Licorice (Glycyrrhiza):

Therapeutic actions:

Anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anti-spasmodic, demulcent, expectorant, laxative. (Newall, et al., 1996. p. 183) (Mills & Bone, 2000, p. 465)

Phytochemical constituents that enhance these:

• Glycyrrhizin & Glycyrrhetinic acid - anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, detoxifier, inhibition of fibrosis and treatment of jaundice. (Newall, et al., 1996. p. 184)

Supporting evidence:

In-vitro studies have shown the above properties for Glycyrrhizin (GL), Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) and their derivatives. Studies on anti-ulcer activity have shown positive results for the use of licorice and its compounds, probably through the mediation of certain prostaglandins. It has also been found to be hepatoprotective, and this is thought to occur through inhibition of the cytochrome P450 activity. This was shown in vitro by preventing the conversion of CCl₄ to the highly reactive substance CCl₃. Other studies have shown hepatoprotective activity through activation of the glucuronidation pathway. (Newall, et al., 1996. p. 184) (Mills & Bone, 2000, p. 466-472)