Licorice Juice: Benefits, Uses, and How to Make It at Home

A refreshing, naturally sweet drink with centuries of tradition behind it

What Is Licorice Juice?

Licorice juice — also known as licorice root tea, licorice water, or by its Middle Eastern name, erk sous — is a dark, naturally sweet beverage made by steeping or pressing the dried root of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra). Unlike the chewy black candy that shares its name, licorice juice is a pure, unsweetened extract of the root itself, prized for its earthy flavor and long history in traditional medicine and culinary culture.

Popular across the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia, licorice juice is especially beloved during Ramadan, when it’s served chilled as a refreshing way to break the daily fast. It’s also gaining attention worldwide as a natural remedy and a caffeine-free alternative to sugary soft drinks.

Where Does Licorice Root Come From?

Licorice root is harvested from a perennial legume native to parts of Europe and Asia. The root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that is roughly 30 to 50 times sweeter than sugar, which explains why licorice juice tastes naturally sweet without any added sugar. This same compound is responsible for many of the plant’s traditional health associations, though it’s also the reason licorice should be consumed in moderation (more on that below).

Potential Benefits of Licorice Juice

Licorice root has been used in traditional and herbal medicine for thousands of years. While it isn’t a substitute for medical treatment, people have traditionally turned to licorice juice for:

• Soothing digestion — traditionally used to ease occasional stomach discomfort and bloating
• Calming a sore throat or cough — often included in herbal teas for its soothing, demulcent properties
• Antioxidant support — licorice root contains plant compounds (flavonoids) associated with antioxidant activity
• Hydration during fasting — a popular choice to replenish fluids and electrolytes after fasting

As always, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider before making licorice juice a regular part of your diet, particularly if you have high blood pressure, are pregnant, or take medication (see the caution note at the end of this article).

How to Make Licorice Juice at Home

Homemade licorice juice requires just one ingredient — dried licorice root — and a little patience. Here’s a simple, traditional method.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried licorice root sticks or shredded licorice root (available at Middle Eastern grocers or online herbal shops)
• 6–8 cups cold water
• Ice, for serving
• Optional: a squeeze of lemon or a few mint leaves for extra brightness

Equipment

• A large glass or non-reactive bowl or jar
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Wooden spoon (avoid metal utensils and containers, which can react with the root)

Instructions

1. Rinse the root. Give the dried licorice root a quick rinse under cold water to remove any dust.
2. Soak. Place the licorice root in a large glass jar or bowl and cover it with the cold water. Cover and refrigerate, letting it steep for at least 8 hours or overnight. Cold-steeping (rather than boiling) helps preserve the delicate flavor and avoids an overly bitter result.
3. Stir occasionally. If you’re around, give the mixture a gentle stir once or twice to help the flavor release evenly.
4. Strain. Once steeped, strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean pitcher, pressing gently on the root to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
5. Chill and serve. Serve the juice cold over ice. Add a squeeze of lemon or a few mint leaves if you like a brighter, more aromatic finish.
6. Store. Keep any leftover juice covered in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2–3 days for the best flavor.

Tip for a Stronger Brew

For a more concentrated juice (closer to the traditional Middle Eastern style), simmer the root gently in water for 10–15 minutes instead of cold-steeping, then let it cool completely before straining. This produces a bolder, more robust flavor but can taste more bitter if simmered too long, so keep a close eye on it.

How Does Licorice Juice Taste?

Licorice juice has a distinctive flavor: naturally sweet up front, with an earthy, slightly bitter, almost anise-like finish. If you enjoy fennel, star anise, or root beer, you’ll likely find the flavor familiar and enjoyable. First-time tasters sometimes find it an acquired taste, so starting with a small glass is a good way to see how you like it.

A Note on Moderation

Because licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, drinking large quantities regularly has been linked to effects like elevated blood pressure and lowered potassium levels in some people. Most health guidance suggests limiting licorice intake and avoiding it altogether during pregnancy or if you have hypertension, heart, or kidney conditions. As with any herbal preparation, moderation and a conversation with your doctor are the safest approach.

Final Thoughts

Licorice juice is a simple, naturally sweet, and refreshing drink that’s easy to make with just dried root and water. Whether you’re drawn to its traditional role in Ramadan celebrations, its distinctive anise-like flavor, or its long history in herbal wellness, this centuries-old beverage is well worth trying at home.