Licorice roots contain 6-23% of triterpene saponin glycyrrhizin, derivatives of glycyrrhizic acid (glabroic, 18-glycyrrhizic, liquiritin, etc.), up to 4% of flavonoids (liquiritin, isoliquiritin, glabroside, quercetin, kaempferol, apigenin, etc.), mono- and dysaccharides (up to 20%), starch (up to 34%), pectin (4-6%), resins (up to 25%), and vitamins (up to 25%). ); mono- and disaccharides (up to 20 %); starch (up to 34 %); pectins (4-6 %); resins (4 %); bitter substances (2-4 %); phenolcarboxylic acids and their derivatives (salicylic acid acetate, salicylic acid, sinapic acid, ferulic acid); coumarins; alkaloids; essential oil; organic acids (tartaric, citric, apple); steroids; macronutrients.
Properties Licorice contains substances that are produced by the adrenal cortex and have extremely strong anti-inflammatory properties. A number of biologically active substances lower the level of cholesterol in the blood and contribute to the disappearance of cholesterol plaques in the blood vessels.
Biological action of licorice: adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, stimulating the adrenal cortex, detoxifying, antiviral, increasing the protective properties of the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract, expectorant, normalizing blood glucose levels, normalizing estrogen balance, etc.
The saponins contained in the plant irritate the mucous membranes of not only the respiratory tract, but also other organs, while increasing the secretion of their glands, so licorice is included in the composition of expectorants, diuretics and laxatives. Thanks to flavonoid compounds, licorice preparations have an antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscles of the bronchi.
Use
Licorice is indicated for the following conditions and diseases: