Licorice root is a common ingredient in candy, but it has all sorts of internal and external medicinal uses. It's often used internally (taken in tea works) for digestive issues such as heartburn, indigestion and ulcers. Initial research indicates it may be helpful in lowering bad cholesterol, and it's also helpful with certain symptoms of menopause. From the National Library of Medicine:
"Licorice roots decreased the frequency and severity of hot flashes. The administration of this harmless, inexpensive herb well accepted by the menopausal women together with the appropriate and continuous physical activities and consumption of dairy products are recommended for relieving this complication."
For external use, it's commonly used in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis. In their study of atopic dermatitis doctors Majid Saeedi, Katayoun Morteza-Semnani and M-R Ghoreishi found the following:
"Two percent licorice topical gel was more effective than 1% in reducing the scores for erythema, oedema and itching over two weeks (p<0.05). The results showed that licorice extract could be considered as an effective agent for treatment of atopic dermatitis."
The atopic dermatitis study clearly points to the effectiveness of licorice root as a topical treatment for minor skin irritations. In terms of acne (another minor skin irritation), it reduces inflammation primarily through its glycyrrhetinic acid content. Although we include it in our vegan friendly, blissani Naturals Anti-Acne Clear Face Toner primarily due it's ability to improve hyperpigmentation, it's additional anti-acne and anti-inflammatory benefits fit right into our clean skincare mission.
"Studies have shown that glabridin prevents Ultraviolet B (UVB) induced pigmentation and exerts anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting superoxide anion and cyclooxygenase activity.[45] However, more studies are needed to prove its de-pigmenting action."
Glabridin -Glycyrrhiza glabra - is an isoflavane. It has (more) anti-inflammatory as well as anti-oxidant effects. Both are important to skin with less wrinkles and less acne. The anti-inflammatory nature of licorice root is especially helpful in dealing with the symptoms of acne as it reduces the appearance of persistent blemishes and improves the time of healing.
All of this makes licorice root extract an essential healing herb inside and out. Check it out today in our blissani Naturals Anti-Acne Clear Face Toner. It's Vegan-Friendly, Cruelty-Free and Made in the USA.
For further reading on licorice root extract:
