Licorice Root Soothing Balm
balm
Ingredients
Conditions addressed
How to use
Apply a small amount to the affected area 1–2× daily. Patch-test on a small area of skin first.
- A traditional balm made from Licorice root extract, Shea butter, Calendula oil, Beeswax.
- Prepare in small batches and store in a cool, dark place.
Interactions & contraindications
Licorice root extract
Full profile- CNS medications (benzodiazepines, SSRIs, MAOIs) — may potentiate sedative or serotonergic effects
Pregnancy
AvoidWell-documented risk in pregnancy — regular/high licorice consumption (glycyrrhizin) has been linked in research to earlier delivery and effects on child cortisol regulation and behavioral development; most sources advise avoiding significant amounts, especially the concentrated root/extract form.
Breastfeeding
Use CautionGlycyrrhizin passes into milk; regular use is generally limited given its effect on blood pressure and potassium levels.
Children
Use CautionSmall culinary/candy amounts are generally fine occasionally; regular or concentrated use can affect blood pressure and potassium levels and is not recommended for daily use.
Blood pressure medications
Can raise blood pressure and counteract antihypertensives with prolonged use.
Digoxin
Licorice-induced potassium loss increases digoxin toxicity risk.
Diuretics, corticosteroids
Additive potassium depletion.
Shea butter
Full profileNo herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for Shea butter in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on Shea butter itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.
Pregnancy
Insufficient DataNo specific pregnancy safety research is documented for this herb in our references. This doesn't mean it's unsafe — it means it hasn't been well studied. Treat as unstudied and avoid unless a midwife or doctor familiar with your pregnancy advises otherwise.
Breastfeeding
Insufficient DataNo specific breastfeeding safety research is documented for this herb in our references. Treat as unstudied and consult a lactation consultant, midwife, or doctor before use.
Children
Insufficient DataNo specific pediatric safety/dosage research is documented for this herb in our references. Treat as unstudied and consult a pediatrician or pediatric herbalist before giving to a child.
No specific drug or herb interactions are documented for Shea butter in our references. This doesn’t mean none exist — always check with a pharmacist or doctor before combining any new herb with prescription medication.
Calendula oil
Full profilePregnancy
Likely SafeTopical use (creams, salves, washes) is widely considered one of the safest herbs in pregnancy for skin healing. Internal/oral use has more limited data and a theoretical emmenagogue reputation, so it's used more cautiously.
Breastfeeding
Likely SafeTopical use is widely used for nipple/skin care while breastfeeding and considered very safe.
Children
Likely SafeWidely used topically for children's skin irritation, diaper rash, and minor wounds — one of the gentlest, most commonly used pediatric topical herbs.
As a member of the Asteraceae (ragweed/daisy) family, this herb carries a real chance of cross-reaction in anyone allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or daisies — introduce cautiously if there's a known allergy.
No specific drug or herb interactions are documented for Calendula oil in our references. This doesn’t mean none exist — always check with a pharmacist or doctor before combining any new herb with prescription medication.
Beeswax
No herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for Beeswax in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on Beeswax itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.
Pregnancy
Insufficient DataNo specific pregnancy safety research is documented for this herb in our references. This doesn't mean it's unsafe — it means it hasn't been well studied. Treat as unstudied and avoid unless a midwife or doctor familiar with your pregnancy advises otherwise.
Breastfeeding
Insufficient DataNo specific breastfeeding safety research is documented for this herb in our references. Treat as unstudied and consult a lactation consultant, midwife, or doctor before use.
Children
Insufficient DataNo specific pediatric safety/dosage research is documented for this herb in our references. Treat as unstudied and consult a pediatrician or pediatric herbalist before giving to a child.
No specific drug or herb interactions are documented for Beeswax in our references. This doesn’t mean none exist — always check with a pharmacist or doctor before combining any new herb with prescription medication.