Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza Glabra: Nature’s Golden Root Unveiled by Shaanxi Zhonghong

1. What is Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice Root)?
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, is a perennial herb native to Southern Europe and parts of Asia. For millennia, its distinctive sweet flavor and potent bioactive compounds have secured its place in traditional medicine systems (Ayurveda, TCM) and modern phytopharmaceutical applications. Its primary value lies in a complex matrix of phytochemicals, most notably the triterpenoid saponin glycyrrhizin (or glycyrrhizic acid), alongside flavonoids like liquiritin and glabridin, isoflavonoids, chalcones, and polysaccharides. These constituents confer a wide spectrum of physiological activities.

2. Product Source, Chemical Identity & Key Specifications

• Botanical Source: Dried root and rhizome of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. (Family: Fabaceae).

• Primary Bioactive: Glycyrrhizin (Glycyrrhizic Acid)

• CAS Number: 1405-86-3 (Glycyrrhizic Acid)

• Molecular Formula (MF): C₄₂H₆₂O₁₆ (Glycyrrhizic Acid)

• Molecular Weight (MW): 822.93 g/mol (Glycyrrhizic Acid)

• EINECS: 215-785-7 (Glycyrrhizic Acid)

• Key Chemical Properties: Glycyrrhizin is a water-soluble, intensely sweet glycoside (approx. 50x sweeter than sucrose). It forms water-soluble ammonium or mono-ammonium salts. Flavonoids contribute to antioxidant capacity. Stability is influenced by pH, heat, and light.

3. Identifying the “Best” Glycyrrhiza Glabra Extract: A Multifaceted Analysis
Determining the “best” extract hinges on the intended application and required specifications. Key differentiators include:

• Standardization: Premium extracts are standardized to specific bioactive markers.

  • Glycyrrhizin Content: Common standardizations: 10%, 20%, 40%, 80%, 95%+. Higher purity (>95%) is critical for pharmaceutical research.

  • Glabridin Content: Standardized extracts (e.g., 10%, 40%, 90%+) are prized in cosmeceuticals for skin brightening.

• Composition Profile: Beyond single markers, full-spectrum or selectively enriched extracts (e.g., high in flavonoids, deglycyrrhizinated licorice – DGL) offer distinct benefits.

• Origin & Cultivation: Sustainable cultivation practices (organic, wild-crafted) in optimal regions (e.g., Xinjiang, China; specific Mediterranean areas) impact phytochemical profiles. Traceability is paramount.

• Purity & Safety: Rigorous testing for contaminants (heavy metals, pesticides, microbes – see COA below) exceeding pharmacopeial standards (USP, EP, CP) defines quality. Residual solvents (if used in extraction) must be minimal.

• Extraction & Purification Technology: Advanced techniques (e.g., Shaanxi Zhonghong’s proprietary chromatography) ensure higher purity, consistency, and preservation of delicate actives compared to crude solvent extraction.

• Bioavailability: Formulations enhancing bioavailability (e.g., phospholipid complexes, nanoparticles) represent cutting-edge quality.

Health Benefits & Usage (Based on Traditional Use & Modern Research):

• Adrenal Support & Stress Response: Modulates cortisol metabolism, supporting HPA axis function during stress (Traditional Use; Mechanistic Studies).

• Respiratory Health: Soothes irritated mucous membranes, exhibits expectorant properties (Traditional Use; EFSA Article 13.1 – “Supports respiratory health”).

• Digestive Wellness: DGL extracts specifically support gastric mucosal integrity and comfort (Clinical Studies; Traditional Use for gastric discomfort).

• Skin Health (Topical/Internal): Glabridin inhibits tyrosinase, reducing hyperpigmentation. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant flavonoids support skin barrier function and combat oxidative stress (In Vitro/In Vivo Studies; Cosmeceutical Applications).

• Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory Activity: Flavonoids and glycyrrhizin derivatives scavenge free radicals and modulate inflammatory pathways (NF-kB, COX/LOX) (In Vitro/In Vivo Studies).

• Hepatic Protection: Exhibits hepatoprotective effects in models, potentially via antioxidant and anti-fibrotic mechanisms (Preclinical Studies).

Typical Daily Intake & Dosage:

• Crude Root: 5-15g dried root/day (decoction).

