Licorice:Glycyrrhiza Glabra,Licorice Root Extract.

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Therapeutics and Pharmacology:Glycyrrhiza from Licorice root stimulate endocrine system.

Licorice Root Extract INCI Name GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA EXTRACT EINECS ELINCS No 283-895-2 CAS 84775-66-6 photo picture image Glycyrrhiza has a marked effect upon the endocrine system. Its glycosides are structurally similar to the natural steroids of the body, and are responsible for the beneficial action that this herb has in the treatment of adrenal gland problems such as Addison's disease. Glycyrrhizin is fifty times stronger than sucrose, which encourages the production of hormones such as hydrocortisone. This helps to explain its anti-inflammatory action and also its role in stimulating the adrenal cortex after steroid therapy. It has an ACTH-like action on the adrenal cortex, increasing the production of gluco- and mineralocorticoids. It is used in allopathic medicine as a treatment for peptic ulceration, a similar use to its herbal use in gastritis and ulcers. It produces a highly viscous mucus over the stomach wall and reduces gastric acid secretion and eases spasms of the large intestine. It increases the secretion of bilirubin in the bile and lowers blood cholesterol levels.

 Glycyrrhiza is widely used in bronchial problems such as catarrh, bronchitis and coughs. It reduces irritation of the throat and yet has an expectorant action. It produces its demulcent and expectorant effects by stimulation of tracheal mucous secretion. It is a potent healing agent for tuberculosis, where its effects have been compared to hydrocortisone. Glycyrrhiza is also effective in helping to reduce fevers (glycyrretinic acid has an effect like aspirin), and it may have an antibacterial action as well. It can neutralise many toxins such as those of diphtheria and tetanus. Its anti-inflammatory action accounts for its use in the treatment of chronic inflammations such as arthritic and rheumatic diseases, chronic skin conditions, and autoimmune diseases in general. It may also be used as an eyebath in conjunctivitis and other inflammatory conditions of the eye surface.

 Glycyrrhiza has an antipyretic effect comparable to sodium salicylate. Asparagine is a potent diuretic, leading to speculation that its presence may reduce the chance of the whole plant increasing blood pressure compared with isolated glycyrretinic acid.

 The solidified extract, sold in sticks, forms the basis of many proprietary laxatives, stimulating bile flow, with a gentle action in constipation. Glycyrrhiza can be used as a non-sucrose sweetener, and can be taken safely by diabetics.

 Licorice has been used as far back at the 16th century in Europe to treat sore throats, menstrual cramps, fever, arthritis, respiratory problems and hypoglycemia. Introduced to the Native Americans by the English settlers it was used to treat earaches, colds, lung congestion and to disguise the taste of bitter herbs.

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citations1.Licorice:Glycyrrhiza Glabra,Licorice Root Extract.

last edit date:22th,May.2009.