Glycyrrhiza glabra

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Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as liquorice or licorice, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, southern and central Russia, and parts of Asia Minor and Iran.

Pronunciation

Glycyrrhiza glabra: /ɡlɪˈsɪrɪzə ˈɡlæbrə/

Etymology

The name Glycyrrhiza glabra is derived from the Greek words "glykos" meaning sweet and "rhiza" meaning root, referring to the plant's sweet root. The species name "glabra" comes from Latin and means smooth, which describes the texture of the plant's leaves.

Description

Glycyrrhiza glabra is a herbaceous perennial plant growing to 1 m in height. It has pinnate leaves with 9-17 leaflets, and produces small purple to pale whitish blue flowers. The plant is best known for its root, which is used as a sweetener and in traditional medicine.

Uses

The root of Glycyrrhiza glabra is used in the production of liquorice candy, and is also used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties.

Related Terms

  • Glycyrrhizin: A compound found in liquorice root that gives it its sweet taste.
  • Fabaceae: The plant family to which Glycyrrhiza glabra belongs.
  • Herbaceous: Describes a plant that has leaves and stems that die down at the end of the growing season.
  • Perennial: A plant that lives for more than two years.

External links

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