Licorice Root Extract
Licorice root (Glycyrriza glabra) has a long history of use in Chinese medicine and is known as the "great harmonizer." It is frequently added to mixed botanical preparations to balance other herbs and to promote digestion and vitality.
Licorice root extract may be helpful for treating symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Studies have shown that the extract has estrogenic activity and may help to regulate the estrogen-progesterone ratio.1,2
Licorice root extract has also been studied for its anti-cancer activity3 , anti-viral activity 4,5 and its ability to promote the healing of gastric ulcers.6
Recent clinical data suggests that many of the phenolic compounds isolated from licorice root may also help to protect low density lipoprotein (LDL) and red blood cells from oxidative damage.7,8,9,10
Licorice root extract has been used in Japan for more than twenty years as a treatment for chronic hepatitis. Results from randomized clinical trials using licorice root have shown a significant reduction of serum amino-transferase and a significant improvement in liver histology.11,12
Licorice root is fifty times as sweet as sugar and is used in many types of products as a flavoring agent. Licorice candy contains little or no licorice extract and instead derives its flavor from anise.13
Sources and Recommended Intake
No Recommended Dietary allowance (RDA) has been established for Licorice root.
Licorice root is not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation.6
Abstracts
Vaya J, Belinky PA, Aviram M. Antioxidant constituents from licorice roots: isolation, structure elucidation and antioxidative capacity toward LDL oxidation. Free Radic Biol Med 1997; 23(2): 302-13.The present study analyzed the antioxidative properties of natural compounds from the root of the plant Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) toward LDL oxidation. Seven constituents, with antioxidant capacity were isolated from Glycyrrhiza glabra. The isolated compounds were identified as the isoflavan |
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