Glycyrrhiza glabra (Liquorice or Licorice)

Glycyrrhiza glabra (Liquorice or licorice) Shows sprig of sunlit ovate lanceolate leaves and stem. The root yields glycyrrhetinic acid and its derivatives, carbenoxolone for example. Carbenoxolone is used for the treatment of digestive tract ulcers, especially in the stomach. Antidiuretic side effects are frequent, but otherwise the drug is low in toxicity. Licorice toxicity is manifested as hypokalemia, low blood potassium. Prolonged use may raise the blood pressure. Licorice is used as flavoring and aromatic in pharmaceuticals, tobacco curing, and in confectionary. It has been used to relieve menopausal symptoms related to oestrogen withdrawal.