Critical Review on Phytoconstituents and Pharmacological Activity of Glycyrrhiza Glabra

For a very long time, plants have been used extensively to treat both humans and animals. Herbal medications, health products, and pharmaceuticals are in greater demand. A small perennial herb in the Fabaceae/Leguminosae family, Licorice is scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra. The plant is widely recognized for having a sweet taste. The Plant’s sweetness is imparted by a substance called glycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhiza glabra is composed of various compounds such as isoliquiritin, glycyrrhizin acid, isoflavones, and glycyrrhizin. Numerous pharmacological actions have been documented for these substances, such as expectorant, anticancer, antiulcer, demulcent, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Historically, licorice has been used to cure a variety of ailments, such as epilepsy, hyperdipsia, fever, stomach ulcers, rheumatism, respiratory conditions, jaundice, hemorrhagic diseases, paralysis, skin conditions, and sexual debility. Additionally, it has been used as an anti-inflammatory during allergic reactions and as a preventative measure against gastric and duodenal ulcers. These properties make Glycyrrhiza glabra a promising candidate for future drug development. Its potential therapeutic benefits and safety profile, however, require further study.