Benefits of licorice extract for general health and skin
Posted by Ivatherm
Licorice, also known as sweet wood, is obtained from the roots of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, native to the Mediterranean regions and Western Asia. The plant's root has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, being considered among the oldest natural remedies in the world.
Additionally, licorice root is often used as a sweetener in beverages, sweets, and medicines. It has a unique flavor, both sweet and slightly bitter. It is 50 times sweeter than sugar but offers health benefits that sugar does not. Licorice root contains over 300 chemical compounds and flavonoids.
Licorice extract is not just a sweet and aromatic ingredient used in food, but it is also very effective for skin care.
Licorice has a long history, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient civilizations in Egypt, Greece, and China. Throughout history, people have used licorice root to reduce inflammation, soothe digestive problems, alleviate stress levels, boost the immune system, and treat respiratory problems.
Contents
What is licorice extract?
Licorice extract is a versatile ingredient, used in a wide range of products, including sweets, beverages, and cosmetics, due to its unique flavor and numerous health benefits.
One of the main components of licorice extract is glycyrrhizin, a compound that is 50 times sweeter than sugar. This makes it an alternative sweetener for those who want to reduce their sugar intake. Glycyrrhizin is responsible for the sweet taste of licorice root, as well as its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Its medicinal use dates back to Ancient Egypt, where the root was made into a sweet drink for pharaohs. Licorice was also used in traditional Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Greek medicine to soothe digestive problems, reduce inflammation, and treat respiratory issues.
Licorice root continues to be a popular ingredient, available in various forms: teas, candies, syrups. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, licorice extract is an ingredient used in skincare products to soothe and protect the skin.
Benefits of licorice extract for general health
Licorice contains over 300 different compounds, which have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties, making it a key ingredient in food supplements and other products aimed at preventing and treating health problems.
Over time, clinical studies have been conducted to determine the health benefits of licorice. The results in some areas have been promising.
Licorice extract soothes digestive problems
One of the best-known benefits of licorice extract is its ability to soothe digestive problems. Licorice has been used to relieve heartburn, indigestion, and gastric ulcers.
Several studies have shown that licorice root prevents and treats ulcers by soothing the stomach lining. Licorice extract prevents ulcer formation by suppressing gastrin production in the body. Gastrin is a hormone that stimulates gastric acid production, which can lead to ulcer formation.
Licorice extract controls cortisol levels
One of the unique properties of licorice extract is its ability to control cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the body in response to stress. High cortisol levels have been associated with several health problems, including anxiety, depression, and weight gain. Licorice extract has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, thus being used in food supplements and stress relief products.
Licorice extract boosts the immune system
Licorice extract contains compounds with antimicrobial and antiviral properties, helping to fight infections and improve overall health. It is also proven that licorice extract has antioxidant properties, making it a valuable ingredient in products that help protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals.
Licorice extract alleviates symptoms of respiratory conditions
Licorice extract can help treat sore throats and other respiratory tract conditions. Licorice root tea helps reduce minor irritations and soothe sore throats.
Herbal remedies containing licorice root can also help reduce asthma symptoms.
Additionally, some studies have shown that topical application of licorice before surgery reduces the incidence and severity of postoperative sore throats.
However, further research is needed.
Licorice extract prevents cavities
Licorice root can help the body fight bacteria that can lead to cavities.
A study involving preschool children who consumed sugar-free lollipops containing 15 mg of licorice root showed that this ingredient can significantly reduce the number of Streptococcus mutans bacteria. This reduces the acidity around the teeth, which helps prevent dental cavity formation.
Benefits of licorice extract for skin health
Licorice root is not only used as a food supplement but is also an active ingredient in certain skincare products.
Some research suggests that topical licorice extract helps reduce the symptoms of common skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and acne.
Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, liquiritin, glabridin, and licochalcone A, which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties and are beneficial for skin health. Thus, licorice is among the best natural extracts for skin care.
Licorice root extract is a natural tyrosinase inhibitor. Glabridin, one of the most powerful and active compounds in licorice extract, plays a vital role in inhibiting tyrosinase activity and, therefore, evens out skin tone and provides a brightening effect.
Hyperpigmentation occurs when skin cells produce melanin (skin pigment) in excess in certain areas and in normal quantities in others. Generally, cells generate a larger amount of melanin due to free radicals. Licorice extract fights against free radicals by inhibiting their production and preventing excessive melanin production.
Licorice extract contains liquiritin, which helps fade dark spots and prevent new ones from forming.
Therefore, cosmetic products designed to fade or prevent pigment spots often contain licorice extract.
Hyperpigmentation occurs due to sun exposure. Licorice extract is also used in creams with sun protection factor to provide both benefits in a single formula.
Ivawhite Intensive Depigmenting Serum – contains licorice extract, Herculane thermal water, wild thyme extract, passion fruit seed extract, and 4-n-butylresorcinol.
