Licorice: A Review on Phytochemical Insights and Therapeutic Potential

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn) is a medicinal plant with significant therapeutic potential due to its bioactive compounds like glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhizic acid. It exhibits a range of pharmacological properties, including anticancerous, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antispasmodic effects, and is known to promote hair growth and regulate weight. However, recent studies have also identified some toxicity and adverse effects associated with its use. This review explores the phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities of licorice, emphasizing the importance of safety considerations for its effective and responsible application in medicine and food.