Glycyrrhizic Acid, with CAS Number 1405-86-3, is the primary sweet-tasting constituent of licorice root. It appears as a white crystalline powder with an intensely sweet taste.
This versatile natural compound serves as an intense sweetener, functional ingredient, and bioactive agent across food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and nutraceutical industries.

 

Technical Specifications

ITEMS SPECIFICATIONS
Appearance White crystalline powder
Assay ≥95%
Loss on drying ≤6.0%
Residue on Ignition ≤0.2%
Heavy Metal (Pb) ≤10ppm
Arsenic ≤2ppm

 

Packaging & Storage

  • Net weight 25kgs fiber drum.
  • Keep it away from light at a temperature below 25℃.

 

Benefits of Glycyrrhizic Acid

Natural Sweetener:
Provides intense sweetness with low caloric impact, ideal for flavor enhancement in foods and beverages.

Anti-inflammatory & Soothing:
Helps reduce inflammation and calm skin irritation, making it valuable in cosmetics and topical formulations.

Antioxidant & Hepatoprotective:
Supports liver health and protects against oxidative stress.

Antiviral & Immunomodulatory:
Exhibits activity against certain viruses and supports immune function.

Emulsifying & Stabilizing:
Acts as a natural emulsifier and gel-forming agent in food and cosmetic products.

Skin Brightening:
Inhibits tyrosinase, helping to reduce pigmentation and promote even skin tone.

 

Applications & Uses of Glycyrrhizic Acid

Glycyrrhizic Acid is widely applied across multiple industries due to its multifunctional profile:

Food and Beverage Industry

  • Natural flavor enhancer and sweetener in candies, baked goods, beverages, and seasonings.
  • Used in licorice-flavored products and as a surfactant or emulsifier.
  • Permitted under FDA GRAS regulations (via licorice and derivatives, 21 CFR 184.1408) within specified limits.

Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical

  • Hepatoprotective agent in traditional and modern liver support formulations.
  • Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic applications.
  • Ingredient in certain antiviral and immunomodulatory preparations (notably in Asia for chronic hepatitis support).

Cosmetics and Personal Care

  • Soothing and calming agent in creams, serums, and masks for sensitive or irritated skin.
  • Skin-brightening and anti-pigmentation ingredient.
  • Stabilizer and antioxidant in formulations; dipotassium glycyrrhizinate is commonly used for enhanced solubility and mildness.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Glycyrrhizic Acid safe for use in food?
A: Yes, licorice and its derivatives including glycyrrhizin are for use as flavor enhancers and sweeteners within regulated limits. However, excessive intake should be avoided due to potential effects on blood pressure and potassium levels.

Q: What is the difference between Glycyrrhizic Acid and Glycyrrhetinic Acid?
A: Glycyrrhizic Acid (glycyrrhizin) is the parent saponin found in licorice root. It is metabolized in the gut to glycyrrhetinic acid (its aglycone), which is often more biologically active and lipid-soluble.

Q: Can Glycyrrhizic Acid be used in cosmetics?
A: Yes, it is widely used in skincare for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and skin-brightening properties. Salt forms like dipotassium glycyrrhizinate are popular for better solubility and milder profile.

Q: How should Glycyrrhizic Acid be stored?
A: Store in airtight containers in a cool, dry place away from direct light and moisture to prevent degradation.

Q: Are there any side effects associated with Glycyrrhizic Acid?
A: In food amounts, it is generally safe. High or chronic intake may lead to hypertension, hypokalemia, or other pseudoaldosteronism symptoms. Topical use is typically well-tolerated.

 

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