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Ingredient Guide

Licorice Root Extract

Licorice Root Extract is derived from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant and contains glycyrrhizin, a natural compound known for its soothing effects on the digestive tract. It is widely used to support digestive comfort, manage mild stress responses, and promote immune balance.

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Licorice Root Extract

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Ingredient guide

Licorice Root Extract

What it is: Licorice Root Extract is a concentrated botanical extract from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, rich in glycyrrhizin and other active plant compounds.
What it does: It supports soothing of digestive tract tissues, helps maintain adrenal function and balanced cortisol levels under stress, and is connected with immune system support.
How it is used: Most often used in supplements for digestive comfort, adrenal and stress-support formulas, immune health, and sometimes in herbal blends for respiratory wellness.
Natural sources and supplement forms: Naturally found in licorice root; supplemental forms include dried root powder, fluid extracts, and standardized extracts with measured glycyrrhizin content.
Why it appears in supplement formulas: Included for its traditional use to ease digestive irritation, support healthy response to stress, and help bolster immune defenses.
What to know before use: High or prolonged intake may raise blood pressure or lower potassium; consult your healthcare provider if you have heart or kidney concerns or use related medications.
Interesting Fact

Licorice Root: A Sweet Tradition in Herbal Use

Licorice root has been valued for centuries across Asia and Europe, not only for its naturally sweet flavor but also for its content of glycyrrhizin, a unique compound that gives licorice its characteristic taste. Extracts are commonly used in supplements for their natural plant compounds, making licorice root a popular ingredient in many herbal formulas today.

FAQ

Common questions about Licorice Root Extract

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Licorice Root Extract

What is Licorice Root Extract and how is it used in supplements?

Licorice Root Extract is derived from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant and standardized for glycyrrhizin and other phytochemicals. In supplements, it is valued for its ability to support digestive comfort, soothe mucous membranes, and help modulate the body's stress response, making it popular in formulas for digestive, immune, and adrenal health.

What are common supplement forms of Licorice Root Extract?

Licorice Root Extract is typically found in capsules, tablets, and powders. Many supplement formulas use a standardized extract with a specific glycyrrhizin concentration, but there are also deglycyrrhizinated forms (DGL), which have had most glycyrrhizin removed and are often used for digestive support with fewer concerns about blood pressure changes.

Are there any safety concerns with taking Licorice Root Extract supplements?

High-dose or prolonged use of Licorice Root Extract containing glycyrrhizin can lead to elevated blood pressure, water retention, and low potassium levels. It’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for those who are pregnant, have hypertension, or take medications affecting electrolyte balance. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) may reduce some of these risks.

How does Licorice Root Extract differ from deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL)?

Licorice Root Extract generally contains glycyrrhizin, which is associated with both the beneficial soothing effects and most of the safety concerns, such as impacting blood pressure. DGL is a form with most glycyrrhizin removed and is commonly used to support digestive comfort with a lower risk of affecting blood pressure or potassium levels.

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