General Introduction:
Liquorice is a medicinal plant that is rich in triterpenoid saponins, particularly glycyrrhizin, which is responsible for its characteristic sweet taste and therapeutic properties.
It has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and hepatoprotective effects.
Synonyms of Liquorice (Triterpenoids):
Common name: Licorice, Sweet root
Scientific name: Glycyrrhiza glabra
Synonyms: Mulethi (Hindi)
Biological Source:
Obtained from the dried roots and stolons of Glycyrrhiza glabra.
Family:
Fabaceae
Composition:
Triterpenoid saponins:
Glycyrrhizin (or glycyrrhizic acid): The main bioactive compound.
Glycyrrhetic acid: Aglycone form of glycyrrhizin.
Flavonoids: Liquiritin, isoliquiritin, liquiritigenin.
Polysaccharides: Starch and gums.
Chemistry & Chemical Classes:
Chemical Class: Triterpenoid saponins.
Structure:
Glycyrrhizin is a glycoside of glycyrrhetic acid, with two glucuronic acid residues.
It is amphipathic, enabling its surfactant-like properties.
Solubility: Water-soluble due to glycosidic linkages.
Therapeutic Uses:
Anti-inflammatory: Glycyrrhizin inhibits enzymes involved in inflammation (e.g., COX and LOX pathways).
Hepatoprotective: Used in liver disorders such as hepatitis.
Expectorant: Helps in respiratory conditions like bronchitis and cough by loosening mucus.
Gastroprotective: Treats peptic ulcers by promoting mucus secretion and reducing acidity.
Anti-viral: Shows activity against viruses like hepatitis C and herpes.
Commercial Applications:
Used in herbal cough syrups and lozenges for its soothing effect on the throat.
Flavored teas and confectionery products due to its natural sweetness.
Extracts of glycyrrhizin are used in skin-lightening and anti-inflammatory cosmetic formulations.