Farshad Akbarnejad
Dr. Jahangir Pharmaceutical& Hygienic Knowledge-based Co., Iran
Abstract Title:
Dermatology benefits of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.): A review of its potential in skin and hair disorders
Research Interests:
Licorice, a common component of sweets, has useful properties in the medical sphere. It shows several positive effects based on beneficial aspects. These advantages, notably the effects of its active compounds, are summarized in three major biological characteristics: anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immune-modulatory effects. The aim of this systematic review was to understand the medicinally useful effects of licorice and its active compounds on treating diverse skin ailments. Licorice has shown efficacy to treat acne vulgaris, rosacea, and atopic dermatitis in the form of ointments and topical gels and has mild side effects. In the last years, the efficacy of licorice in imparting anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and anti-bacterial effects were recognized during the therapy of skin deterioration, particularly acne, atopic dermatitis, and rosacea. The beneficial aspects for acne vulgaris were significantly more pronounced for the two active ingredients glycyrrhizin and licochalcone A, the licorice root extract based cosemtic product seemed to have a good dermatological and cosmetic profile and to have a good safety and efficiency. Clinical studies to investigate the therapeutic benefits of glycyrrhizin, licorice extract (in the form of cosmetic products and pharmacological agents), and the anti-acne potential of the essential constituents are scarce. A specific review article focusing on the established effects for skin diseases and the biological aspects of licorice roots to gain additional understanding for an improved clinical composite measures is overdue. Further higher-quality RCTs are warranted. This literature of the present work emphasizes that the topical extracts of licorice are a good one and safe and an efficient adjunct for the treatment of certain skin ailments.
