Glycyrrhetinic Acid is a naturally occurring compound derived from the root of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra).
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is the aglycone (non-sugar component) of glycyrrhizin, the main active compound found in licorice.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has various biological activities and is considered to be one of the key pharmacologically active ingredients of licorice.
CAS Number: 471-53-4
Molecular Formula: C30H46O4
Molecular Weight: 470.69
EINECS Number: 207-444-6
Synonyms: enoxolone, 471-53-4, Glycyrrhetic acid, GLYCYRRHETINIC ACID, Uralenic acid, 18-beta-Glycyrrhetinic acid, 18beta-Glycyrrhetinic acid, Rhetinic Acid, Glycyrrhetin, Biosone, alpha-Glycyrrhetinic acid, 18|A-Glycyrrhetinic acid, Enoxolona, Enoxolonum, Arthrodont, Jintan, 3beta-Hydroxy-11-oxoolean-12-en-30-oic acid, 18-beta-Glycyrrhetic acid, 18 beta-Glycyrrhetintic Acid, CCRIS 3962, 18beta-Glycyrrhetic acid, EINECS 207-444-6, UNII-P540XA09DR, MFCD00003706, NSC 35347, NSC-35347, Glycyrrhetinate, 3-Glycyrrhetinic acid, BRN 2229654, P540XA09DR, DTXSID9020669, CHEBI:30853, 3-beta-Hydroxy-11-oxoolean-12-en-30-oic acid, Glycyrrhetinic acid [JAN], beta-Glycyrrhetinic acid, DTXCID50669, MLS000028748, CHEMBL230006, Enoxolone (INN), 4-10-00-03775 (Beilstein Handbook Reference), Olean-12-en-30-oic acid, 3beta-hydroxy-11-oxo-, Olean-12-en-30-oic acid, 3-beta-hydroxy-11-oxo-, (2S,4aS,6aR,6aS,6bR,8aR,10S,12aS,14bR)-10-hydroxy-2,4a,6a,6b,9,9,12a-heptamethyl-13-oxo-3,4,5,6,6a,7,8,8a,10,11,12,14b-dodecahydro-1H-picene-2-carboxylic acid, NCGC00017244-03, (3beta,20beta)-3-Hydroxy-11-oxo-olean-12-en-29-oic acid, Glyciram, SMR000058239, ENOXOLONE [INN], ENOXOLONE (MART.), ENOXOLONE [MART.], Glycyrrhetinic acid (JAN), ENOXOLONE (EP IMPURITY), ENOXOLONE [EP IMPURITY], ENOXOLONE (EP MONOGRAPH), ENOXOLONE [EP MONOGRAPH], (3beta,5beta,14beta)-3-Hydroxy-11-Oxoolean-12-En-29-Oic Acid, 3beta-Hydroxy-11-oxo-18beta,20beta-olean-12-en-29-oic acid, Enoxolonum [INN-Latin], Enoxolona [INN-Spanish], Acid, Rhetinic, Acid, Uralenic, GlycyrrhetinicAcid, 1449-05-4, Acid, Glycyrrhetic, Enoxolone [INN:BAN:DCF], CAS-471-53-4, 18b-Glycyrrhetinic acid, Acid, Glycyrrhetinic, SR-01000721867, (2S,4aS,6aS,6bR,8aR,10S,12aS,12bR,14bR)-10-hydroxy-2,4a,6a,6b,9,9,12a-heptamethyl-13-oxo-1,2,3,4,4a,5,6,6a,6b,7,8,8a,9,10,11,12,12a,12b,13,14b-icosahydropicene-2-carboxylic acid, Enoloxone, Hidermart, Enoxolone (Glycyrrhetinic acid), NSC-35350, 18|A-Glycyrrhetinic acid (Standard), Hidermart (TN), NCGC00181115-01, CBW, 18-Glycyrrhetinic acid, ENOXOLONE [MI], Enoxolone (Glycyrrhetin), Olean-12-en-29-oic acid, 3-hydroxy-11-oxo-, (3beta,20beta)-, Opera_ID_1048, ENOXOLONE [WHO-DD], SCHEMBL18540, MLS001146949, MLS002207101, Enoxolone, Glycyrrhetinic acid, (3beta)-3-hydroxy-11-oxoolean-12-en-30-oic acid, 18 beta -Glycyrrhetinic Acid, BX-1, GTPL11264, HY-N0180R, D03AX10, STX-352, CHEBI: 30853, MPDGHEJMBKOTSU-YKLVYJNSSA-N, 18beta-Glycyrrhetinic acid, 97%, HMS2233P23, HY-N0180, Tox21_110804, Tox21_112726, Tox21_200799, BDBM50233538, s2296, AKOS015960428, AKOS016036757, HMDB: 0011628, AC-1925, AC-8906, CCG-208506, CS-W020624, DB13089, GM-1658, KS-1262, LMPR0106150014, Enoxolone 100 