11 Best Benefits Of Glycyrrhiza Glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice root, is a plant native to southern Europe and Asia, valued for its medicinal and culinary properties.
The bioactive compounds responsible for its benefits include glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and triterpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Glycyrrhiza glabra has been found to reduce inflammation, ease digestive issues such as bloating and nausea, and improve liver function by stimulating the production of bile and protecting against liver damage.
The plant's bioactive compounds work together to promote overall health and well-being, making it a popular ingredient in herbal remedies and traditional medicine.
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According to Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, Glycyrrhiza glabra has been found to have various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, laxative, anti-depressive, anti-ulcer and anti-diabetic properties.
This page lists the most important health benefits of Glycyrrhiza glabra.
Table of Contents
1. Reduces inflammation
Glycyrrhiza glabra reduces inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby decreasing redness, swelling, and pain in affected areas.
This benefit is crucial because chronic inflammation is linked to various conditions such as arthritis, gout, and even certain types of cancer, where it can lead to severe pain, joint damage, and decreased quality of life.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra can be attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and triterpenoid saponins, which have been shown to possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.
To harness the anti-inflammatory benefits of Glycyrrhiza glabra, it is best used in herbal preparations such as teas, tinctures, or capsules, where it can be taken orally in moderate doses, ideally after consulting with a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective use.
Top Preparations:
- Glycyrrhizin tincture
- Licorice root extract
- Infusion
- Licorice root tea
- Glycyrrhizin capsules
The following table displays the major constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces inflammation.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Glycyrrhizin | Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout |
| Licoricidin | Inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, crohn's disease |
| Isoflavans | Painful menstrual cramps, endometriosis, fibromyalgia |
| Glycyrrhetinic acid | Asthma, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia |
| Ursolic acid | Skin inflammation, acne, psoriasis |
2. Eases digestive issues
Glycyrrhiza glabra eases digestive issues by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of the gastrointestinal tract, thereby alleviating symptoms of digestive disorders such as bloating, gas, and abdominal pain.
This benefit is particularly important for individuals who experience frequent digestive discomforts, as it can significantly impact their quality of life and overall well-being.
Glycyrrhiza glabra's ability to ease digestive issues is attributed to its bioactive constituents, including glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and triterpenes, which possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
To harness the digestive benefits of this plant, it is best to consume it in herbal preparations such as licorice root tea, capsules, or tinctures, which can be used to soothe digestive issues and promote overall gut health.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Licorice root tea
- Glycyrrhizin capsules
- Licorice root extract
The following table displays the major constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Eases digestive issues.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Glycyrrhizin | Irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, peptic ulcer |
| Licopyranocoumarin | Gastritis, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis |
| Isoliquiritigenin | Hepatitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, celiac disease |
| 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid | Crohn's disease, leaky gut syndrome, bloating |
| Ursolic acid | Stomach pain, bacterial overgrowth, food intolerance |
3. Improves liver function
Glycyrrhiza glabra improves liver function by enhancing the liver's ability to detoxify and metabolize substances, ultimately reducing the risk of liver damage and disease.
This benefit is crucial as liver dysfunction can lead to conditions such as jaundice, cirrhosis, and liver failure, which can result in serious health complications and even death.
The plant's ability to improve liver function can be attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and triterpenoids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
To utilize Glycyrrhiza glabra for its liver-protective benefits, it is best to consume it in the form of standardized herbal extracts or teas, as well as licorice root supplements, which are available in various forms, including capsules and tinctures.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Licorice root extract
- Glycyrrhizin capsules
- Dgl capsules ( de-glycyrrhizinated)
- Tea
The following table displays the major constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves liver function.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Glycyrrhetinic acid | Hepatitis, fatty liver, liver cirrhosis |
| 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid | Liver inflammation, hepatic encephalopathy, liver fibrosis |
| Glycyrrhizin | Liver toxicity, hepatomegaly, liver failure |
4. Suppresses cough
Glycyrrhiza glabra suppresses cough, which refers to its ability to reduce or eliminate coughing.
