Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) A Unique Herbaceous Plant: Review of its Medicinal Uses

Abstract

Since the beginning of human civilization numerous plants have been used extensively as an essential medicinal source. The need for natural medications is steadily growing over time. One of the herbal plants that is most frequently used in foods, medicines, and extensive global study is licorice or sweetwood as Glycyrrhiza glabra belongs to family Fabaceae. It was used in traditional and complementary medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as allergies, liver toxicity, gastric ulcer, lung diseases, skin disorders, oral health issues such as tooth decay, and inflammation. The phytochemical constituents of licorice include various essential oils, sugars, inorganic salts, resins, amino acids, and nucleic acids. Licorice active substances such as triterpene, flavonoids, and saponins have been shown to exhibit biological activity. Licorice has been extensively researched in recent years to find its benefits, constituents and mechanism of action. This review summarizes the therapeutic and pharmacological benefits of licorice, as well as its applications in various health-related conditions along with its toxicity and maximum amounts of licorice consumption.