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Uses:
1. Flavoring and sweetening agent.
2. Demulcent (soothing and protection of mucus membrane).
3. Mild expectorant (antitussive in cough mixtures)
4. As anti-inflammatory due to its deoxycorticosterone effect, liquorice

extract & glycyrrhizic acid are used in the treatment of rheumatoid
arthritis, Addison’s disease (due to adrenocorticoid insufficiency) and
other inflammatory conditions
5. In treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers (also due to its
deoxycoticosterone effect similarity of chemical structure).
6. Antiviral in viral infections, this may be indirect effect through
stimulation of the interferon production by the T- cells. In Japan it is
used in the treatment of viral hepatitis A, B ….

Mechanism of action as antiulcer agent:
Glycyrrhizin causes inhibition of the enzymes which cause the

degradation of prostaglandins E & F. The increase in these
prostaglandins produces the protective effect on the gastric mucosa
through promoting the mucus secretion and increasing the mucosal
blood flow supply, so promoting the healing of the ulcer.

Undesirable side effects of glycyrrhizin and liquorice extract: Long
term use of Glycyrrhizin increases fluid and sodium retention and promotes
potassium depletion due to its mineralocorticoid effect. So persons with
cardiac problems, hypertension and kidney diseases should avoid
excessive quantities of liquorice.
- When used for short term treatment of cough these side effects are not
develop ed.

Alternatives to avoid the side effects of liquorice:

1. Deglycyrrhizinised powder liquorice:

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