One of the world’s oldest herbal remedies, this ingredient has many benefits for the skin

It contains liquiritin, an active compound that helps to disperse and remove excess melanin in the skin, which is responsible for giving skin its colour. This helps in evening out skin tone.

It has great benefits for the skin as well due to its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. (Source: Freepik)

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Considered one of the world’s oldest herbal remedies that comes from the root of the licorice plant, licorice root is native to Western Asia and Southern Europe. Derived from the glycyrrhiza glabra plant, licorice has long been prized in Japan due to its medicinal properties and health benefits. It is a perennial plant, well-known for its sweet-tasting root, and its root contains a wide array of bioactive natural products. “Glycyrrhizin, the sweet principle of licorice root, is a triterpene-type saponin that displays antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antimicrobial properties,” said Dr Indur Ramchandani, Director Dermatology, Jaslok Hospital & Research Center.

Here are some of the benefits of licorice root, as shared by Dr Ramchandani.

Treats dark spots

Licorice root inhibits the production of tyrosinase, thus preventing the development of dark spots on the skin. It also contains flavonoids, a plant polyphenol with antioxidant properties that protects against premature ageing, environmental stress, and discolouration. This, in turn, helps treat hyperpigmentation and melasma.

Adding to this, Dr Ramchandani said, “Licorice could treat acne by regulating the skin microbes which interfere with acne. The anti-acne mechanism of licorice happens by regulating metabolic and microbial balance.”

Brightens the skin

It contains liquiritin, an active compound that helps to disperse and remove excess melanin in the skin, which is responsible for giving skin its colour. This helps in evening out skin tone.

Sun protectant

Licorice root contains a flavonoid, a plant polyphenol with antioxidant properties that can protect the skin from pre-mature discoloration, and aging, and give sun protection. Dr Ramchandani noted that licorice contains glabridin, which is known to help stop discolouration in its tracks during and immediately after sun exposure. UV rays are the primary cause of skin discoloration, but glabridin contains UV-blocking enzymes that prevent new skin damage from occurring.

Licorice root helps reducing acne. (Source: Freepik)

Anti-inflammatory properties

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Glycyrrhizin, a chemical component of licorice, is known for its anti-inflammatory contents, which reduce redness, swelling, and irritation. It can also treat conditions such as dermatitis.

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Gives supple skin

Collagen plays a role in renewal and repair of skin cells, hence keeping the skin soft and smooth. Licorice root helps in regenerating collagen in the skin. It also boosts elastin production, a naturally occurring protein that provides strength and elasticity to the skin.

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Controls excess oil production

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Oily skin is a result of excess sebum produced by skin glands which lead to clogged pores and acne. Lico chalcone, a compound present in licorice root helps regulate oil production, thus reducing the risk of acne.

Dr Ramchandani mentioned that licorice root is available in powder form which can be consumed orally. Moreover, multiple skincare products also contain licorice root which can be used topically 1-2 times daily.

Concluding, the expert said, “People with high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease should avoid black licorice as well as those who have licorice allergies.”

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