microg/mL in Acetonitrile, Glycyrrhetin ;18beta Glycyrrhetinic acid, NCGC00017244-04, NCGC00017244-06, NCGC00017244-16, NCGC00017244-20, NCGC00142473-03, NCGC00258353-01, (5S,8S,15S,18S,1R,2R,10R,14R,20R)-18-hydroxy-1,2,5,8,15,19,19-heptamethyl-13-o xopentacyclo[12.8.0.0<2,11>.0<5,10>.0<15,20>]docos-11-ene-8-carboxylic acid, 107420-91-7, 1ST40366, G0149, NS00000590, 3beta-hydroxy-11-oxoolean-12-en-29-oic acid, C02283, D00156, S00284, Enoxolone (synonym: 18ss--Glycyrrhetinic acid), 18beta-Glycyrrhetinic acid, purum, >=97.0% (T), Q-201057, Q5948038, SR-01000721867-3, SR-01000721867-4, SR-01000721867-5, SR-01000721867-6, BRD-K96137854-001-17-1, (3beta,20beta)-3-Hydroxy-11-oxoolean-12-en-29-oic acid, 3ss-Hydroxy-11-oxo-18ss,20ss-olean-12-en-29-oic acid, Enoxolone, European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard, (2S,4aS,6aR,6aS,6bR,8aR,10S,12aS,14bR)-10-hydroxy-2,4a,6a,6b,9,9,12a-heptamethyl-13-oxo-3,4,5,6,6a,7,8,8a,10,11,12,14b-dodecahydro-1H-picene-2-carboxylicacid, 15301-63-0, Enoxolone; 18beta-Glycyrrhetinic acid; 3?-Hydroxy-11-oxo-18?,20?-olean-12-en-29-oic acid Enoxolone, 3β-Hydroxy-11-oxo-18β,20β-olean-12-en-29-oic acid;Aloe Vera, Freeze Dried Powder;18-β-Glycyrrhetinic acid, 98+%;18-beta-glycyrrheticacid;Olean-12-en-29-oic acid, 3-hydroxy-11-oxo-, (3b,20b)-;(20S)-3β-Hydroxy-11-oxo-5α-olean-12-en-29-oic acid;GLYCYRRHETINIC ACID, 18B-(P);Glycyrrhetinic acid ,98%
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has anti-inflammatory effects and can inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators.
It has been shown to possess some antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it useful in treating infections.
Glycyrrhetinic acid inhibits the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, which affects cortisol metabolism and can mimic the effects of aldosterone, leading to water and sodium retention in the body.
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, glycyrrhetinic acid is often used in skincare products for soothing skin irritation and reducing symptoms of conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Extracting from liquorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch, Gan Cao), glycyrrhetic acid also can be detected in other plants, such as Abrus cantoniensis Hance and Herba Abri fruticulosi.
As one of traditional Chinese medicines, liquorice has been applied clinically for a long period.
Due to its extensive usage, it plays an extremely important role in traditional Chinese medicine formula mainly as “guide” drug.
As is recorded in Shen Nong’s Herbal Classic and later in pharmaceutical monographs, liquorice is able to strengthen bones and muscles and enhance metabolism and detoxification.
Also, abnormal symptoms of the body and wound can be improved.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid, the most important and potent ingredient of liquorice, has been recorded in Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid originates from hydrolysis of glycyrrhizin, which has a therapeutic effect on disease.
Dating back to the 1930s, the chemical structure of glycyrrhetic acid was demonstrated.
Subsequently, the discovery of antiulcer activity promotes following research.
The ramification of glycyrrhetic acid, carbenoxolone sodium, has a therapeutic effect on ulcer.
In 2010, followed by the approval of raw materials, batches of tablets and capsules were approved in 2009, respectively.
In foreign countries, 18β-glycyrrhetic acid was studied for anti-inflammatory effect on arthritis, rheumatoid disease, and periodontitis in BioNetWorks.
The company applied for the patent of 18β-glycyrrhetic acid in 1999.
Also, after joining the leading worldwide market in 2006, phase III clinical trials would be carried out in 2007.
However, the progress was hindered in 2008. To detecting more indications, its carbenoxolone sodium was studied by other three companies: after conducting phase III clinical trials in the UK, the project of RB intending to improve nonspecific inflammatory bowel disease was given up in 1992.
York Pharma expected to make progress in psoriasis with gel or cream; however, the project has been in a standstill after phase II clinical trials was conducted from 2005 to 2009.
A pentacyclic triterpenoid that is olean-12-ene substituted by a hydroxy group at position 3, an oxo group at position 11 and a carboxy group at position 30.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid derivative of the beta-amyrin type obtained from the hydrolysis of glycyrrhizic acid, which was obtained from the herb liquorice.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has a sweet taste, so it is used in flavoring to mask the bitter taste of drugs like aloe and quinine.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid may have some anti-inflammatory activities.
One of its metabolites is responsible for the blood pressure-increasing effect of liquorice.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid, a metabolite of glycyrrhetinic acid, inhibits the conversion of 'active' cortisol to 'inactive' cortisone in the kidneys.
This occurs via inhibition of the enzyme 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.
As a result, cortisol levels become high within the collecting duct of the kidney.
Cortisol has intrinsic mineralocorticoid properties (that is, it acts like aldosterone and increases sodium reabsorption) that work on ENaC channels in the collecting duct.
Hypertension develops due to this mechanism of sodium retention.
People often have high blood pressure with a low renin and low aldosterone blood level.
The increased amounts of cortisol binds to the unprotected, nonspecific mineralocorticoid receptors and induce sodium and fluid retention, hypokalaemia, high blood pressure, and inhibition of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.
Therefore, licorice should not be given to patients with a known history of hypertension in doses sufficient to inhibit 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.
In glycyrrhetinic acid, the functional group (R) is a hydroxyl group. Research in 2005 demonstrated that with a proper functional group a very effective glycyrrhetinic artificial sweetener can be obtained.
When R is an anionic NHCO(CH2)CO2K side chain, the sweetening effect is found to be 1200 times that of sugar (human sensory panel data).
A shorter or longer spacer reduces the sweetening effect.
One explanation is that the taste bud cell receptor has 1.3 nanometers (13 angstroms) available for docking with the sweetener molecule.
In addition, the sweetener molecule requires three proton donor positions, of which two reside at the extremities, to be able to interact efficiently with the receptor cavity.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is the chief sweet-tasting constituent of Glycyrrhiza glabra (liquorice) root.
Structurally, it is a saponin used as an emulsifier and gel-forming agent in foodstuffs and cosmetics.
Its aglycone is enoxolone.
After oral ingestion, Glycyrrhetinic Acid is hydrolysed to 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (enoxolone) by intestinal bacteria.
After absorption from the gut, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid is metabolised to 3β-monoglucuronyl-18β-glycyrrhetinic acid in the liver.
This metabolite circulates in the bloodstream.
Consequently, its oral bioavailability is poor.
Most of it is eliminated by bile and only a minor part (0.31–0.67%) by urine.
After oral ingestion of 600 mg of glycyrrhizin the metabolite appeared in urine after 1.5 to 14 hours.
Maximal concentrations (0.49 to 2.69 mg/L) were achieved after 1.5 to 39 hours and metabolite can be detected in the urine after 2 to 4 days.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is obtained as an extract from licorice root after maceration and boiling in water.
Licorice extract (glycyrrhizin) is sold in the United States as a liquid, paste, or spray-dried powder.
When in specified amounts, it is approved for use as a flavor and aroma in manufactured foods, beverages, candies, dietary supplements, and seasonings.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is 30 to 50 times as sweet as sucrose (table sugar).
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is extracted from the root of the licorice plant; Glycyrrhiza glabra.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is a triterpene glycoside with glycyrrhetinic acid that possesses a wide range of pharmacological and biological activities.
