Licorice Root Extract

Licorice root extract contains glycyrrhizin, which inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme to regulate cortisol levels and support adrenal function. The extract's polysaccharides and flavonoids provide anti-inflammatory effects for digestive health and immune support.

Origin & History

Native to Southern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Licorice Root Extract is sourced from plants native to diverse terrains, from Asian highlands to South American valleys. Root preparations have been central to traditional medicine systems including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and indigenous healing practices for thousands of years.

Historical & Cultural Context

Licorice Root Extract has a rich heritage rooted in traditional wellness practices. Originating from Native to Southern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Traditionally valued for its ability to support adrenal and stress resilience by regulating cortisol levels with glycyrrhizin, aiding adrenal recovery and reducing fatigue.

Health Benefits

Supports adrenal and stress resilience by regulating cortisol levels with glycyrrhizin, aiding adrenal recovery and reducing fatigue; Promotes digestive health by soothing the gut lining and reducing acid reflux, ulcers, and inflammation with demulcent polysaccharides; Strengthens immune function through flavonoids and saponins with antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal activity; Enhances respiratory health by acting as an expectorant to clear mucus and soothe the throat; Balances hormonal health by supporting estrogen metabolism and aiding in PMS, menopause, and testosterone regulation

How It Works

Glycyrrhizin inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, preventing cortisol breakdown and enhancing mineralocorticoid activity. The compound also blocks nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways, reducing inflammatory cytokine production. Demulcent polysaccharides form protective mucilage layers on gastric mucosa, while liquiritin and isoliquiritin modulate prostaglandin synthesis.

Scientific Research

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153591; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0753332218321176; https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.590690/full References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28833680; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10675182; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34739794

Clinical Summary

A 2019 randomized controlled trial (n=120) showed 600mg daily reduced perceived stress scores by 23% over 8 weeks. Multiple small studies (n=20-60) demonstrate gastric ulcer healing rates of 60-80% with 760mg deglycyrrhizinated licorice extract daily. Adrenal fatigue studies show modest cortisol regulation improvements, though larger trials are needed. Evidence is strongest for digestive applications, moderate for stress support.

Nutritional Profile

Rich in glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, glabridin, polysaccharides, saponins, coumarins, potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins Detailed compositional analysis of Licorice Root Extract shows the presence of essential micronutrients including B-vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin), fat-soluble vitamins, and a mineral profile including potassium, phosphorus, and trace elements. The total dietary fiber fraction includes both soluble and insoluble components contributing to satiety and gut health.

Preparation & Dosage

250–500mg standardized extract daily; prolonged high doses should be avoided due to potential cortisol retention For Licorice Root Extract, recommended preparation involves thorough cleaning and appropriate processing for the intended use. Consumption can range from fresh or minimally processed forms to dried, powdered, or extracted preparations. As with all botanicals, start with modest servings and adjust based on individual response. Shelf life is optimized when stored in airtight containers in cool, dark conditions.

Synergy & Pairings

Hermetica Synergy Stack (Formulation Heuristic)
Role: Foundational root base (ritual + resilience)
Intention: Hormones & Reproductive | Energy & Metabolism
Primary Pairings: Adaptogenic Herb Tonic; Marshmallow Root; Echinacea; Hyaluronic Acid
Notes (from original entry): Pairs with ashwagandha, rhodiola, and cordyceps for enhanced stress adaptation; slippery elm, marshmallow root, and chamomile for gut healing; echinacea, elderberry, and andrographis for immune defense; aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide for skin brightening and pigmentation correction
Evidence: see study_urls / reference_urls

Safety & Interactions

Glycyrrhizin can cause pseudoaldosteronism with prolonged use, leading to hypertension, hypokalemia, and fluid retention above 100mg daily. Contraindicated with heart conditions, kidney disease, and pregnancy due to increased miscarriage risk. Interacts with warfarin, digoxin, and blood pressure medications by affecting potassium levels. Deglycyrrhizinated forms reduce but don't eliminate these risks.