Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae - Licorice Root and Rhizome

Radix et Rhizoma GlycyrrhizaeRadix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae is the dried root and rhizome of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch., Glycyrrhiza glabra L. or Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat.I. Botanical CharacteristicsThese plants are leguminous herbs. Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. has pinnate compound leaves with oval leaflets. The flowers are purple or lavender. Glycyrrhiza glabra L. has similar leaf structures but with different flower colors and other morphological features. Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat. also has its own unique morphological characteristics within the genus.II. Collection and ProcessingThe roots and rhizomes are usually dug in spring or autumn. After cleaning, they are dried in the sun or by other drying methods.III. Chemical ConstituentsIt contains various triterpenoid saponins such as glycyrrhizin, which is a major active ingredient. There are also flavonoids, coumarins, and other chemical components.IV. Pharmacological Effects1. Anti - inflammatory effect: It can inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators, reducing inflammation in the body.2. Immune - regulating effect: It can modulate the immune system, enhancing or suppressing immune responses depending on the situation.3. Antitussive and expectorant effect: It helps relieve cough symptoms and promotes the discharge of phlegm.V. Medicinal ApplicationsIn traditional Chinese medicine, it is widely used in prescriptions. It can be used alone or in combination with other herbs to treat various diseases such as cough, asthma, peptic ulcer, and liver diseases.VI. Quality ControlQuality control mainly focuses on aspects such as the content of active ingredients like glycyrrhizin, moisture content, and the presence of impurities. Standards are set to ensure the quality and efficacy of Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae.