North Seattle Natural Medicine

02/08/2026

02/02/2026

Dr. Lush loves putting licorice solid extract (right now she likes the Traditional Medicinal brand) in her coffee each morning and thought she would share why! (other than the yummy taste):

Why Licorice Is Often Taken in the Morning
1. Supports Morning Cortisol Tone

Whole-root licorice (glycyrrhizin-containing) inhibits the enzyme 11β-HSD2, which normally converts cortisol → cortisone.
Result: Higher circulating cortisol activity, which can help in people with:

Low morning energy

Low blood pressure

“Wired but tired” adrenal patterns

Orthostatic symptoms

Because cortisol is naturally highest in the morning, licorice tends to work with the circadian rhythm rather than against it.

2. Energy and Mental Clarity

By modestly sustaining cortisol signaling, some people experience:

Better morning alertness

Reduced mid-morning crash

Improved stress tolerance

This is not a stimulant effect like caffeine; it’s endocrine modulation.

3. Gastrointestinal Soothing

Licorice root can:

Increase mucus production in the stomach

Support gastric lining repair

Help with dyspepsia or mild reflux

This is why it’s historically used in gastritis and ulcer support formulas.

Timing: Empty Stomach vs With Food

Both are used clinically:

Empty stomach: more direct mucosal contact for GI soothing

With breakfast: gentler on sensitive stomachs and still supports cortisol rhythm

Either is reasonable; choose based on tolerance.

Important Safety Considerations (Often Overlooked)
Blood Pressure & Electrolytes

Glycyrrhizin can cause pseudo-hyperaldosteronism:

Elevated blood pressure

Low potassium

Fluid retention

Headache

Risk increases with:

Higher doses

Daily use beyond ~4–6 weeks

Existing hypertension

Kidney disease

Diuretics or steroids

Monitor BP and potassium if using regularly.

Who Should Avoid or Use Caution

Uncontrolled hypertension

Chronic kidney disease

Heart failure

Pregnancy

People on:

Diuretics

Digoxin

Corticosteroids

Certain antihypertensives

DGL vs Whole Licorice

DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice):

Good for stomach support

Does NOT raise cortisol or BP

It is effective but not benign—blood pressure and potassium effects are real.

DGL for stomach; whole licorice for adrenal/cortisol support.

Best used thoughtfully, short-term, and with monitoring in regular users.

02/01/2026

Celebrate Black History Month!

02/01/2026

Many shots seem to have “off-target” benefits, such as lowering the risk of dementia, studies have found.

01/31/2026

If you are in menopause (or thinking about joining the club)- this song is for you!

Who said rock songs can’t be about the menopause 🎸💥 No apologies - just noise. Five fierce women crank up the volume to get their voices heard i...

01/30/2026

Our clinic will remain open on the National Shutdown on January 30th to serve our community but please know we support you and we deeply believe that NO HUMAN IS ILLEGAL. Thank you for taking to the streets tomorrow!

01/21/2026

Third Place Commons

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Due to a recent measles outbreak in Snohomish County, Third Place Commons is partnering with Public Health – Seattle & King County and Snohomish County Health Department to stand up a vaccination clinic this Thursday the 22nd from 2:30-5:30 p.m. MMR vaccinations will be provided for all age groups at NO COST, regardless of insurance status. All other childhood vaccinations will also be provided at no cost for people under age 19, and COVID and flu vaccines will be available for uninsured adults at no cost. No proof of residency required. Come take advantage of this easy, effective opportunity to protect yourself and others!

Walk-ins welcome but registrations prioritized and encouraged: https://birdseye-wa.cdn.prod.prepmodapp.com/.../registrat...
City of Lake Forest Park Public Health - Seattle & King County City of Shoreline City Hall City of Kenmore - Government .lfp.senior.center .shoreline Center for Human Services

01/21/2026

12/31/2025

Happy 2026 and we wish you a year full of health and happiness and fulfillment of your dreams!

12/29/2025

Dr. Jenn Dazey, assisted by Dr. Megan Saunders, led a traditional botanical class for medical students in the jungles of Costa Rica for a week! Then Dr. Jennifer Lush joined them for the fun part of hiking, beaches and coffee tasting! See you all in 2026!

12/24/2025

Caravan Kebab owner and chef Shahzad Raja will be distributing more than 100 meals to people in need around South Snohomish County on Christmas Day. Raja will be doing the […]