Licorice Root

(Glycyrrhiza glabra)

licorice root with dried pieces and powder

What It Is

Licorice root comes from the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, a perennial plant traditionally used in food, confectionery, and herbal preparations. The root contains naturally occurring compounds, including glycyrrhizin and a range of flavonoids, which contribute to its characteristic flavour and its long-standing use in food-based contexts.

Traditional & Culinary Use

Licorice root has a long history of use in traditional food and herbal systems, particularly in teas, decoctions, and syrups enjoyed after meals. Its use has often centred on supporting digestive comfort and balance, alongside its naturally sweet, grounding flavour, which has made it a familiar ingredient across many culinary traditions.

These traditional uses reflect licorice root’s role as a steady, supportive ingredient rather than one associated with stimulation or intensity.

What Research Has Explored

Scientific research has explored licorice root in relation to digestive physiology, mucosal environments, and interactions within the gut microbiome. Studies have examined how licorice-derived compounds behave within complex digestive systems, including their interaction with gut-associated tissues and microbial communities.

Research has also investigated licorice root’s broader phytochemical profile to better understand how its naturally occurring compounds function within biological systems. Together, this work helps provide context for licorice root’s continued presence in both traditional food use and modern nutritional research.

How It Interacts With the Body

Licorice root contains compounds that interact with mucosal surfaces and microbial ecosystems within the digestive tract. Through these interactions, licorice root is understood to contribute to a digestive environment that supports everyday comfort and tolerance.

When consumed as part of foods or beverages, licorice root works through these background, food-based interactions, rather than by directly altering digestive activity or function.

Who Commonly Chooses It

Licorice root is often chosen by people who describe their digestion as sensitive or unsettled, and who prefer ingredients that feel soothing and supportive rather than stimulating.

It is commonly included in dietary patterns focused on maintaining digestive balance and long-term gut comfort.

Important Context

Licorice root has been widely studied and traditionally used, but its role depends on preparation, amount, and overall dietary context. Research helps describe how licorice root’s compounds interact within biological systems and contribute to its long-standing use in food-based applications.

This ingredient is shared for educational purposes only, to support general understanding of licorice root as a food-derived ingredient.

Research references

For those who wish to explore the research context in more depth

Supplamize context

Licorice root can be selected as an optional active in certain Supplamize blends, including: