Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract

Types

Licorice root extract is derived from the bona fide liquorice root or glycyrrhiza glabra. It is known to be an old herbal remedy for several ailments. Various types of licorice extract are categorized based on their concentration, preparation, and intended use.

Here are some popular types:

• Standardized Glycyrrhizin Extracts

  These extracts are categorized and characterized by their glycyrrhizin content. They are usually delineated for medicinal applications where specific concentrations are required to derive necessary physiological effects. They are commonly used in traditional medicine and require rigorous testing for consistency and efficacy.

• Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Powder

  This is the pulverized form of liquorice root. It is utilized in its natural state without extraction. It is often used in herbal remedies, cosmetics, and food products. While it contains all the compounds of the root, including glycyrrhizin, the concentration of each active ingredient is not standardized.

• Liquid Licorice Extract

  This is typically alcohol-based or glycerin-based extracts of liquorice root. They can be more bioavailable than powdered forms. They are usually taken as dietary supplements. However, the glycyrrhizin concentration in liquid extracts can vary significantly between products.

• Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)

  This is a modified form of licorice extract from which most or all of the glycyrrhizin has been removed. It is used in dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals targeting digestive health. High levels of glycyrrhizin can cause side effects like hypertension. Therefore, DGL is preferred for long-term use.

• Powdered Extracts

  These are highly concentrated forms of glycyrrhiza glabra root extract, often available as a fine powder. They are used for their high potency and are often found in pharmaceutical-grade supplements. They usually contain a higher concentration of active compounds. However, they must be handled with care as they are more potent and sometimes require dilution before use.

• Capsules and Tablets

  These are convenient forms for licorice root extract that are easy to consume. They provide a consistent dosage, making them ideal for those who want to track their intake. Capsules can be made of gelatin or vegetarian material.

Ingredient & Function

Ingredients

Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract has many ingredients. They all work together to bring about the extract's multifarious health benefits.

• Glycyrrhizin

  This is the primary compound found in abundance in Glycyrrhiza glabra. It is responsible for the sweet flavor of licorice. It is also responsible for many of its medicinal properties. Glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, it is often used to alleviate respiratory issues like cough and bronchitis.

• Flavonoids

  Glycyrrhiza glabra is rich in flavonoids like liquiritin and isoliquiritin. They are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help protect the cells from oxidative stress. This is especially true for cells in the skin and liver. Additionally, flavonoids enhance the effectiveness of glycyrrhizin.

• Phenolic Compounds

  Phenolic compounds such as coumarin are abundant in glycyrrhiza glabra roots. They contribute to the roots' antifungal and antibacterial properties. This makes the extract effective for treating infections and promoting skin health. Furthermore, they support liver health by reducing inflammation.

• Saponins

  Saponins in liquorice root have been shown to boost the immune system. This is particularly helpful for people suffering from chronic illnesses or frequent infections. They also have the capability of promoting the absorption of glycyrrhizin and other active compounds. It helps improve the overall efficacy of the extract.

• Polysaccharides

  They aid in moisturizing and soothing the skin. This promotes overall skin health. They also help maintain the root's mucus-forming ability. This helps protect the gastrointestinal tract and prevent digestive issues.

Functions

• Anti-inflammatory Properties

  The glycyrrhizin in glycyrrhiza glabra root extract can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This makes it useful for treating conditions like arthritis, eczema, and other inflammatory diseases. It helps to diminish the inflammatory responses in cells. Hence, it eases symptoms like swelling and pain.

• Soothing Irritated Skin

  Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract can help relieve and calm irritated or sensitive skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness and irritation. This makes it a common ingredient in products for sensitive skin. It also helps to mitigate the effect of harsh chemicals or environmental stressors on the skin.

• Support for digestive health

  The extraction of glycyrrhiza glabra root has traditionally been used to support digestive health. It particularly helps mitigate ulcers and promotes gut health. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice is often used to soothe the stomach lining and promote healing in cases of gastritis and ulcers. This is because it doesn't contain glycyrrhizin, which can affect digestion negatively.

• Antiviral Activity

  The compounds in glycyrrhiza glabra root have been shown to be effective against certain viruses. These include the herpes simplex virus and the influenza virus. This makes it especially relevant in treating viral infections.

• Respiratory Health

  Liquorice root has been used in traditional medicine to relieve cough and respiratory issues. It acts as an expectorant. Therefore, it helps in the thinning of mucus and promotes its expulsion from the airways. This makes it particularly useful for individuals with asthma, bronchitis, or other respiratory conditions.

Commercial Value

Market Trends

The global liquorice market is on a steady rise. This is due to its expanding applications from traditional medicine to contemporary cosmetic and food industries.

Here are some key trends influencing the market:

• Growing Demand for Natural Ingredients

  There has been a notable shift toward natural and plant-based ingredients like glycyrrhiza glabra. This is for the increasing consumer preference for organic and natural products. The growing demand for adding glycyrrhiza glabra root extract in food and beverages as a natural sweetener and flavoring agent drives this trend further.

• Sustainability Concerns

  The cultivation and harvesting of liquorice plants have considerable environmental impacts over time. This is especially if not done sustainably. Consequently, many producers are seeking more sustainable farming practices. This is to ensure the long-term viability of their operations. They are also searching for certified suppliers who adhere to ethical labor practices.

• Product Innovation

  The extract's growing use in novel applications like food, beverages, and cosmetics is leading to increased product innovation. Manufacturers have been creating liquorice root extract candies, health drinks, and skincare products to meet the evolving consumer preferences and needs.

• Regulatory Developments

  There are always changing regulations regarding the use and concentration of glycyrrhizin in food and herbal supplements. They are significantly affecting the liquorice market. Industry players must comply with such regulations so that they can ensure product safety and efficacy.

Market Pricing

Several factors come into play when considering the market pricing of glycyrrhiza glabra root extract. These factors include quality, type, supplier, demand and availability, application, market trends, and geographical location.

The extract is generally available in two forms: bulk and packaged. The bulk form is typically cheaper than the packaged form. Likewise, powdered extracts tend to be more affordable than liquid extracts. This is because the latter often includes additional processing steps.

Business Opportunities

• Sourcing from Reliable Suppliers

  Businesses wishing to stock up on quality stock have to ensure they source their glycyrrhiza glabra root extract from reliable suppliers. They also have to ensure that the extracts they purchase meet all required quality and safety standards. Building long-term relationships with trustworthy suppliers who can provide consistent, quality products can lead to better pricing and reliable supply chains.

• Diverse Product Offerings

  Businesses have to consider extending their product range to include different concentrations and forms of glycyrrhiza glabra. This will allow them to cater to various customer preferences. They also have to explore value-added products. These are products that incorporate licorice root extract with other herbal ingredients to enhance synergy and effectiveness.

• Education and Marketing

  Businesses have to invest in educational initiatives. They will have to inform customers of the benefits and uses of licorice extract in varied applications. This will promote product understanding and drive sales. They have to focus on marketing strategies that highlight the unique selling points of their extract products. For example, they can emphasize their natural origin, sustainability, and health benefits.

• Customization and Private Labeling

  They will have to offer custom formulations to meet specific market demands. For instance, they can provide adaptogenic blends or formulations targeting niche health concerns. Likewise, private labeling allows businesses to sell licorice root products under their own brand. It provides a unique market identity.

Scenarios

How to Use

• Standardized Licorice Extract

  It can be administered as a syrup for soothing coughs. The syrup coats the throat, reducing irritation, and is typically taken in teaspoons as needed.

• DGL Licorice Tablets

  Deglycyrrhizinated licorice tablets are normally used for digestive issues like acid reflux and ulcers. Users are usually advised to chew the tablets slowly for optimal release of the soothing extract before swallowing.

• Licorice Gel

  The gel is mostly applied topically. People apply it on the skin to reduce inflammation or irritation. It is commonly used in skincare to alleviate conditions such as eczema or dermatitis. Users are normally advised to apply a thin layer on clean, affected areas and allow it to absorb.

• Licorice Root Powder

  This can be used in tea for its benefits. It is mostly combined with other herbs for a soothing beverage that supports skin and respiratory health. Consumers also incorporate the powder into homemade face masks for brightening and anti-aging effects.

• Licorice Oil

  Liquorice oil is usually inghaled for its potential to relieve stress and anxiety. People add a few drops to a diffuser. This allows the soothing aroma to fill the environment and promote relaxation.

Medical Scenario

• Chronic Inflammation Management

  A medical practitioner can administer glycyrrhiza glabra root extract to a patient suffering from chronic inflammation. This will help minimize the patient's inflammation and associated discomfort. The practitioner will then closely monitor the patient's response to the treatment, adjusting the dosage as necessary to ensure optimal results.

• Respiratory Treatment

  Medical practitioners will mostly utilize standardized licorice extracts in hospitalized patients with respiratory infections. They do this when conventional treatments have proven ineffective. They will use the extract as an adjunct therapy to help reduce inflammation in the airways. This will ease the respiratory distress.

• Skin Disorders

  A dermatologist usually prescribes glycyrrhiza glabra extract to patients with psoriasis or eczema. They predominantly do this when other topical treatments have failed. The anti-inflammatory properties of the extract come into play here. They help reduce irritation and normalize skin.

• Gastrointestinal Protection

  Healthcare professionals normally recommend liquorice root extract to patients with gastric ulcers. It helps to promote healing by protecting the gastric mucosa. They normally monitor the patients' blood pressure and potassium levels during the treatment.

• Antiviral Activity

  A healthcare professional can use glycyrrhizin extract on patients infected with the flu and other viral infections. She does so to alleviate the symptoms. However, they have to monitor the patient's response to treatment closely. They have to make sure there are no adverse interactions with other ongoing medications.

Case Scenario

• Instant Soothing Syrup

  A busy mother decides to keep a bottle of glycyrrhiza glabra root extract syrup on hand for her family. Whenever one of her children comes down with a cough, she gives the syrup a few times daily for instant relief.

• Feel Good at Work Tablets

  A corporate employee often suffers from acid reflux due to his high-stress job. He takes licorice DGL tablets daily. They help alleviate his symptoms and permit him to focus on work without discomfort.

• Bright & Beautiful Skin Gel

  A woman with chronic eczema applies licorice gel every evening after her shower. This helps to ease her eczema and calm her skin. It helps her feel more comfortable and reclaim confidence.

• Tea Time Tradition

  An elderly couple adds licorice root powder to their nightly herbal tea. They enjoy its sweet flavor while reaping the benefits of better digestion and relaxed muscles after a long day.

• Calm & Collected Oil

  A stressed-out student uses liquorice root oil in his diffuser while studying for exams. The soothing aroma helps him stay focused and calm.

Q&A

Q1. Which people should avoid taking glycyrrhiza glabra root extract?

A1. Licorice extract

Q2.Which factors act as the main determinants of the long-term use of glycyrrhiza glabra root extract?