Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
What licorice is, how classical Indian texts describe it, what published studies show and where they fall short, how to use it safely, and which GraceYes products contain it.
Names
Mulethi (Hindi); Yashtimadhu or Madhuka (Sanskrit). The part used is the root.
Classical Indian view
API Vol I lists it as Varnya and Balya (strengthening), with use in Vrana. Charaka Samhita places Madhuka in the Varnya group (Sutrasthana 4.10) and the Kandughna group (4.11).
Key compounds
Glycyrrhizin, glabridin, liquiritin.
What studies show
- Glabridin reduced UVB pigmentation and redness in guinea pigs (PubMed).
- A 2% licorice gel reduced redness, swelling and itch in atopic dermatitis over two weeks. This was a double-blind trial with about 90 patients (PubMed).
- A systematic review still rates the evidence for herbal eczema creams as insufficient (PubMed).
Safety
Contact allergy has been reported (PubMed). Patch test.
GraceYes products that contain it
Kumkumadi Face Oil, Soothing Muscle Oil.
This page is for general information and is not medical advice. Studies are linked so you can read them yourself. Always patch-test a new product, and speak to a doctor about any skin or scalp condition.