カンゾウ

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 そして glabridin, isoflavonoids, chalcones, and polysaccharides. These constituents confer a wide spectrum of physiological activities.

2. 製品の供給元、化学的性質および主な仕様

• 植物由来: Dried root and rhizome of カンゾウ L. (Family: Fabaceae).

• Primary Bioactive: Glycyrrhizin (Glycyrrhizic Acid)

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

• 分子式（MF）： C₄₂H₆₂O₁₆ (Glycyrrhizic Acid)

• 分子量（MW）： 822.93 g/mol (Glycyrrhizic Acid)

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

• 主な化学的性質: 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:

• 標準化: 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.

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

• 純度と安全性: 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.

• バイオアベイラビリティ: 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.

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

• 薬物相互作用: Potentiates corticosteroids, interacts with diuretics (potassium loss), antihypertensives, digoxin (hypokalemia risk). Consult healthcare provider.

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

• 品質は最優先です: 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年の専門知識 in bioactive phytochemistry, we specialize in the extraction, isolation, purification, and application of nature’s potent molecules.

• コアコンピテンシー: Natural Plant Extracts, Cosmetic Actives, Nutraceutical & Pharmaceutical Ingredients, Natural Colors & Sweeteners, Dietary Supplements, Food & Beverage Additives.

• 科学的力（研究開発障壁）: 戦略的提携 5つのトップ大学 establish Joint Research Labs. Our innovation is protected by 20以上の独自特許 and leveraged through a 世界的にユニークな化合物ライブラリ.

• 製造の卓越性： 搭載 cutting-edge analytical instrumentation 含む HPLC-DAD/ELSD/CAD, UPLC-QTOF-MS, GC-MS, and 600MHz NMR. This enables 20%+の業界標準を超える純度基準 and guarantees batch-to-batch consistency.

• グローバルリーチ: Our supply network seamlessly serves multinational pharmaceutical corporations, premier research institutions, and manufacturers across 80+ countries in Asia, Europe, and the Americas, delivering カスタマイズされた植物成分ソリューション.

Product Origin & Advantages:
Shaanxi Zhonghong utilizes premium, sustainably sourced カンゾウ 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).

• バイオアベイラビリティの向上： Advanced delivery formats (subject to specific product).

• Unmatched Consistency: Pharmaceutical-grade quality control.

• トレーサビリティとコンプライアンス: 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.

使用ガイドライン:

• 栄養補助食品: Follow product-specific labeling, adhering to glycyrrhizin limits. DGL preferred for GI support.

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

• 食品・飲料: Use licorice extract (Glycyrrhizin) as a natural sweetener/flavor; comply with regional usage levels.

• 医薬品中間体: 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. 調達と認証: Rigorous qualification of raw カンゾウ roots (Botanical ID: Macroscopy, Microscopy, DNA Barcoding – rbcL, matK).

2. 前処理: 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. 高度な浄化： 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. 濃縮と乾燥： Spray Drying (for powders) or Vacuum Drying. Particle Size Optimization.

8. ブレンドと標準化： Precise adjustment to meet target specifications (HPLC-controlled).

Application Spectrum:

• 栄養補助食品および栄養補助食品: Adrenal support, respiratory health formulas, liver detox blends, DGL for GI comfort.

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

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

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

• 口腔ケア： 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 経由 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. 重金属 (As, Cd, Pb, Hg) are analyzed by ICP-MS, adhering to stringent pharmacopeial limits. 微生物学的安全性 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 および 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:

• 一次包装: Food-grade polyethylene bags with aluminum foil liner (1kg, 5kg, 25kg), or HDPE drums. Nitrogen flushed for oxidizable compounds (e.g., flavonoids).

• 二次包装: Sturdy cardboard cartons.

• ストレージ： Cool (<25°C), dry conditions, protected from light.

• 貯蔵寿命： Typically 24 months from production date (batch-specific).

• グローバルロジスティクス： 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:

• メカニズム: 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.

• 革新： 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.

• 課題: 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)?
   答え: 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?
   答え: 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?
   答え: 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?
   答え: 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.

購入およびサンプルの請求先:
Experience the Shaanxi Zhonghong difference in premium Glycyrrhiza Glabra extracts. Request your complimentary sample today!

• 接触： 廖道海さん

• メールアドレス: liaodaohai@gmail.com

• Webサイト： www.aiherba.com

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

結論
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.

参考文献:

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. 民族薬理学ジャーナル, 99(3), 317-324.

4. Nazari, S., Rameshrad, M., & Hosseinzadeh, H. (2017). Toxicological effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice): a review. 植物療法研究, 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. 農業および食品化学ジャーナル, 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).