Licorice extract soothes inflammation
For centuries, licorice extract has been used in phytotherapy to soothe inflammation and irritation. Studies have shown that glycyrrhizin is beneficial in treating eczema. When licorice extract was applied topically to the skin, it significantly reduced the symptoms of this condition.
Glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce pruritus (itching), erythema (red patches), and irritations.
Licorice extract protects the skin
Licorice extract has antioxidant properties. Glycyrrhizin in licorice root offers protection against damage caused by free radicals.
Additionally, licochalcone A is an active compound present in licorice extract that protects the skin by strengthening its defense mechanisms, preventing damage caused by sun rays.
Licorice extract has an anti-aging effect
Because it has antioxidant properties, licorice extract protects the skin against damage caused by the sun's UV rays and free radicals. Thus, it prevents premature skin aging.
Licorice extract: how to use in your skincare routine
Licorice extract is generally well-tolerated by all skin types and can be easily included in your daily skincare routine. It is non-irritating and does not cause adverse effects, and it is recommended to use cosmetic products containing it daily, both in the morning and evening routine.
In the morning, after application, a cream with sun protection factor should also be used. The effects are visible after approximately four weeks.
Another extraordinary benefit of licorice extract is that it works well with other skin-brightening ingredients, such as niacinamide and vitamin C.
Licorice extract: contraindications
Although licorice root is considered safe as a food ingredient, it can cause serious side effects when consumed in large quantities or for long periods. Increased blood pressure and decreased potassium levels are among the negative effects that licorice extract can have on the body, which is why patients suffering from hypertension or heart or kidney conditions should consume it with caution.
Also, high consumption of licorice during pregnancy has been associated with premature birth and health problems in the baby. Additionally, there is not much specialized information regarding licorice consumption during breastfeeding.
In conclusion, licorice extract is an ingredient that can improve health and skin appearance. With anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hydrating properties, licorice extract offers a range of benefits for the entire body and is effective in maintaining a bright and youthful skin appearance.
Conținutul IvaStories este creat de echipa Ivatherm, brand romanesc de dermatocosmetice fondat de Dr. Rucsandra Hurezeanu. Produsele Ivatherm sunt formulate cu Apă Termală Herculane și sunt testate dermatologic, recomandate de medici specialiști.
Benefits of licorice extract for general health and skin
Licorice, also known as sweet wood, is obtained from the roots of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, native to the Mediterranean regions and Western Asia. The plant's root has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, being considered among the oldest natural remedies in the world.
Additionally, licorice root is often used as a sweetener in beverages, sweets, and medicines. It has a unique flavor, both sweet and slightly bitter. It is 50 times sweeter than sugar but offers health benefits that sugar does not. Licorice root contains over 300 chemical compounds and flavonoids.
Licorice extract is not just a sweet and aromatic ingredient used in food, but it is also very effective for skin care.
Licorice has a long history, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient civilizations in Egypt, Greece, and China. Throughout history, people have used licorice root to reduce inflammation, soothe digestive problems, alleviate stress levels, boost the immune system, and treat respiratory problems.
Contents
What is licorice extract?
Licorice extract is a versatile ingredient, used in a wide range of products, including sweets, beverages, and cosmetics, due to its unique flavor and numerous health benefits.
One of the main components of licorice extract is glycyrrhizin, a compound that is 50 times sweeter than sugar. This makes it an alternative sweetener for those who want to reduce their sugar intake. Glycyrrhizin is responsible for the sweet taste of licorice root, as well as its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Its medicinal use dates back to Ancient Egypt, where the root was made into a sweet drink for pharaohs. Licorice was also used in traditional Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Greek medicine to soothe digestive problems, reduce inflammation, and treat respiratory issues.
Licorice root continues to be a popular ingredient, available in various forms: teas, candies, syrups. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, licorice extract is an ingredient used in skincare products to soothe and protect the skin.
Benefits of licorice extract for general health
Licorice contains over 300 different compounds, which have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties, making it a key ingredient in food supplements and other products aimed at preventing and treating health problems.
Over time, clinical studies have been conducted to determine the health benefits of licorice. The results in some areas have been promising.
Licorice extract soothes digestive problems
One of the best-known benefits of licorice extract is its ability to soothe digestive problems. Licorice has been used to relieve heartburn, indigestion, and gastric ulcers.
Several studies have shown that licorice root prevents and treats ulcers by soothing the stomach lining. Licorice extract prevents ulcer formation by suppressing gastrin production in the body. Gastrin is a hormone that stimulates gastric acid production, which can lead to ulcer formation.
Licorice extract controls cortisol levels
One of the unique properties of licorice extract is its ability to control cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the body in response to stress. High cortisol levels have been associated with several health problems, including anxiety, depression, and weight gain. Licorice extract has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, thus being used in food supplements and stress relief products.
