Licorice Root
A Calming Root for Skin and Scalp That Need Extra Care
Licorice root, Glycyrrhiza glabra, comes from a perennial herb in the pea family native to Southern Europe and parts of Asia. The name licorice comes from the Greek words glykys, meaning “sweet,” and rhiza, meaning “root.” The dried root has an intensely sweet flavor due to a naturally occurring compound called glycyrrhizin, which is many times sweeter than sugar.
Historically, licorice root has been used both as a flavoring and as a botanical ingredient in traditional personal care. While true black licorice candy was originally made from licorice root extract, many modern candies now rely on anise or artificial flavors instead. This page focuses on licorice root as a topical botanical, not its use as a food or internal remedy.
In traditional Ayurvedic practices, licorice root—known as Yashtimadhu or Mulethi—has long been valued for its calming and skin-supportive qualities. When used topically, licorice root is especially appreciated for soothing irritation, supporting a more even-looking complexion, and helping calm redness associated with skin imbalance.
Topical Skin Benefits of Licorice Root
Licorice root is widely used in skincare for its gentle yet effective ability to calm, balance, and support the skin.
- Soothing & Anti-Inflammatory: Helps comfort irritated skin, ease itching, and calm redness associated with inflammatory skin conditions like Rosacea
- Supports Even Skin Tone: Traditionally used to help improve the look of uneven tone and dullness
- Blemish Support: Naturally antimicrobial properties help support clearer-looking skin
- Hydration Support: Helps support the skin’s ability to retain moisture, making it useful for dry or sensitive skin
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Problem-Skin Friendly: Often included in formulations designed for skin that feels reactive or out of balance
Hair & Scalp Benefits of Licorice Root
Licorice root is also valued in hair and scalp care for its calming and balancing properties.
- Scalp Comfort: Helps soothe dryness, flaking, and irritation
- Oil Balance: Supports a balanced scalp environment by helping regulate excess oil
- Strength & Shine: Nourishes the scalp and hair, supporting stronger-feeling, shinier hair
- Overall Scalp Health: A calm, balanced scalp helps create a healthy foundation for hair
How Licorice Root Is Used
Licorice root plays an important role in skin and scalp care, helping calm irritation, ease visible redness on the skin, and support scalp comfort when sensitivity or imbalance is present.
- Incorporated into natural soaps and bath products for problem-prone skin
- Included in hair care products such as natural shampoos and rinses designed to support scalp comfort
Licorice root is a quietly powerful botanical that brings balance and calm to both skin and scalp care. Its long history of topical use, combined with its gentle yet effective properties, makes it a thoughtful choice for products designed to soothe irritation, support clarity, and promote overall skin and scalp comfort.
