Ingredient dictionary

Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract

Also listed as: Licorice Root Extract, Liquorice Root Extract

A plant extract made from the root of the licorice plant, Glycyrrhiza glabra. It is mainly used to soothe skin and help it feel calm and comfortable. It is on the label of 11 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract does

Soothes and calms the skin
Adds plant-based antioxidant compounds
Helps skin feel soft and comfortable

Licorice root comes from Glycyrrhiza glabra, a plant that has long been grown for its roots. Makers dry the root and extract its active compounds, mainly glycyrrhizin and plant flavonoids, using a solvent. The result is then filtered and standardized so it blends into a formula more easily. Licorice has a long history of use in food and traditional herbal practice.

Formulators use licorice root extract mainly for its soothing feel and its plant-based antioxidant compounds. It usually mixes well into water-based and gel products, and it can add a faint, sweet, earthy scent. Because it is a natural extract, its exact makeup can vary a little from batch to batch, so suppliers usually specify it carefully.

Good for

Shoppers who like plant-based ingredients and want a gentle, soothing feel in deodorants or nail treatments.

Frequently asked questions

Is licorice root extract safe for sensitive skin?

It is generally well tolerated. Still, a patch test is a good idea if you have known plant allergies or sensitive skin, since any plant extract can affect some people differently.

Why do deodorants and nail treatments contain licorice root extract?

Makers add it mainly for its soothing, plant-based feel. It appears often in deodorants and nail treatments, where formulas are meant to feel gentle and comfortable on the skin.