Licorice extract boosts the immune system
Licorice extract contains compounds with antimicrobial and antiviral properties, helping to fight infections and improve overall health. It is also proven that licorice extract has antioxidant properties, making it a valuable ingredient in products that help protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals.
Licorice extract alleviates symptoms of respiratory conditions
Licorice extract can help treat sore throats and other respiratory tract conditions. Licorice root tea helps reduce minor irritations and soothe sore throats.
Herbal remedies containing licorice root can also help reduce asthma symptoms.
Additionally, some studies have shown that topical application of licorice before surgery reduces the incidence and severity of postoperative sore throats.
However, further research is needed.
Licorice extract prevents cavities
Licorice root can help the body fight bacteria that can lead to cavities.
A study involving preschool children who consumed sugar-free lollipops containing 15 mg of licorice root showed that this ingredient can significantly reduce the number of Streptococcus mutans bacteria. This reduces the acidity around the teeth, which helps prevent dental cavity formation.
Benefits of licorice extract for skin health
Licorice root is not only used as a food supplement but is also an active ingredient in certain skincare products.
Some research suggests that topical licorice extract helps reduce the symptoms of common skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and acne.
Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, liquiritin, glabridin, and licochalcone A, which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties and are beneficial for skin health. Thus, licorice is among the best natural extracts for skin care.
Licorice prevents skin hyperpigmentation and fades spots
Licorice root extract is a natural tyrosinase inhibitor. Glabridin, one of the most powerful and active compounds in licorice extract, plays a vital role in inhibiting tyrosinase activity and, therefore, evens out skin tone and provides a brightening effect.
Hyperpigmentation occurs when skin cells produce melanin (skin pigment) in excess in certain areas and in normal quantities in others. Generally, cells generate a larger amount of melanin due to free radicals. Licorice extract fights against free radicals by inhibiting their production and preventing excessive melanin production.
Licorice extract contains liquiritin, which helps fade dark spots and prevent new ones from forming.
Therefore, cosmetic products designed to fade or prevent pigment spots often contain licorice extract.
Hyperpigmentation occurs due to sun exposure. Licorice extract is also used in creams with sun protection factor to provide both benefits in a single formula.
Licorice extract soothes inflammation
For centuries, licorice extract has been used in phytotherapy to soothe inflammation and irritation. Studies have shown that glycyrrhizin is beneficial in treating eczema. When licorice extract was applied topically to the skin, it significantly reduced the symptoms of this condition.
Glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce pruritus (itching), erythema (red patches), and irritations.
Licorice extract protects the skin
Licorice extract has antioxidant properties. Glycyrrhizin in licorice root offers protection against damage caused by free radicals.
Additionally, licochalcone A is an active compound present in licorice extract that protects the skin by strengthening its defense mechanisms, preventing damage caused by sun rays.
Licorice extract has an anti-aging effect
Because it has antioxidant properties, licorice extract protects the skin against damage caused by the sun's UV rays and free radicals. Thus, it prevents premature skin aging.
Licorice extract: how to use in your skincare routine
Licorice extract is generally well-tolerated by all skin types and can be easily included in your daily skincare routine. It is non-irritating and does not cause adverse effects, and it is recommended to use cosmetic products containing it daily, both in the morning and evening routine.
In the morning, after application, a cream with sun protection factor should also be used. The effects are visible after approximately four weeks.
Another extraordinary benefit of licorice extract is that it works well with other skin-brightening ingredients, such as niacinamide and vitamin C.
Licorice extract: contraindications
Although licorice root is considered safe as a food ingredient, it can cause serious side effects when consumed in large quantities or for long periods. Increased blood pressure and decreased potassium levels are among the negative effects that licorice extract can have on the body, which is why patients suffering from hypertension or heart or kidney conditions should consume it with caution.
Also, high consumption of licorice during pregnancy has been associated with premature birth and health problems in the baby. Additionally, there is not much specialized information regarding licorice consumption during breastfeeding.
In conclusion, licorice extract is an ingredient that can improve health and skin appearance. With anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hydrating properties, licorice extract offers a range of benefits for the entire body and is effective in maintaining a bright and youthful skin appearance.
Resources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/licorice-root#benefits
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-licorice-root
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323761#how-to-use-licorice-root
https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-licorice-root-89727
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/licorice-root#:
https://skinlibrary.co.uk/blogs/librarian-edits/licorice-root-skin-benefits#:
https://skinkraft.com/blogs/articles/licorice-root-for-your-skin
Echipa Ivatherm
Conținutul IvaStories este creat de echipa Ivatherm, brand romanesc de dermatocosmetice fondat de Dr. Rucsandra Hurezeanu. Produsele Ivatherm sunt formulate cu Apă Termală Herculane și sunt testate dermatologic, recomandate de medici specialiști.