Chinese Licorice Root Extract
Also known as: Glycyrrhiza glabra, Glycyrrhiza inflata, Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Chinese Licorice Root, Licorice Root
Overview
Chinese Licorice Root, derived from the roots of *Glycyrrhiza* species, is a traditional herbal supplement renowned for its therapeutic properties. It is primarily used to address gastrointestinal disorders, liver diseases, and inflammatory conditions. The root is characterized by its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and immunomodulatory effects, making it a versatile remedy in traditional Chinese medicine. The active compounds, including glycyrrhizin, contribute to its beneficial effects. Glycyrrhizin is converted to glycyrrhetic acid in the gut, which has corticosteroid-like effects. It is available in various forms, including teas, capsules, and extracts. While preclinical evidence is robust, more clinical trials are needed to fully validate its efficacy and safety in humans. The quality of available evidence varies, with preclinical studies providing stronger support than clinical trials.
Benefits
Chinese Licorice Root offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily centered around its anti-inflammatory and gastrointestinal effects. Studies have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory action, with licorice extract and its compounds reducing TNF-α, MMPs, and PGE2, key markers of inflammation. Preclinical models of ulcerative colitis have shown that licorice root can reduce inflammation and improve colonic health. Furthermore, glycyrrhizic acid, a major component, may aid in reducing liver fibrosis by inhibiting TGF-β1 signaling. These benefits are particularly relevant for individuals with inflammatory or gastrointestinal conditions. While preclinical studies show significant reductions in inflammatory markers and improvements in gastrointestinal health, more human studies are needed to confirm these effects and determine the time course of benefits.
How it works
Chinese Licorice Root exerts its effects through multiple biological pathways. Its anti-inflammatory action involves reducing key inflammatory markers such as TNF-α, MMPs, and PGE2. Additionally, it exhibits antioxidative and immunomodulatory properties. The primary active compound, glycyrrhizin, is converted in the gut to glycyrrhetic acid, which has corticosteroid-like effects. These mechanisms influence the digestive system, liver, and immune system. Molecular targets include TNF-α, MMPs, PGE2, and TGF-β1. The gut conversion of glycyrrhizin to glycyrrhetic acid influences its absorption and bioavailability, contributing to its systemic effects.
Side effects
While generally considered safe when used appropriately, chronic use of Chinese Licorice Root can lead to several side effects. Common side effects include hypokalemia and hypertension, resulting from its mineralocorticoid-like activity. Less common side effects are edema and headache. Rare but severe side effects involve mineralocorticoid excess. Drug interactions may occur with corticosteroids and diuretics, potentially exacerbating electrolyte imbalances. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, severe hypertension, and kidney disease. Caution is advised for individuals with cardiovascular conditions. Due to the potential for mineralocorticoid-like effects, monitoring blood pressure and potassium levels is crucial during chronic use. Excessive consumption should be avoided to prevent these adverse effects.
Dosage
The optimal dosage of Chinese Licorice Root varies depending on the intended use and individual factors. Typically, a dosage of 1-4 grams of dried root per day is recommended. However, the minimum effective dose for specific conditions is not well-established. Chronic use should be limited to avoid potential side effects. There are no specific timing recommendations for administration. It is available in various forms, including teas, capsules, and extracts. The bioavailability of glycyrrhizin, the active compound, is influenced by its conversion to glycyrrhetic acid in the gut. Due to the risk of mineralocorticoid-like effects, it is crucial to avoid excessive consumption and monitor for any adverse reactions.
FAQs
What precautions should I take when using Chinese Licorice Root?
Monitor your blood pressure and potassium levels, especially during chronic use. Avoid excessive consumption to prevent mineralocorticoid-like side effects.
When is the best time to take Chinese Licorice Root?
There are no specific timing recommendations for taking Chinese Licorice Root. Consistency is more important than timing.
How long does it take to see the benefits of Chinese Licorice Root?
It may take several weeks of consistent use to notice any benefits. Individual results may vary.
Is Chinese Licorice Root safe for everyone?
No, it is not safe for everyone. Avoid if pregnant, have severe hypertension, or kidney disease. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Can Chinese Licorice Root replace medical treatment?
No, it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment without consulting a healthcare provider. It is a supplement, not a replacement for prescribed medications.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35671864/ – A systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies found that licorice extract significantly reduced colitis severity and inflammatory markers in ulcerative colitis models. The study highlights the potential of licorice extract as a therapeutic agent for managing ulcerative colitis, but emphasizes the need for human trials to validate these findings.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27650551/ – This review of anti-inflammatory properties highlights that licorice compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by reducing TNF-α and other inflammatory markers. The review suggests that licorice compounds could be beneficial in managing inflammatory conditions, but notes that more clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects in humans.
- https://www.scielo.br/j/cta/a/8BkTCwd3yPd43tqdpQ3f9NQ/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis focuses on the anti-liver fibrosis effects of glycyrrhizic acid, demonstrating its ability to reduce TGF-β1 and liver fibrosis markers. The study suggests that glycyrrhizic acid may be a useful therapeutic agent for managing liver fibrosis, but acknowledges the limitations due to the scarcity of human studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31874059/ – This study investigates the mechanisms by which glycyrrhizin and its metabolites affect the cardiovascular system, highlighting potential risks associated with mineralocorticoid excess. The research emphasizes the importance of monitoring blood pressure and electrolyte balance when using licorice-containing products, especially in individuals with cardiovascular conditions.
- https://www.scielo.br/j/cta/a/8BkTCwd3yPd43tqdpQ3f9NQ/?format=pdf&lang=en – This is a duplicate entry of the third research source, focusing on the anti-liver fibrosis effects of glycyrrhizic acid. It demonstrates its ability to reduce TGF-β1 and liver fibrosis markers, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for managing liver fibrosis, while acknowledging the limitations due to the scarcity of human studies.
Supplements Containing Chinese Licorice Root Extract
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