Licorice Root

The primary antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds found in Licorice Root are the glycosides - glycyrrhizin and glycyrrizinic acid, flavonoids, and saponins. Licorice root is used traditionally to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin and studies have shown the skin lightening effects of licorice root extract.  In many parts of the world, licorice extract is used to treat hyperpigmentation, or darkening of the skin. Licorice extract is considered one of the many natural compounds, along with various types of citrus fruits, that act as a skin brightener. It is believed that the licorice root extract reduces hyperpigmentation by blocking tyrosinase, a skin enzyme responsible for the pigmentation process.