• Standardized Extract (e.g., 20% Glycyrrhizin): 200-600 mg/day. Crucially, glycyrrhizin intake should not exceed 100 mg/day for most adults to avoid potential side effects.

• DGL Extract: Dosages vary (e.g., 380-760 mg chewable tablets before meals).

• Glabridin (Cosmeceutical): Topical formulations typically use 0.1-0.5%.

Critical Considerations & Side Effects:

• Glycyrrhizin Sensitivity: Excessive or prolonged intake (>100mg glycyrrhizin/day for weeks) can cause pseudoaldosteronism: hypertension, hypokalemia, edema, muscle weakness. Monitor potassium.

• Contraindications: Hypertension, hypokalemia, kidney/hepatic disease, heart failure, pregnancy/lactation (avoid high glycyrrhizin). Hormone-sensitive conditions (theoretical concern).

• Drug Interactions: Potentiates corticosteroids, interacts with diuretics (potassium loss), antihypertensives, digoxin (hypokalemia risk). Consult healthcare provider.

• DGL: Preferred for GI applications where glycyrrhizin effects are undesirable.

• Quality is Paramount: Source only from reputable suppliers (like Shaanxi Zhonghong) providing full COAs to ensure safety (contaminants) and potency.

4. Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd.: Pioneering Plant Science
Shaanxi Zhonghong is a vertically integrated high-tech enterprise dedicated to the research, development, advanced manufacturing, and global distribution of premium plant-derived compounds. Leveraging 28 years of expertise in bioactive phytochemistry, we specialize in the extraction, isolation, purification, and application of nature’s potent molecules.

• Core Competencies: Natural Plant Extracts, Cosmetic Actives, Nutraceutical & Pharmaceutical Ingredients, Natural Colors & Sweeteners, Dietary Supplements, Food & Beverage Additives.

• Scientific Prowess (R&D Barrier): Strategic collaborations with 5 leading universities establish Joint Research Labs. Our innovation is protected by 20+ proprietary patents and leveraged through a globally unique compound library.

• Manufacturing Excellence: Equipped with cutting-edge analytical instrumentation including HPLC-DAD/ELSD/CAD, UPLC-QTOF-MS, GC-MS, and 600MHz NMR. This enables purity standards exceeding industry norms by 20%+ and guarantees batch-to-batch consistency.

• Global Reach: Our supply network seamlessly serves multinational pharmaceutical corporations, premier research institutions, and manufacturers across 80+ countries in Asia, Europe, and the Americas, delivering customized botanical ingredient solutions.

Product Origin & Advantages:
Shaanxi Zhonghong utilizes premium, sustainably sourced Glycyrrhiza glabra raw material, primarily from optimal growing regions like Xinjiang, China. Our vertically controlled process, from raw material qualification through advanced purification, guarantees:

• Superior Bioactive Concentration: Targeted standardization (Glycyrrhizin, Glabridin).

• Exceptional Purity & Safety: Rigorous contaminant control (See COA).

• Enhanced Bioavailability: Advanced delivery formats (subject to specific product).

• Unmatched Consistency: Pharmaceutical-grade quality control.

• Traceability & Compliance: Full documentation meeting global regulatory standards (FDA-GMP, ISO, Kosher, Halal).

Health Benefits (Reiterated with Zhonghong Context):
Utilizing our high-purity, standardized Glycyrrhiza Glabra extracts ensures optimal delivery of its scientifically recognized benefits: robust antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support, promotion of respiratory and digestive wellness, adrenal function modulation, and significant skin health advantages (especially with our high-Glabridin variants), all derived from nature and validated by advanced science.

Usage Guidelines:

• Dietary Supplements: Follow product-specific labeling, adhering to glycyrrhizin limits. DGL preferred for GI support.

• Cosmetics: Incorporate Glabridin-rich extracts (0.1-0.5%) into serums, creams, lotions for brightening/anti-aging.

• Food & Beverage: Use licorice extract (Glycyrrhizin) as a natural sweetener/flavor; comply with regional usage levels.

• Pharmaceutical Intermediates: Utilize high-purity (>95%) Glycyrrhizin or isolated flavonoids as API starting materials.

Product Specification & Certificate of Analysis (COA) Summary:

Note: Specifications may vary based on specific product grade (e.g., 20% vs 95% Glycyrrhizin) and customer requirements. Full COA provided per batch.