When extracted from the plant, it can be obtained in the form of ammonium glycyrrhizin and mono-ammonium glycyrrhizin.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has been developed in Japan and China as a hepatoprotective drug in cases of chronic hepatitis.
From January 2014, glycyrrhizic acid as part of the licorice extract was approved by the FDA as an existing food sweetener.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid was approved by Health Canada to be used in over-the-counter products but all the products are currently on the status canceled post marketed.10
Glycyrrhetinic Acid, another name for Glycyrrhizin, emerges as a coveted ingredient in the cosmetic industry.
This organic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit the skin.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is also great for boosting hydration, reducing hyperpigmentation, and brightening the skin.
Since Glycyrrhetinic Acid is derived from natural sources, it is safe for use and imparts a rich flavor to the formulations.
Overall, this ingredient is gentle yet potent and is revered by enthusiasts worldwide.
The chemical formula of Glycyrrhetinic Acid is C42H62O16.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is used widely in the skin care industry for its myriad benefits.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is primarily an anti-inflammatory ingredient that soothes skin irritation and redness.
This property makes it ideal for acne prone and sensitive skin. With its ability to inhibit tyrosinase activity, Glycyrrhetinic Acid aids in reducing dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone, promoting a more luminous complexion.
Furthermore, its antioxidant qualities help protect the skin against environmental stressors, preventing premature aging.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid leaves the skin brighter, clearer, and more radiant.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is derived from licorice root extract.
Initially, licorice roots are harvested and cleaned before undergoing extraction methods like solvent extraction or steam distillation.
These methods isolate the active compound, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, from the licorice root.
The purified acid is then further processed to ensure its stability and purity.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is a bioactive compound that’s the main active ingredient found in the licorice plant (_Glycyrrhiza glabra_).
While it’s most famously known for imparting licorice’s signature flavor, it’s also an important ingredient for maintaining healthy skin.
One of the most significant actions of glycyrrhetinic acid is the inhibition of 11β-HSD2, an enzyme responsible for converting active cortisol to its inactive form, cortisone.
By inhibiting this enzyme, glycyrrhetinic acid increases the levels of active cortisol in the body, which can have an impact on fluid retention and blood pressure regulation.
This is similar to the effect of aldosterone, a hormone that helps the body retain sodium and water, which can lead to sodium retention and increased blood pressure.
This mechanism is important in understanding why licorice and glycyrrhetinic acid can cause side effects like hypertension and electrolyte imbalances if consumed in excess.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid can suppress the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thus reducing inflammation.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid helps down-regulate several inflammatory pathways, including the NF-kB pathway, which plays a central role in immune responses.
It also inhibits the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins, both of which are mediators of inflammation.
These properties make it useful in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
Melting point: 292-295 °C(lit.)
alpha: 165 º (c=1, CHCl3,on dry ba)
Boiling point: 492.11°C (rough estimate)
Density: 0.9967 (rough estimate)
vapor pressure: 10-220Pa at 20-50℃
refractive index: 162 ° (C=1, MeOH)
storage temp.: 2-8°C
solubility: Practically insoluble in water, soluble in ethanol, sparingly soluble in methylene chloride.
pka: pKa 5.56±0.1 (Uncertain)
form: Crystalline Powder
color:White to off-white
optical activity: [α]22/D +170.0°, c = 1 in chloroform
Water Solubility: SOLUBLE IN ACETIC ACID
Merck: 14,3590
BRN: 2229654
LogP: 4.5 at 20℃
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is effective in the treatment of peptic ulcer and also has expectorant (antitussive) properties.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has some additional pharmacological properties with possible antiviral, antifungal, antiprotozoal, and antibacterial activities.[6][7][8][9]
Glycyrrhetinic Acid inhibits the enzymes (15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase and delta-13-prostaglandin) that metabolize the prostaglandins PGE-2 and PGF-2α to their respective, inactive 15-keto-13,14-dihydro metabolites.
This increases prostaglandins in the digestive system.
Prostaglandins inhibit gastric secretion, stimulate pancreatic secretion and mucous secretion in the intestines, and markedly increase intestinal motility.
They also cause cell proliferation in the stomach.
