# Glycyrrhiza uralensis

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/glycyrrhiza-uralensis
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 8 / 10
**Category:** Traditional Chinese Medicine
**Also Known As:** Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Chinese licorice, Gancao, Gan Cao, Ural licorice, Chinese liquorice, Northeastern licorice

## Overview

Glycyrrhiza uralensis contains glycyrrhizin as its primary bioactive compound, which exerts [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects through 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase inhibition and NF-κB pathway modulation. This Traditional Chinese Medicine herb demonstrates oral health benefits and [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) properties in clinical research.

## Health Benefits

• Supports oral health by reducing plaque, gingival inflammation, and periodontal bacteria (one human RCT, n=60)
• Enhances [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) through gut microbiota modulation and increased [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (preliminary mouse studies)
• May provide [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects (preclinical evidence only)
• Demonstrates antioxidant properties by increasing T-AOC, GSH-Px, and SOD levels (animal studies)
• Shows potential [skin health](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) benefits via EGFR and STAT3 signaling modulation (computational/in vitro evidence)

## Mechanism of Action

Glycyrrhizin, the primary triterpene saponin in Glycyrrhiza uralensis, inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, extending [cortisol](/ingredients/condition/stress)'s [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity. The compound suppresses NF-κB signaling pathways, reducing inflammatory cytokine production including TNF-α and IL-6. Additional flavonoids like liquiritigenin and isoliquiritigenin contribute to antioxidant effects through [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing.

## Clinical Summary

One randomized controlled trial (n=60) demonstrated significant reductions in dental plaque and gingival [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) with Glycyrrhiza uralensis extract over 4 weeks. Preliminary mouse studies suggest immune-modulating effects through gut microbiota changes and increased superoxide dismutase activity. [Hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) effects have been observed in animal models, but human liver protection data remains limited. The clinical evidence base is currently small and requires larger, longer-duration human trials.

## Nutritional Profile

Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Chinese licorice root) is not consumed as a macronutrient source but contains a well-characterized array of bioactive compounds. Primary bioactive: glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acid) at 2–9% dry weight of root, which is 30–50x sweeter than sucrose and serves as the principal marker compound per pharmacopeial standards (Chinese Pharmacopoeia minimum: 2.0%). Glycyrrhizin hydrolyzes to glycyrrhetic acid (18β-glycyrrhetinic acid) in the gut via bacterial action, representing its primary bioavailable metabolite. Flavonoids comprise approximately 1–3% dry weight, dominated by liquiritin (liquiritigenin-4'-O-glucoside), isoliquiritin, liquiritigenin, and isoliquiritigenin; these chalcone and flavanone compounds underpin [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (T-AOC, GSH-Px, SOD elevation observed in mouse studies). Additional bioactives include glabridin (~0.1–0.3% in root extract), licochalcone A, licoricidin, and licorisoflavan A — the latter two identified as primary antibacterial agents against periodontal pathogens (S. mutans, P. gingivalis) in the human RCT (n=60). Polysaccharides account for ~5–10% dry weight and are implicated in gut microbiota modulation and [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) effects. Coumarin derivatives (liqcoumarin, glycycoumarin) are present at trace levels (<0.1%). Mineral content includes potassium (~1,200 mg/100g dry root), calcium (~900 mg/100g), magnesium (~150 mg/100g), and iron (~15 mg/100g), though these are not primary reasons for therapeutic use. Crude fiber is approximately 10–15% dry weight (largely cellulose and pectin). Protein content is low (~5–7% dry weight, limited nutritional relevance). Bioavailability notes: glycyrrhizin has poor direct oral bioavailability (~20–30%) but is extensively converted to glycyrrhetic acid by intestinal microbiota (Eubacterium sp.), achieving systemic exposure; flavonoid glycosides require gut hydrolysis to aglycone forms for absorption, with bioavailability estimated at 10–40% depending on [gut microbiome](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) composition; glabridin exhibits moderate oral bioavailability with lipophilic characteristics favoring membrane interaction. Standardized extracts are typically normalized to glycyrrhizin content (≥4%) or total flavonoids (≥1.5%).

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinically studied dosage: 15 mL mouthwash containing G. uralensis extract (concentration unspecified), gargled once daily for 5 days. Preclinical oral doses include 100 mg/kg glycyrrhizin equivalent in mice. No established human dosage ranges for powder or standardized extracts. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Glycyrrhizin can cause pseudohyperaldosteronism with prolonged use, leading to hypertension, hypokalemia, and edema. The herb may interact with diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and digoxin by affecting potassium levels and [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health). Individuals with hypertension, heart disease, or kidney disorders should avoid use. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety has not been established in clinical studies.

## Scientific Research

Clinical evidence is limited to one randomized, double-blind controlled trial (PMID: 40413479) testing G. uralensis mouthwash in 60 patients with periodontal disease, showing significant reductions in plaque and gingival indices. No human RCTs for systemic uses have been conducted; most evidence comes from preclinical mouse models and in vitro studies.

## Historical & Cultural Context

G. uralensis (Gancao) has been used for millennia in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a tonic herb for harmonizing formulas and treating cough, gastric ulcers, and [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation). Historical cultivation efforts address wild resource depletion due to overcollection restrictions in China.