Advanced Production Workflow:

1. Sourcing & Authentication: Rigorous qualification of raw Glycyrrhiza glabra roots (Botanical ID: Macroscopy, Microscopy, DNA Barcoding – rbcL, matK).

2. Pre-processing: Washing, cutting, drying (Controlled low temperature).

3. Primary Extraction: Optimized solvent extraction (e.g., Ethanol/Water) under controlled T, P, time.

4. Filtration & Concentration: Removal of insolubles; gentle solvent recovery (Vacuum Evaporation).

5. Advanced Purification: Core Technology: Multi-stage chromatographic separation (e.g., Macroporous Resin Adsorption, Preparative HPLC) for target-specific enrichment (Glycyrrhizin, Glabridin). Solvent/Salt removal.

6. Isolation/Crystallization (High Purity): For API-grade Glycyrrhizin (≥95%).

7. Concentration & Drying: Spray Drying (for powders) or Vacuum Drying. Particle Size Optimization.

8. Blending & Standardization: Precise adjustment to meet target specifications (HPLC-controlled).

Application Spectrum:

• Nutraceuticals & Dietary Supplements: Adrenal support, respiratory health formulas, liver detox blends, DGL for GI comfort.

• Pharmaceuticals: Cough syrups/lozenges, gastroprotective agents, potential API for anti-inflammatory/antiviral drugs (Research).

• Cosmeceuticals: Skin brightening/whitening serums/creams (Glabridin), anti-aging formulations, anti-inflammatory/acne products.

• Functional Food & Beverage: Natural sweetener/flavor (Glycyrrhizin), functional teas, health drinks.

• Oral Care: Toothpaste/mouthwash (anti-plaque, flavor).

Stringent Quality Control (QC):
Shaanxi Zhonghong’s QC system is built on cGMP, ISO 9001:2015, and ISO 22000 principles, ensuring pharmaceutical-grade standards. Identity testing (HPTLC, FTIR, Microscopy) precedes every batch. Potency is guaranteed via validated HPLC-UV/MS methods for Glycyrrhizin, Glabridin, and key flavonoids, calibrated against certified reference standards (USP, Ph.Eur.). Purity is meticulously safeguarded: Residual solvents are quantified by GC-MS/FID per ICH Q3C limits. Heavy metals (As, Cd, Pb, Hg) are analyzed by ICP-MS, adhering to stringent pharmacopeial limits. Microbiological safety is assured through comprehensive testing (Total Aerobic Count, Yeast/Mold, specified pathogens – E. coli, Salmonella, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa) per USP methodologies. Pesticide residue analysis employs sensitive GC-MS/MS & LC-MS/MS techniques, targeting over 300 compounds and complying with major global regulations (EU, USP). Stability studies (ICH Q1A) under accelerated and long-term conditions define shelf life. Comprehensive documentation ensures full traceability from raw material to finished product release.

Packaging & Logistics:

• Primary Packaging: Food-grade polyethylene bags with aluminum foil liner (1kg, 5kg, 25kg), or HDPE drums. Nitrogen flushed for oxidizable compounds (e.g., flavonoids).

• Secondary Packaging: Sturdy cardboard cartons.

• Storage: Cool (<25°C), dry conditions, protected from light.

• Shelf Life: Typically 24 months from production date (batch-specific).

• Global Logistics: Efficient shipping via air freight, sea freight (FCL/LCL), or express courier (DHL, FedEx). Expertise in customs clearance and regulatory documentation (Certificate of Analysis, Certificate of Origin, MSDS, Phytosanitary Certificate).

Health Efficacy Mechanisms & Research Frontiers:

• Mechanisms: Glycyrrhizin modulates 11β-HSD enzymes (cortisol metabolism), NF-κB signaling (inflammation), exhibits direct antiviral effects (enveloped viruses). Glabridin inhibits tyrosinase/MITF pathway (melanogenesis) and ROS generation. Flavonoids (liquiritigenin) act as potent antioxidants and estrogen receptor β agonists.

• Innovation: Zhonghong focuses on enhancing bioavailability (nanocarriers, phospholipid complexes), isolating novel minor constituents, developing high-purity single compounds (≥98%) for drug discovery, and creating synergistic multi-botanical blends.

