The plant may be confused with other potentially toxic members of the Fabaceae family.
FAQ
Is Licorice toxic to Humans?
No acute poisoning symptoms confirmed at typical consumption levels; high chronic intake may cause electrolyte imbalance, hypertension, or edema. (Low)
Is Licorice toxic to Cats?
No confirmed poisoning symptoms documented; monitor for gastrointestinal distress if large quantities are ingested. (Non-toxic)
Is Licorice toxic to Dogs?
No confirmed poisoning symptoms documented; monitor for gastrointestinal distress if large quantities are ingested. (Non-toxic)
Is Licorice toxic to Horses?
No confirmed poisoning symptoms documented; monitor for gastrointestinal distress if large quantities are ingested. (Non-toxic)
Toxicity Details
No acute poisoning symptoms confirmed at typical consumption levels; high chronic intake may cause electrolyte imbalance, hypertension, or edema.
No confirmed poisoning symptoms documented; monitor for gastrointestinal distress if large quantities are ingested.
No confirmed poisoning symptoms documented; monitor for gastrointestinal distress if large quantities are ingested.
No confirmed poisoning symptoms documented; monitor for gastrointestinal distress if large quantities are ingested.
Toxicity Snapshot
First Aid & Prevention
First 30 Minutes
- • Remove all remaining licorice plant or product from the animal's mouth and environment to stop further consumption.
- • Record the approximate quantity consumed and time of ingestion for veterinary reference.
- • Monitor the animal for 24-48 hours for unusual behavior, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in thirst/urination.
Contact Vet Immediately
- • The animal has consumed very large quantities of licorice within the last 2 hours.
- • The animal displays persistent unusual symptoms including lethargy, gastrointestinal distress, or swelling.
- • The animal has pre-existing heart, kidney, or blood pressure conditions.
Prevention
- • Never use licorice as a feed supplement or forage for any companion or livestock animal species.
- • Store licorice plants and processed licorice products out of reach of pets and livestock.
- • Confirm correct identification of Fabaceae family plants before allowing animals to graze in areas where they grow.
Treatment & Prognosis
- • Supportive gastrointestinal decontamination if large quantities were ingested recently, as directed by a vet.
- • Symptomatic care for any observed adverse effects including gastrointestinal upset or electrolyte imbalance.
- • Monitoring of fluid, electrolyte, and blood pressure levels for animals that consumed very large quantities.
Professional Toxicology
• No specific toxic mechanism confirmed for acute exposure; high chronic intake of glycyrrhizin may disrupt electrolyte regulation and increase blood pressure.
Information from CliniTox veterinary text.
The following plants look similar and may be confused:
Related Toxic Plants


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Data Sources
This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.