The effect on gastric acid secretion, and promotion of mucous secretion and cell proliferation shows why licorice has potential in treating peptic ulcers.
Licorice should not be taken during pregnancy, because PGF-2α stimulates activity of the uterus during pregnancy and can cause abortion.
The structure of glycyrrhetinic acid is similar to that of cortisone.
Both molecules are flat and similar at positions 3 and 11.
This might be the basis for licorice's anti-inflammatory action.
The most widely reported side effect of glycyrrhizin use via consumption of black liquorice is reduction of blood potassium levels, which can affect body fluid balance and function of nerves.
Chronic consumption of black licorice, even in moderate amounts, is associated with an increase in blood pressure, may cause irregular heart rhythm, and may have adverse interactions with prescription drugs.
In extreme cases, death can occur as a result of excess consumption.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid derivative of the beta-amyrin type obtained from the hydrolysis of glycyrrhizic acid, which was obtained from the herb liquorice. The substance has a sweet taste, so it is used in flavoring to mask the bitter taste of drugs like aloe and quinine.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid may have some anti-inflammatory activities.
One of its metabolites is responsible for the blood pressure-increasing effect of liquorice.
While glycyrrhetinic acid has beneficial effects, it must be used with caution.
Prolonged or excessive consumption of licorice can lead to serious side effects, such as hypertension, hypokalemia (low potassium levels), and fluid retention due to its effects on cortisol and aldosterone.
This can potentially lead to a condition called "licorice poisoning."
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has shown antiviral activity, particularly against herpes simplex virus (HSV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV).
Glycyrrhetinic Acid works by inhibiting viral replication, potentially interfering with the early stages of the virus’s life cycle.
This property has led to investigations into its potential as an adjunct in treating viral infections, especially those affecting the liver.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is also thought to possess antioxidant activity, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress.
This can contribute to its role in skin health and in preventing conditions related to oxidative damage, such as premature aging and skin damage.
Studies have suggested that glycyrrhetinic acid might have beneficial effects in managing chronic hepatitis C, due to its antiviral activity against the hepatitis C virus.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has been considered in some traditional and alternative treatment protocols for viral hepatitis.
Its ability to enhance cortisol’s action and reduce inflammation may benefit those with liver conditions, improving symptoms related to liver dysfunction.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is often used in skincare products, including creams, ointments, and lotions, for its ability to reduce skin irritation, redness, and swelling.
It is particularly beneficial in treating inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis.
Due to its antioxidant properties, Glycyrrhetinic Acid is sometimes included in anti-aging formulations.
It may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and protect against sun damage.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has been traditionally used for its expectorant properties, helping to ease symptoms of respiratory conditions like bronchitis and asthma.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid may aid in thinning mucus and easing coughing.
Due to its immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory effects, glycyrrhetinic acid has been used in managing allergic reactions, such as hay fever and allergic rhinitis.
It may reduce the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators.
Due to its beneficial effects on skin health, glycyrrhetinic acid is a popular ingredient in many cosmetic and dermatological products:
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is used to soothe irritated or inflamed skin, especially in conditions like acne or rosacea.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is sometimes used in formulations designed to lighten skin discolorations, such as dark spots or hyperpigmentation.
Some studies suggest that glycyrrhetinic acid may offer some protection against UV-induced skin damage due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is sometimes taken in supplement form, either as part of licorice extract or as a purified form.
However, because it can have significant effects on blood pressure and fluid balance, it should be used with caution, especially in those with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart conditions.
In some traditional practices, Glycyrrhetinic Acid has been used to treat peptic ulcers.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid can help protect the gastrointestinal mucosa and reduce inflammation, contributing to ulcer healing.
Uses:
The product may be used as a starting material to prepare 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid derivatives, which show anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is anti-irritant, anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, skin-lightening, and smoothing properties are attributed to this ingredient, which is also a carrier.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is the organic compound derived from glycyrrhizic acid or shredded licorice roots.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has not been applied in clinical treatment till now.
Meanwhile, the ramification has come into the market for the property of antiulcer.
However, with large doses and long-term usage, the drug gives rise to hypertension, sodium retention, and hypokalemia.
When renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system fails to function properly, liquorice-induced pseudoaldosteronism threatens human health .
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is also used in the Singaporean "Vetic" cream.
In the United States, it is found in PruClair, a "precription medical device" indicated for generic dermatoses.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is widely applied in foods as a natural sweetener.
As a therapeutic agent, is has been used in a vast variety of formulations as it is reported to be anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anti-allergic, antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic and hepatoprotective.
Due to this properties, its indications have been: treatment of premenstrual syndrome, treatment of viral infections, anti-lipidemic and antihyperglycemic.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is also known to be used as a remedy for peptic ulcer and other stomach diseases.
It is used in medicine, primarily for its anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating, and antiviral effects.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has been explored for its potential in treating viral hepatitis, ulcers, and other conditions.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is included in topical products like creams and lotions for its soothing properties, particularly for skin conditions.
Licorice root, from which glycyrrhetinic acid is derived, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in treating sore throats, digestive problems, and coughs.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has shown potential in treating liver-related conditions such as chronic hepatitis (especially hepatitis C), cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid works by reducing inflammation and may help prevent further liver damage.
It has antiviral properties that help in combating viral infections affecting the liver.
Due to its ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes like cyclooxygenase (COX), glycyrrhetinic acid is used to treat inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, eczema, and asthma.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid can help reduce symptoms such as pain, swelling, and redness.
By inhibiting the enzyme 11β-HSD2, glycyrrhetinic acid increases cortisol levels in the body.
This property can help manage conditions like Addison’s disease (adrenal insufficiency), where the body doesn’t produce enough cortisol.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is sometimes used for treating peptic ulcers and gastrointestinal inflammation.
It can help protect the gastric mucosa and promote ulcer healing by reducing inflammation in the stomach lining.
It has demonstrated antiviral activity, particularly against herpes simplex virus (HSV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV).
Glycyrrhetinic Acid interferes with viral replication, making it a useful compound in antiviral treatment regimens.
It has expectorant properties, which can help reduce symptoms of chronic bronchitis and other respiratory conditions.
It helps clear mucus from the airways and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is widely used in anti-aging skincare products.
It has antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals, preventing oxidative stress and reducing skin aging signs like wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots.
It is used in products designed to soothe irritated or inflamed skin.
This makes it effective for conditions such as eczema, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, and acne.
It can reduce redness, itching, and swelling.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid can help brighten the skin and even out skin tone.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is often included in products for hyperpigmentation, such as dark spots, melasma, and sun damage.
It has been shown to have some protective effects against UV-induced skin damage, making it a useful ingredient in sunscreens and other skin products designed to protect against the harmful effects of UV radiation.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid’s anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in the treatment of acne.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid helps reduce swelling and redness, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
In traditional medicine, licorice root, the source of glycyrrhetinic acid, has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including cough, digestive issues, adrenal fatigue, and chronic inflammation.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid has been used in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries.
Some studies have suggested that glycyrrhetinic acid may support wound healing and tissue repair, although this use is more common in topical applications.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is available in dietary supplements, often combined with other herbs or compounds to promote liver health, manage inflammation, and support immune function.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid, derived from licorice, is sometimes used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages, although licorice is not commonly used in large quantities due to its potency.
However, in some cultures, licorice products, including those containing glycyrrhetinic acid, are consumed as sweeteners or flavor enhancers.
Safety profile:
Glycyrrhetinic Acid is a safe and non-toxic ingredient when used within recommended concentrations.
It has no adverse effects and is well tolerated by most skin types.
However, a patch test is recommended for added safety.
Due to limited research, pregnant individuals are advised to consult a healthcare professional before widespread use of Glycyrrhetinic Acid.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid can cause fluid retention, sodium retention, and potassium loss, which can increase blood pressure.
This is due to its effect on the renal system, where it inhibits an enzyme called 11β-HSD2, which is responsible for the breakdown of cortisol.
This leads to higher cortisol levels and sodium retention, both of which can contribute to high blood pressure.
Individuals with hypertension, heart disease, or kidney problems should avoid glycyrrhetinic acid, or use it only under strict medical supervision.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid can lead to an imbalance of electrolytes, especially potassium.
A decrease in potassium levels (hypokalemia) can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and high blood pressure.
In severe cases, it may cause cardiac arrest.
People using medications that affect potassium levels, such as diuretics, should be particularly cautious.