Licorice Root Extract (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Origin & Sourcing

Licorice is native to Northwest China, with the main production bases in Xinjiang, Gansu and Inner Mongolia. We source from GAP-managed farms and wild-managed harvesting areas, with full batch traceability from root lot to finished extract.

Key Benefits

• Supports digestive comfort and soothing of gastric mucosa
• Natural anti-inflammatory activity backed by long traditional use
• Classic ingredient in Kampo and traditional respiratory formulas
• Natural sweetness and flavor-masking for bitter actives
• Widely studied for oral-health applications

Applications

Confectionery and candies, herbal teas and beverages, dietary supplement capsules and powders, Kampo and OTC preparations, and natural cosmetics.

Why 2026

Japan remains a high-premium market for licorice: Chinese licorice extract exports to Japan grew +102.5% in 2025, with Kampo extract demand accounting for over 75% of botanical imports. Regulated markets pay up to 2.5x the commodity price for standardized, fully documented material — exactly the segment we serve.

Science Snapshot

Glycyrrhizic acid (glycyrrhizin) is the primary marker compound — a natural molecule roughly 30–50 times sweeter than sucrose that is metabolized to glycyrrhetinic acid. Research and centuries of traditional use support licorice for soothing the gastric mucosa and digestive comfort; deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is the widely preferred form for gastro-focused brands. The root is also studied for oral-health applications and prized as a flavor harmonizer in botanical formulas.

Quality & Specifications

• Active: Glycyrrhizic Acid 10%–26% (HPLC), custom strengths on request
• Appearance: Yellow-brown fine powder
• Solubility: Water-soluble
• Mesh: 80 mesh
• Packaging: 25 kg drums (custom formats available)
• Shelf life: 24 months in sealed, cool, dry storage

Safety & Regulatory

High-dose, long-term intake of glycyrrhizin can raise blood pressure and lower potassium levels, and EU food use is limited to specific categories under additive E958. We help formulators respect regional limits and include clear labeling for hypertensive consumers — and we supply deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) material for brands seeking digestive support without glycyrrhizin exposure.

Formulation Notes

Typical use levels run 0.5–1 g of extract per serving in teas and herbal blends, with lower levels for flavor masking of bitter actives. Licorice pairs naturally with peppermint, anise and ginger in digestive blends, and adds clean-label sweetness to confectionery.