DESCRIPTION
Liquorice (British English) or licorice (American English) is derived from the plant Glycyrrhiza glabra meaning “sweet root” in Greek. The plant is a legume, much like a bean, and is native to Africa, Southern Europe (Mediterranean), parts of Asia including India, Nepal, as well as southern and central Russia, and Asia.
The secret to reaping the sought-after health benefits lies within the plant’s root. Liquorice root extract is removed from the plant and melted through a boiling process that absorbs much of the water. The two important parts extracted from the root are Glycyrrhizin acid, which is 50 times sweeter than sugar and gives liquorice its notable flavour, and Glabridin, which hosts a ton of medicinal purposes, like helping treat hepatitis, stomach ulcers and congestion. Together, these enzymes combine to form a super syrup or powder that’s also great for natural skin care.
History and/or folklore: Liquorice was found in King Tut’s tomb in Egypt; it was used by the Japanese Geishas and is a fundamental herb in traditional Chinese medicine. Known best to us as a tasty treat or an additive for tea or tobacco, Liquorice has been used for 4,000 years and boasts a ton of health and skin care benefits.
USES
Applying Liquorice in topical form can help bring your skin to a smooth, lighter tone thanks to the Glabridin that stops the skin from darkening after sun exposure. And since sun damage is a primary cause of discoloration of the skin, liquorice also contains UV blocking enzymes that help protect you from future damage. Thus the ingredient is used in whitening products or products treating dark spots.
Some people apply liquorice to the skin for itchy, inflamed skin (eczema), psoriasis, or a skin condition characterized by brown spots (melisma). Some articles claim that liquorice helps control oil production and will also help reduce the redness experienced by those with Rosacea, which causes a flushed face with red, patchy skin.
TOXICOLOGY
Liquorice contains glycyrrhizic acid, which can cause complications when eaten in large quantities.
ESSENTIQ PRODUCTS CONTAINING LICORICE ROOT
Professional
Actives
3.1.3 Sensitive & Problematic Skin Mask
Serums