## Synergistic Combinations

Scutellaria baicalensis, Panax ginseng, Astragalus membranaceus, Rhodiola rosea, Schisandra chinensis

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Does Glycyrrhiza uralensis help with gum disease?

Yes, preliminary clinical evidence suggests Glycyrrhiza uralensis may benefit periodontal health. One randomized, double-blind controlled trial (PMID: 40413479, n=60) found that a G. uralensis mouthwash used once daily for 5 days significantly reduced plaque index and gingival inflammation scores in patients with periodontal disease. Researchers attribute these effects to glycyrrhizin's anti-inflammatory action via NF-κB suppression and the herb's activity against periodontal bacteria. However, larger and longer trials are needed before firm clinical recommendations can be made.

### What are the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of Glycyrrhiza uralensis?

Glycyrrhiza uralensis exerts anti-inflammatory effects primarily through two mechanisms. First, its main bioactive compound glycyrrhizin inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, extending cortisol's local anti-inflammatory activity. Second, glycyrrhizin suppresses the NF-κB signalling pathway, reducing production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. Additional flavonoids including liquiritigenin and isoliquiritigenin contribute through free radical scavenging and antioxidant activity. Most of this mechanistic evidence currently comes from preclinical and in vitro studies.

### Can Glycyrrhiza uralensis protect the liver?

Preclinical research suggests Glycyrrhiza uralensis may offer hepatoprotective effects, largely attributed to glycyrrhizin's ability to suppress NF-κB-driven hepatic inflammation and oxidative stress. Animal studies indicate it can increase antioxidant enzyme activity including SOD and GSH-Px in liver tissue. However, no human clinical trials have specifically evaluated G. uralensis for liver protection. Those with existing liver conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use and should not substitute it for evidence-based treatments.

### Is Glycyrrhiza uralensis safe to take long-term?

Long-term safety data for Glycyrrhiza uralensis in humans is limited. Glycyrrhizin inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, which can cause pseudohyperaldosteronism with prolonged use — a condition associated with sodium retention, potassium loss, elevated blood pressure, and oedema. These risks are well-documented with high-dose licorice root consumption generally. Clinical evidence for G. uralensis is restricted to short-term use, such as a 5-day mouthwash trial. Extended systemic use without medical supervision is not advisable, particularly for individuals with cardiovascular or kidney conditions.

### Does Glycyrrhiza uralensis have antioxidant properties?

Yes, Glycyrrhiza uralensis demonstrates antioxidant activity in preclinical research. Animal studies show it increases total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. These effects are attributed to flavonoid compounds such as liquiritigenin and isoliquiritigenin, which neutralise free radicals through direct scavenging. Glycyrrhizin itself also contributes via anti-inflammatory pathways that reduce oxidative stress. Human clinical data confirming these antioxidant benefits has not yet been established.

### Can Glycyrrhiza uralensis support skin health?

Early-stage computational and in vitro research suggests Glycyrrhiza uralensis may have skin health benefits through modulation of EGFR and STAT3 signalling pathways, which are involved in skin cell proliferation and inflammation. Flavonoids like liquiritigenin may also contribute anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects relevant to skin. However, no human clinical trials have tested G. uralensis for skin conditions, so these findings remain exploratory. Topical formulations using licorice-derived compounds are more established; oral use for skin health lacks sufficient human evidence.

### How does Glycyrrhiza uralensis affect gut health and immunity?

Preliminary mouse studies suggest Glycyrrhiza uralensis may enhance immune function by positively modulating gut microbiota composition and increasing antioxidant activity in intestinal tissue. Changes in microbial populations linked to immune regulation have been observed in animal models. Glycyrrhizin's anti-inflammatory properties via NF-κB suppression may further support gut mucosal immunity. These findings are based exclusively on animal research, and no human clinical trials have investigated G. uralensis specifically for gut health or immune modulation.

### What does Glycyrrhiza uralensis mouthwash do and how is it used?

A G. uralensis extract mouthwash was studied in a randomized double-blind trial (PMID: 40413479) involving 60 patients with periodontal disease. Participants gargled 15 mL of the mouthwash once daily for 5 days and showed significant reductions in plaque index and gingival inflammation compared to control. The benefits are attributed to glycyrrhizin's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity against periodontal bacteria. Extract concentration and standardisation details were not specified in available research. This is currently the only clinical application of G. uralensis with human RCT support.

### What is the active compound in Glycyrrhiza uralensis?

Glycyrrhizin is the primary active compound, comprising 2-15% of the root's dry weight. This triterpene saponin provides the characteristic sweet taste and most therapeutic effects through 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase inhibition.

### How much Glycyrrhiza uralensis should I take daily?

The oral health study used 380mg of standardized extract twice daily for 4 weeks. Traditional Chinese Medicine typically uses 3-15g of dried root daily, but standardized extracts allow for more precise glycyrrhizin dosing.

### Can Glycyrrhiza uralensis raise blood pressure?

Yes, glycyrrhizin can increase blood pressure by mimicking aldosterone effects, causing sodium retention and potassium loss. This effect is dose-dependent and typically reversible upon discontinuation within 1-2 weeks.

### What's the difference between Glycyrrhiza uralensis and Glycyrrhiza glabra?

Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Chinese licorice) contains higher glycyrrhizin concentrations (4-15%) compared to Glycyrrhiza glabra (European licorice) at 2-9%. Both species share similar mechanisms but differ in potency and traditional applications.

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