Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Sparse (59 studies) · ★★☆☆☆
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice, is a versatile medicinal plant utilized for its diverse therapeutic potential. The roots, leaves, rhizomes, and stems serve as primary sources for bioactive compounds such as glycyrrhizin, glabridin, glycyrrhizic acid, and various flavonoids. Through the use of ethanol extracts, researchers have identified significant antioxidant, antiviral, anticancer, and antimicrobial activities within the plant. These chemical properties make it a subject of interest for addressing complex health conditions including COVID-19, hypertension, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Consequently, studying these preparations provides valuable insights into modern pharmacological applications.
- Synonyms
- Liquiritia Officinalis · Liquiritia Officinarum · 26 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Root · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Glycyrrhiza glabra is a versatile plant known by a variety of diverse names across different regions. In various contexts, it is frequently referred to by the common names Alcacuz or Alcazuz. Some traditional sources even use the term Drop to identify this specific species. Furthermore, it holds a significant place in German-speaking areas under the titles Echtes Suessholz and Echtes Süßholz. Understanding these multiple identities helps botanists and herbalists recognize the plant regardless of the terminology used.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Glycyrrhiza glabra is a complex botanical subject that is often identified through various taxonomic synonyms. Within its extensive botanical history, it has been categorized under names such as Glycyrrhiza alalensis and Glycyrrhiza alaschanica. Researchers also recognize the plant under the designations of Glycyrrhiza brachycarpa and the subspecies Glycyrrhiza glabra subsp. glandulifera. Furthermore, the variety Glycyrrhiza glabra var. asperula represents another historical classification linked to this species. Understanding these shifting relationships is essential for accurately documenting the diverse lineage of this plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Glycyrrhiza glabra is a remarkable organism that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive group, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant further belongs to the order Fabales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. Moving down the taxonomic hierarchy, it is a prominent member of the family Fabaceae. Finally, this species is identified by its unique genus, Glycyrrhiza.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Glycyrrhiza |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Glycyrrhiza glabra is a versatile plant with a wide geographical footprint spanning multiple continents. In Africa, its presence is notable across Northern regions such as Algeria, Egypt, and Libya. The species also reaches into Southern Africa, specifically within the Cape Provinces. Beyond the African continent, it thrives in the temperate zones of Asia. This distribution includes the Arabian Peninsula, with significant populations found in Saudi Arabia.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Glycyrrhiza glabra is a self-supporting herb that maintains a compact presence in its natural habitat. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1 meter, though it can grow as short as 0.5 meters. Its sturdy growth form allows it to stand upright without the need for external support. These dimensions make it a manageable and distinct species within its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice, is a high-value medicinal plant recognized for its wide range of potent biological activities. Research highlights its strong antioxidant properties, which help protect cells and blood vessels from oxidative stress. The plant also exhibits significant antiviral capabilities, showing promise in fighting various viruses, including herpes simplex and coronaviruses. Furthermore, its diverse phytochemical profile contributes to effective anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. Finally, Glycyrrhiza glabra serves as a powerful antimicrobial and antifungal agent, capable of inhibiting both periodontal pathogens and drug-resistant yeast such as Candida albicans.
Compounds
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice, is a medicinal plant characterized by a rich profile of bioactive secondary metabolites. This species contains various flavonoids, including the potent antioxidant and antibacterial component glabridin. The plant also contains glycyrrhizin, also referred to as glycyrrhizic acid, which is frequently studied for its pharmacological effects and potential toxicity. Furthermore, the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain liquiritigenin, a compound noted for its estrogenic and antidiabetic properties. Together, these diverse chemical constituents contribute to the plant's extensive use in traditional and modern medicine.
Conditions
Glycyrrhiza glabra serves as a potent medicinal resource that effectively treats inflammation through its various bioactive components. Its primary constituent, glycyrrhizic acid, has demonstrated a significant ability to treat COVID-19 by inhibiting the replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The plant also provides anti-inflammatory benefits that help manage immune responses and mitigate cellular damage. Furthermore, its antioxidant properties allow it to treat oxidative stress, thereby protecting against age-related physiological decline. However, excessive consumption of the plant must be monitored, as it has been linked to the development of hypertension in certain clinical cases.
Preparations
Glycyrrhiza glabra is prepared as an extract in various studies to evaluate its anti-aging, anti-ulcerogenic, and antimicrobial properties. Researchers frequently utilize Glycyrrhiza glabra as an ethanol extract or ethanolic extract to investigate its effects on colon cancer cells and Vitamin B12 bioavailability. In several investigations, Glycyrrhiza glabra is prepared as an ethanolic extract to test its potential for inhibiting acne-inducing bacteria. The plant is also prepared as bark to be crushed into a fine powder for antimicrobial and antifungal efficacy testing. These diverse preparation methods, including the use of various extracts, highlight the plant's widespread utility in medicinal research.
Parts used
Glycyrrhiza glabra is a versatile medicinal plant that offers numerous bioactive components derived from its various structural parts. Researchers frequently utilize the root and rhizome to extract valuable compounds like glycyrrhizic acid for pharmaceutical and sweetener applications. Beyond the underground structures, the leaves serve as a significant source of dihydrostilbenes and other phytochemicals used in immunological studies. Additionally, the stem provides a critical area for studying the plant's environmental interactions, such as the uptake of heavy metals. By utilizing the leaves, rhizomes, roots, and stems, scientists continue to uncover the immense therapeutic potential of this undershrub.