Liquorice
Botanical Name: Glycyrrhiza glabra
Pharmacognosy & Source
Plant Part Used
Dried unpeeled roots and stolons
Geographical Source
Spain, Russia, India
Macroscopic Features
Cylindrical pieces, yellowish interior, very sweet taste.
Constituents & Pharmacology
Active Constituents
Triterpenoid saponins (Glycyrrhizin / Glycyrrhizic acid), Flavonoids (Liquiritin)
Pharmacological Actions
Anti-inflammatory, antitussive, demulcent
Traditional Uses
Expectorant, peptic ulcers, sweetening agent
Safety & Warnings
Contraindications
Hypertension, hypokalemia, renal failure (causes sodium retention)