[Lotus]

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Licorice - Anti-androgenic and activates alpha and beta estrogen receptors and blocks 5-ar - Strong, but take in moderation! 

Thanks for the awesome thread!  Why does I need to take with moderation?
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Taking Licorice can increase your blood pressure. Monitor your BP if you take Licorice. There's DGL Licorice which doesn't have the risk of raising BP. And, if someone has diabetes or are overweight I would advise to steer clear of LR. Menia, you fit (and looking great).

DGL licorice root is the safer option, most of the glycyrrhizin is removed. The glycyrrhizin causes edema, high blood pressure, (via aldersterone). DGL Is said to help alleviate fatigue and gastrointestinal issues.

Licorice root is for short term use, (4-6 weeks), though I'd monitor blood pressure. As always, check with a medical professional before beginning new supplements.


Reishi should be standardized, the cost will vary.....you can find polysaccharides standardized from 10 to 30%, triterpenes around zero to  be @ 7-8%. 

Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi or Reishi)
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92757/?report=classic

Honestly I think green tea extract is better because it promotes aromatase in addition to inhibiting DHT. Though caffeine-free GTE is preferable imo.

Green tea blocks type 1 5-alpha-reductase (5AR) too.