Introduction
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age. It is characterized by menstrual irregularities, infertility, and various reproductive health concerns. The condition is associated with both hormonal imbalance and genetic predisposition, contributing to its complex pathophysiology. Metabolic abnormalities, including insulin resistance and associated endocrine disturbances, play a central role in disease progression. 1
Therapeutic significance of Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), a member of the Fabaceae family, has long been used in traditional medicine for a variety of therapeutic purposes. Its applications include the management of cuts, pain, cough, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Key constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra include:
- Flavonoids
- Sterols (phytoestrogens)
- Gums
- Starches
- Essential oils
These bioactive compounds contribute to its broad therapeutic profile. The phytoestrogenic sterols are associated with hypolipidemic activity, supporting reductions in circulating triglyceride and cholesterol levels.
Biological activities relevant to PCOS
Glycyrrhiza glabra possesses multiple biological properties that may be relevant in the management of metabolic and inflammatory disturbances associated with PCOS.
- Anti-inflammatory activity
- Antioxidant activity
- Antibacterial activity
- Antiviral activity
- Hepatoprotective effects
- Antiproliferative properties
- Support for wound healing and mucosal protection
Additional benefits include its use as a demulcent and its recognized low-toxicity profile. The diverse phytochemical composition of licorice contributes to its broad spectrum of physiological actions. 2
Metabolic and endocrine considerations
- Women with PCOS commonly exhibit significant metabolic dysregulation, particularly insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinemia. Reduced insulin sensitivity contributes to hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and reproductive abnormalities.
- The syndrome is also associated with increased oxidative stress and impairment of antioxidant defense mechanisms, which may further aggravate metabolic and reproductive dysfunction. In this context, Glycyrrhiza glabra has been explored as a supplementary therapeutic option because of its metabolic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- An important constituent of licorice, glycyrrhizic acid, inhibits 11β-HSD2 activity. This action may enhance mineralocorticoid receptor activity and influence body weight and body mass index. Excessive activity may also be associated with fluid retention, pseudoaldosteronism, hypertension, and hypokalemia, highlighting the importance of appropriate therapeutic use. 3
Conclusion
Glycyrrhiza glabra possesses a diverse range of pharmacological properties that align with several metabolic and inflammatory aspects of PCOS. Its phytochemical constituents contribute to hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, while also influencing endocrine pathways relevant to the disorder. As a supplementary therapeutic option, Glycyrrhiza glabra offers potential support in addressing the complex metabolic and reproductive disturbances associated with PCOS, while its physiological effects warrant careful and judicious use. 4
References:
1. Munro MG, Balen AH, Cho S, et al. The FIGO ovulatory disorders classification system. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2022;159(1):1-20. doi:10.1002/ijgo.14331. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10086853/
2. Liu H, Meng X, Wang J, et al. Serum amyloid A in polycystic ovary syndrome. Clin Chim Acta. 2021;518:151-155. doi:10.1016/j.cca.2021.03.027. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0009898121001121?via%3Dihub
3. Teede HJ, Tay CT, Laven JJE, et al. Recommendations from the 2023 international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome. Eur J Endocrinol. 2023;189(2):G43-G64. doi:10.1093/ejendo/lvad096. https://academic.oup.com/ejendo/article/189/2/G43/7242362?login=false
4. Al Anei SSS, Abu Raghif AR, Almoayed HA. Therapeutic potential of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) in modulating metabolic and inflammatory parameters in women with PCOS. Folia Med (Plovdiv). 2026;68(1):10.3897/folmed.68.e165953. doi:10.3897/folmed.68.e165953. https://foliamedica.bg/article/165953/