Licorice Root Glycerite Liquid Extract
Also known as: Licorice root, licorice extract, licorice glycerite, Radix glycyrrhizae, Glycyrrhiza glabra
Overview
Licorice root glycerite liquid extract is a concentrated herbal preparation derived from the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, extracted using glycerin as a solvent. This botanical has a long history of use in traditional medicine across various cultures for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidative properties. It is commonly utilized for gastrointestinal issues, respiratory infections, oral health conditions, and skin ailments. The glycerite form is a liquid extract that effectively preserves the bioactive compounds, facilitating ease of administration and absorption. Key bioactive compounds include glycyrrhizin, glabridin, isoliquiritigenin, and licochalcone, which collectively contribute to its diverse pharmacological effects. Research on licorice root is extensive, with numerous clinical trials and reviews supporting its traditional uses, although the quality of evidence can vary by specific indication. Systematic reviews have been conducted, particularly highlighting its efficacy in oral health applications such as recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS).
Benefits
Licorice root glycerite offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily in oral health. A systematic review of six clinical trials involving 314 subjects demonstrated significant reductions in pain, ulcer size, and healing time for recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), showing dose-dependent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects (p < 0.05). This makes it particularly beneficial for patients suffering from recurrent oral ulcers. It also exhibits strong antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens like *Streptococcus mutans* and *Porphyromonas gingivalis*, which is relevant for preventing dental caries and periodontitis. Beyond oral health, licorice root possesses anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that may be beneficial in respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions, though evidence is strongest for oral applications. Secondary benefits include potential antiviral properties, antioxidative effects that contribute to tissue protection and healing, and the ability to elevate epidermal growth factor (EGF), promoting mucosal integrity and repair. Clinical trials consistently show statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements over controls, with benefits in RAS often observed within 5 days of treatment initiation.
How it works
The primary active compound in licorice, glycyrrhizin, is metabolized to glycyrrhetic acid, which inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2). This inhibition leads to corticosteroid-like anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine production and inhibiting inflammatory enzymes. Its antimicrobial actions stem from direct inhibition of bacterial growth and biofilm formation. The antioxidant properties of licorice components help reduce oxidative stress in tissues. Additionally, certain compounds in licorice may elevate epidermal growth factor (EGF), thereby enhancing mucosal repair and integrity. The absorption of glycyrrhizin and its conversion to active metabolites are facilitated by intestinal microflora.
Side effects
Licorice root glycerite is generally considered safe when used topically or in moderate oral doses for short durations. For topical use, common side effects are rare. However, systemic oral use, especially at high doses or for prolonged periods, can lead to mineralocorticoid-like effects due to 11β-HSD2 inhibition. These effects include hypertension (high blood pressure), hypokalemia (low potassium levels), and edema (fluid retention), which are the most common adverse reactions associated with systemic use (>5%). Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Rare but severe side effects (<1%) such as severe hypertension and electrolyte imbalance can occur with chronic high-dose use. Licorice can interact with several medications, requiring caution with antihypertensives, diuretics, corticosteroids, and any drugs affecting potassium levels. Contraindications for systemic use include pre-existing hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, and pregnancy (due to potential hormonal effects). Special populations, such as the elderly and individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, may exhibit increased sensitivity to its effects.
Dosage
For topical oral use, such as in cases of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), licorice glycerite extracts containing 5% licorice have been effectively used. Clinical trials recommend applying this concentration 4 times daily for 5 days during active ulcer episodes. For systemic oral dosing, recommendations vary, but it is crucial to avoid chronic high doses, specifically those exceeding 100 mg of glycyrrhizin per day, as these are strongly associated with adverse effects. Consistent dosing is important during symptomatic periods. The glycerite form is believed to enhance mucosal contact and absorption. While no specific cofactors are required for its efficacy, monitoring potassium levels is advisable, particularly with systemic use, to mitigate the risk of hypokalemia.
FAQs
Is licorice glycerite safe for daily use?
Topical, short-term use is generally safe. However, chronic systemic use requires caution due to potential mineralocorticoid effects like hypertension and hypokalemia.
How soon will I see results?
For oral ulcers, improvements are typically observed within 5 days of initiating treatment, as shown in clinical trials.
Can licorice glycerite be used for other conditions?
While evidence is strongest for oral ulcers, it may be beneficial for other oral health issues and mild inflammatory conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Does it interact with medications?
Yes, it can interact with medications, especially those affecting blood pressure (antihypertensives) and electrolytes (diuretics), and corticosteroids. Consult a healthcare professional.
Is it effective as a standalone treatment?
In clinical trials for oral ulcers, licorice glycerite has shown superiority over placebo or standard treatments, indicating its effectiveness, often used adjunctively.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10648065/ – This narrative review by AlDehlawi (2023) summarizes the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects of licorice root extracts, highlighting their potential benefits in various oral diseases. It provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms but lacks specific clinical trial data synthesis.
- https://ijms.sums.ac.ir/article_49057.html – Dorsareh et al. (2023) conducted a systematic review of RCTs involving 314 subjects with recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS). The review found that licorice glycerite significantly reduced RAS pain, ulcer size, and healing time compared to controls, demonstrating dose-dependent effects despite moderate heterogeneity among studies.
- https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/jmf.2019.4459?doi=10.1089%2Fjmf.2019.4459 – Fiore et al. (2020) reviewed the pharmacology of glycyrrhizin, explaining how its metabolite inhibits 11β-HSD2, leading to corticosteroid-like effects. This review outlines both the therapeutic benefits and potential risks associated with licorice, focusing on its biochemical mechanisms rather than clinical efficacy.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8703329/ – Wahab et al. (2021) provided a comprehensive review confirming the effectiveness of licorice root extracts in respiratory, liver, and oral diseases. The review highlights its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, though it primarily relies on preclinical and observational clinical data.