Types of Licorice Powder

Licorice powders come in three main types: Licorice Root Powder (used in teas and traditional medicines), Licorice Extract Powder (for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals), and DGL Powder (a safer option for treating digestive issues). These powders are versatile and widely used across food, medicine, and cosmetic industries.

Introduction

Licorice: Forms, Applications, and Global Leadership

Licorice is available in various forms in the market, including licorice root, licorice root powder, licorice extract powder, licorice extract paste (liquid), solid licorice extract, DGL licorice, licorice granules, licorice nuggets, and more.

Sepidan Osareh Jonoob Co. stands as one of the world’s leading producers and exporters of licorice products. The company produces high-quality licorice in compliance with global standards and exports its products to numerous countries worldwide.

Licorice is a versatile ingredient, widely used across various industries, such as cosmetics and personal care, pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and tobacco manufacturing.

As a highly effective herbal remedy, licorice offers numerous health benefits. It is used to treat digestive disorders, peptic ulcers, heartburn, indigestion, coughs, skin conditions, sore throat, respiratory problems, and more. Its natural properties bring significant advantages to human health.

In this article, we explore the types of licorice powder, their characteristics, and their applications, providing an insightful overview of this remarkable plant and its contributions to various industries.

Licorice Extract Powder / Root Powder

Another type of licorice powder is Licorice Extract Powder. According to Sepidan Osareh Jonoob Co., this powder has a yellowish-brown color and is water-soluble, making it versatile across a range of applications. It is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products as an anti-aging agent and in food products as a natural ingredient.

Licorice extract powder possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it effective for treating skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and sunburn. In the cosmetics industry, it is commonly found in creams, gels, and serums, where it helps to soothe irritation, improve skin tone, and reduce redness. Additionally, it is used in the pharmaceutical, food and beverage, cosmetics, and tobacco industries due to its unique properties and health benefits.

This powder also helps inhibit the production of melanin, making it a natural brightening agent that evens out skin tone and prevents hyperpigmentation. Its use extends to medicinal products aimed at promoting digestive health and addressing respiratory ailments.

Licorice Root Powder

Another variety is Licorice Root Powder, derived directly from dried and finely ground licorice roots. This type of powder is widely used in tea bags, medicinal syrups, herbal infusions, and other traditional beverages due to its natural flavor and therapeutic benefits.

Licorice root powder has a lighter color compared to DGL powder and licorice extract powder. It is particularly valued for its natural ability to:

Brighten skin tone by inhibiting the accumulation of pigments, making it a natural lightening agent.
Balance stomach acid levels and support digestive health by aiding the intestines in breaking down food.
Relieve symptoms of respiratory issues such as sore throats and coughs.

In topical applications, licorice root powder is used in gels and ointments to help reduce pigmentation and promote an even skin tone. It also provides anti-inflammatory benefits, making it useful in soothing skin irritations and conditions.

Applications of Licorice Powders

Licorice powders, whether extract-based or root-based, are utilized in a variety of industries, including:

Cosmetics: Anti-aging creams, brightening serums, and sunburn treatments.
Pharmaceuticals: Medicinal syrups, capsules, and ointments for digestive and respiratory health.
Food and Beverages: Flavoring teas, syrups, and traditional drinks, as well as confectionery products.
Tobacco: Used as a flavoring agent to enhance aroma and taste.

Conclusion

Licorice extract powder and licorice root powder, each with its unique characteristics, play a crucial role in numerous industries. From skincare and medicinal remedies to culinary applications, these versatile powders demonstrate the remarkable potential of licorice as a natural resource with extensive benefits for health and industry.

Licorice DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice)

DGL Licorice: A Versatile Derivative of Licorice Root

One of the forms of licorice powder is DGL Licorice (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice), which undergoes a process to significantly reduce its glycyrrhizin content. Glycyrrhizin, a key compound in licorice, is responsible for its natural sweetness.

Properties and Benefits of DGL Licorice

DGL is primarily used in industries such as pharmaceuticals, confectionery, food and beverages, chocolates, pet food, and children’s nutritional supplements. Its reduced glycyrrhizin content makes it a safer option for individuals with diabetes and high blood pressure.

The primary function of DGL is to stimulate protective factors in the gastrointestinal system. It strengthens the intestinal lining, protecting it against ulcers, and is highly effective in controlling acid reflux and preventing heartburn. By increasing mucus production, it creates a protective barrier for the esophagus and stomach against acid damage.

DGL is produced in powdered form and has a light yellowish-brown color.

HGL vs. DGL Licorice

HGL Licorice (High Glycyrrhizin Content):

Contains higher levels of glycyrrhizin and is used in specific pharmaceutical applications, such as hair care products like shampoos to prevent hair loss.
Available in both extract and powder forms.

DGL Licorice (Low Glycyrrhizin Content):

Derived from licorice roots, DGL is safer to consume due to its reduced glycyrrhizin content.
It has fewer drug interactions and is better suited for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

Production Process

Licorice roots are cleaned, dried, and ground. During the extraction process, both HGL and DGL can be produced depending on the processing requirements.

Applications of DGL Licorice

DGL is widely used in various forms, including:

Tablets and Capsules: For treating gastrointestinal disorders like ulcers and acid reflux.
Teas: A calming remedy for digestive issues.
Mouthwash: To promote oral health.
Ointments: For treating skin disorders such as eczema.

Conclusion

DGL Licorice, with its reduced glycyrrhizin content, is a safer and more versatile licorice product, offering numerous health benefits while minimizing side effects. Its applications across industries like pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics highlight its value as a natural remedy and functional ingredient.