This benefit is important because coughing can be a symptom of various respiratory conditions, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, or asthma, and can disrupt daily activities, cause fatigue, and lead to complications if left untreated.
The plant's cough-suppressing properties are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects.
To utilize this benefit, Glycyrrhiza glabra can be consumed in the form of herbal teas, tinctures, or lozenges, which can be easily prepared by steeping dried roots in hot water or using a standardized extract in a convenient dosage form.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Syrup
- Lozenges
- Expectorant
- Infusion
The following table displays the major constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Suppresses cough.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Glycyrrhizin | Bronchitis, whooping cough, asthma |
| Licorinic acid | Dry cough, irritable cough, inflammatory cough |
| Isoliquiritigenin | Chronic cough, throat irritation, respiratory infection |
5. Fights respiratory infections
Glycyrrhiza glabra fights respiratory infections by preventing the proliferation of harmful bacteria and viruses that cause respiratory infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
This benefit is crucial because respiratory infections can be life-threatening, especially for people with pre-existing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, and can cause significant morbidity and mortality.
The plant's ability to fight respiratory infections is attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and saponins, which exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
To harness this benefit, Glycyrrhiza glabra can be used in herbal preparations such as teas, tinctures, and cough syrups, or as a powder supplement, in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Licorice root extract
- Infusion
- Licorice root tea
- Decoction
The following table displays the major constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Fights respiratory infections.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Glycyrrhizin | Pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis |
| Liquiritin | Cough, sore throat, laryngitis |
| Isoliquiritin | Bronchitis, pleurisy, asthma |
6. Lowers blood pressure
Glycyrrhiza glabra lowers blood pressure by reducing the force of blood against the artery walls, thereby decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
This benefit is important because high blood pressure can lead to serious health issues, such as heart failure, stroke, and kidney disease, which can result in hospitalizations, disability, and even death.
The ability of Glycyrrhiza glabra to lower blood pressure can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, including glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and triterpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory effects.
To harness this benefit, Glycyrrhiza glabra can be used in herbal preparations such as teas, capsules, or tinctures, typically in combination with other herbs, and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, to ensure safe and effective use.
Top Preparations:
- Glycyrrhizin tincture
- Licorice root tea ()
- Glycyrrhizin capsules
- Dgl () tablets
- Extract
The following table displays the major constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Lowers blood pressure.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Glycyrrhetinic acid | Hypertension, angina pectoris, cardiovascular disease |
| Licoricidin | Hypertension, hypotension, cardiovascular disease |
| Licorisoflavan a | Hypertension, angina pectoris, cardiovascular disease |
| Licorinic acid | Hypertension, angina pectoris, cardiovascular disease |
| Isoliquiritigenin | Hypertension, angina pectoris, cardiovascular disease |
7. Reduces nausea
Glycyrrhiza glabra reduces nausea, which is a beneficial effect characterized by the alleviation of queasiness and discomfort associated with vomiting or the urge to vomit.
This benefit is important because nausea can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and impaired nutrient absorption, making it a critical issue for individuals undergoing chemotherapy, experiencing morning sickness during pregnancy, or recovering from surgery.
The glycosides, particularly glycyrrhizin, and triterpenoids present in Glycyrrhiza glabra are responsible for its anti-nausea properties, as they have been shown to exert a soothing effect on the stomach and intestines.
To harness the anti-nausea effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra, it is best used in herbal preparations such as teas, capsules, or tinctures, which can be consumed as needed to alleviate nausea and promote digestive comfort.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Tea
- Extract capsules
- Licorice root infusion
- Dgl () lozenges
The following table displays the major constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces nausea.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Glycyrrhizin | Motion sickness, morning sickness, travel sickness |
| Licoricidin | Peptic ulcer nausea, cancer chemotherapy nausea, postoperative nausea |
| Glycyrol | Nausea due to pregnancy, nausea due to gastrointestinal disorders, nausea due to infections |
8. Soothes sore throats
Glycyrrhiza glabra soothes sore throats by reducing inflammation and discomfort in the throat, providing relief from pain and discomfort caused by sore throats.
This benefit is crucial as sore throats can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to speak, swallow, and even breathe, as seen in cases of postnasal drip, acid reflux, and viral infections.
The plant's ability to soothe sore throats is attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and triterpenoids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
To harness this benefit, one can use glycyrrhiza glabra in herbal preparations such as licorice root tea, lozenges, or throat sprays, which can be taken 2-3 times a day to alleviate sore throat symptoms.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Infused oil
- Herbal tea
- Lozenges
- Syrup
The following table displays the major constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Soothes sore throats.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Glycyrrhizin | Sore throat, laryngitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, hoarseness |
| Licopyrones | Sore throat, tonsillitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, epiglottitis |
| Isoliquiritigenin | Sore throat, tonsillitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, strep throat |
| 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid | Sore throat, tonsillitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, hypopharyngeal infection |
| Ursolic acid | Sore throat, tonsillitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, pneumonia |
9. Reduces blood sugar levels
Glycyrrhiza glabra reduces blood sugar levels, a benefit that refers to the plant's ability to lower the concentration of glucose in the bloodstream, thereby reducing the risk of developing or exacerbating conditions such as diabetes.
This benefit is particularly important because high blood sugar levels can lead to serious complications, including nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision loss, making it essential for individuals with diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels effectively.
Glycyrrhiza glabra's blood sugar-reducing properties are attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, glycosides, and saponins, which have been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake in the body.
To harness the blood sugar-reducing benefits of Glycyrrhiza glabra, it is best to consume it in the form of herbal preparations, such as tea, capsules, or tinctures, under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective use.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Licorice root tincture
- Glycyrrhizinic acid
The following table displays the major constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces blood sugar levels.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Glycyrrhizin | Diabetes, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance |
| Licopyranocoumarin | Hypoglycemia, glucose intolerance, prediabetes |
| Glycyrrhetinic acid | Glycemic control, blood sugar imbalance, metabolic syndrome |
10. Improves immune system
Glycyrrhiza glabra improves immune system by enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms against pathogens, which is defined as the ability to resist or recover from infectious diseases.
This benefit is crucial because a weakened immune system can lead to a range of health issues, such as increased susceptibility to illnesses like the common cold, flu, and other viral infections, as well as impaired wound healing and compromised overall health.
The immunomodulatory effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra are attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and triterpenoid saponins, which have been shown to modulate immune cell activity and reduce inflammation.
To harness the immune-boosting properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra, it is best used in herbal preparations such as teas, capsules, or tinctures, often in combination with other immune-stimulating herbs, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Glycyrrhizin capsules
- Licorice root extract
The following table displays the major constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves immune system.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Glycyrrhizin | Malaria, typhoid fever, measles |
| Licoricidin | Herpes, hiv, tuberculosis |
| Isoliquiritigenin | Influenza, pneumonia, bronchitis |
11. Soothes skin irritations
Glycyrrhiza glabra soothes skin irritations, which refers to its ability to calm and comfort irritated skin, reducing redness, inflammation, and discomfort.
This benefit is crucial as skin irritations can be a source of distress, especially for individuals with sensitive skin, eczema, or skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
The plant's soothing properties can be attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, saponins, and triterpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
To harness the soothing benefits of Glycyrrhiza glabra, it can be used in herbal preparations such as topical creams, ointments, or infusions, or as a supplement in capsule form, allowing individuals to apply or ingest the plant's beneficial compounds directly.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Licorice root cream
- Glycyrrhizinic acid ointment
- Licorice extract lotion
The following table displays the major constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Soothes skin irritations.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Glycyrrhizin | Eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis |
| Licoricidol | Skin redness, inflammation, acne |
| Isoliquiritigenin | Rosacea, sunburn, skin irritation |
| 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid | Atopic dermatitis, skin allergies, hives |