• Challenges: Balancing glycyrrhizin’s benefits with safety profile (driving DGL/isolated flavonoid research), scaling complex purifications cost-effectively, demonstrating clinical efficacy for newer indications (e.g., metabolic syndrome, neuroprotection), and fully elucidating complex multi-target mechanisms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

1. Q: What’s the difference between Glycyrrhiza Glabra and DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice)?
   A: DGL is processed to remove most glycyrrhizin (>95%), retaining other beneficial flavonoids. It’s primarily used for digestive support without glycyrrhizin’s potential side effects.

2. Q: Is licorice root extract safe for long-term use?
   A: High-glycyrrhizin extracts (>100mg glycyrrhizin/day) are NOT recommended for long-term continuous use (max 4-6 weeks) due to pseudoaldosteronism risk. DGL or low-dose, short-term use under guidance is safer. Monitor potassium.

3. Q: Can licorice interact with medications?
   A: Yes, significantly. It can interact with blood pressure meds, diuretics (water pills), corticosteroids, digoxin, and hormone therapies. Always consult your doctor before use.

4. Q: What is Glabridin used for?
   A: Primarily in cosmeceuticals for its potent skin-brightening (tyrosinase inhibition) and anti-aging (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory) effects.

5. Q: Does Zhonghong offer organic or non-GMO licorice extract?
   A: Yes, we offer certified organic and non-GMO Glycyrrhiza Glabra extracts. Specify your requirement when inquiring.

6. Q: Can you customize Glycyrrhiza Glabra extracts?
   A: Absolutely. We specialize in custom standardization (Glycyrrhizin %, Glabridin %), enrichment profiles (specific flavonoids), particle size, and solvent specifications tailored to your application needs.

Where to Buy & Request Samples:
Experience the Shaanxi Zhonghong difference in premium Glycyrrhiza Glabra extracts. Request your complimentary sample today!

• Contact: Mr. Liao Daohai

• Email: liaodaohai@gmail.com

• Website: www.aiherba.com

• Enquiry Types: Product Specifications (COA, MSDS), Pricing (FOB/CIF), Customization Options, Sample Requests, Regulatory Support Documentation.

Conclusion
Glycyrrhiza Glabra remains a cornerstone botanical, its value continually unlocked by advancing science and extraction technology. Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd. stands at the forefront of this field. Leveraging deep phytochemical expertise, patented purification processes, and uncompromising quality control exceeding international pharmacopeias, we deliver Glycyrrhiza Glabra extracts of unparalleled purity, consistency, and efficacy. From standardized actives for nutraceuticals and potent cosmeceutical glabridin to research-grade phytochemicals, our solutions empower global innovation. Partner with Zhonghong for reliable, high-performance licorice root ingredients backed by 28 years of excellence and cutting-edge science. Contact us for samples and technical data sheets.

References:

1. European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) Monograph 01/2008:0409 (Licorice Root/Liquid Extract).

2. US Pharmacopeia (USP) – General Chapters: <561> Articles of Botanical Origin, <2023> Identification of Articles of Botanical Origin by HPTLC, <561> Residue Pesticide Analysis.

3. Fiore, C., Eisenhut, M., Ragazzi, E., Zanchin, G., & Armanini, D. (2005). A history of the therapeutic use of liquorice in Europe. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 99(3), 317-324.

4. Nazari, S., Rameshrad, M., & Hosseinzadeh, H. (2017). Toxicological effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice): a review. Phytotherapy Research, 31(11), 1635-1650.

5. Yu, X. Q., Xue, C. C., Zhou, Z. W., Li, C. G., & Du, Y. M. (2008). In vitro and in vivo neuroprotective effect and mechanisms of glabridin, a major bioactive flavonoid from radix glycyrrhizae. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 56(18), 8385-8391.

6. ICH Guidelines: Q3C (R8) Impurities: Residual Solvents, Q1A(R2) Stability Testing.

7. EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) Compendium of Botanicals. Glycyrrhiza species.

8. German Commission E Monographs: Licorice Root / Licorice Fluid Extract. Bundesanzeiger (BAnz) No. 85 (May 5, 1988). (Note: Provides traditional usage context and cautions).

9. Shaanxi Zhonghong Internal Technical Dossiers & Analytical Method Validations. (Note: Represents proprietary quality data).