Food additives Europe numbers: E958
Glycyrrhizic acid is an active compound found in the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, or licorice, commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is known to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antispasmodic properties as well as being used to treat a variety of ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and digestive disorders. Glycyrrhizic acid has also been used in the treatment of liver diseases and has been found to reduce the risk of gastric cancer. Additionally, it has been used to treat ulcers, eczema, and allergies.
Glycyrrhizic acid (GA) is a naturally occurring substance found in licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). It's the main active ingredient in licorice and boasts a range of potential health benefits. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:
Source and Properties:
- Extracted from licorice root, a plant with a long history of medicinal use.
- Classified as a triterpene glycoside, a type of chemical compound with various biological activities.
Potential Benefits:
- Liver protection: Research suggests GA might help with liver diseases like chronic hepatitis [1].
- Anti-inflammatory effects: GA may possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding conditions like ulcers [2, 3].
- Other potential benefits: Studies are exploring its use for antiviral activity, antimicrobial effects, and even memory enhancement, but more research is needed [2, 3].
Use as a Sweetener:
- Approved by the FDA as a natural sweetener for food products [2].
Important Considerations:
- While generally safe, excessive consumption of GA can lead to side effects like high blood pressure, low potassium levels, and muscle weakness due to its effect on mineralocorticoid activity [2].
- People with certain medical conditions, like high blood pressure or heart disease, should consult a doctor before consuming licorice or GA-containing products [2].
Current Uses:
- Primarily used as a food sweetener, but research on its medicinal applications is ongoing [2].
Available Forms:
- GA is not typically available as a standalone supplement. You'd encounter it in licorice root extracts or certain food products.
Overall:
Glycyrrhizic acid is a natural compound with various potential health benefits, but it's crucial to be mindful of potential side effects and consult a doctor before using it for medicinal purposes.