Licorice (Glycyrrhiza sp.) in Health and Disease: A Minireview of Traditional Uses and Therapeutic Activities

Throughout history, human beings have utilized animals, minerals and plants for various purposes including use of them as foods and remedies.  The distribution of plants, animals and minerals varies across different regions of the world; however, we can find same species or closely related varieties in different geographical areas. Based on distinct different historical and cultural circumstances, there plants exhibit diverse therapeutic applications. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza spp.) as an ancient plant with long history of therapeutic uses is noticeable among traditional medicine of various cultures. Respectively, licorice is found in traditional medicines of Iran, India, Thailand and Korea and is recommended to respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal problems. In modern medicine diverse beneficial effects of licorice has been shown by researches. Licorice effects on oral complications, dyspepsia, dental and gingival problems, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and polycystic ovarian syndrome are examples of its positive role on human health. Considering the inhibitory effect of licorice on 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme type 2, pseudohyperaldosteronism may occur in case of long-term use of high doses and therefore, should be used with cautioun in susceptible patients. In spite of all the researches on licorice, it seems more clinical trials are needed to further confirm the therapeutic effects on this medicinal plant based on the traditional applications.