A Review of Micropropagation of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. (Licorice)

Glycyrrhiza glabra belongs to the family Fabaceae and is commonly called licorice. It is an important medicinal plant in Europe, China, and the Mediterranean. The plant's therapeutic value is also mentioned in Ayurveda and Siddha. Licorice is cultivated for commercial purposes in many parts of the world because of its economic value and demand. It is used as a flavoring agent in juices, candies, soft drinks, and beverages because of its characteristic taste and smell. In addition, it is regarded as a sweetener and thirst quencher. Licorice contains phytochemicals, and the most abundant compounds are glycyrrhizic acid, anethole, liquiritigenin, isoliquiritin, pinocembrin, and licoflavanone. The plant is a good source of antioxidants and exhibits anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer activity. Even though it has many health-benefiting features, consuming high amounts of licorice can lead to hypertension, hypokalemia, and congestive heart failure. Due to its high demand, good medicinal value, and poorly developed cultivation strategy, researchers are focusing on different aspects of the in vitro propagation of the plant. Studies have revealed that micropropagation of licorice has improved the level of secondary metabolites and high antioxidant properties. Thus, this chapter focuses on the propagation method of licorice, primarily focusing on micropropagation. Moreover, it also highlights the phytochemistry and important pharmacological activity of Glycyrrhiza glabra. 

Keywords: Glycyrrhiza glabra, Micropropagation, Phytochemistry, Glycyrrhizic acid, Multiplication, Plant regeneration, Shoot induction.