Gut health benefits of licorice and its flavonoids as dietary supplements

Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) is used in traditional medicine, nutraceuticals, food and beverages globally. Majorly, licorice is used to treat oral, gastrointestinal, and liver disorders/diseases providing holistic digestive health benefits which in turn are linked to regulate host metabolism and immune functions. Licorice contains phytocompounds viz., glycyrrhizin, glabridin, and others that could be broadly categorized as triterpene glycosides and flavonoids. Glycyrrhizin, a triterpene glycoside, is responsible for sweetening properties of licorice and is used in food applications. On the other hand, licorice flavonoids were reported to possess a broad range of beneficial activities. This chapter provides a scientific overview highlighting the significance of licorice and its flavonoids for digestive health. We covered the pharmacological activities of licorice and its flavonoids pertaining to digestive health. We touched upon the regulatory and safety aspects that become relevant in utilizing the gut health benefits in formulating products for consumers. In addition, we presented an overview on the current knowledge of licorice flavonoids on the host gut microbiome. Finally, information on compatibility and synergistic effects of the combination of licorice and probiotics are covered, for applications in dietary supplements, foods, and beverages.