Collection: AKAR MANIS

Licorice / Glycyrrhiza Glabra

Akar manis or licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra) is a true superstar in the skincare industry. It has been a celebrated medicinal plant since ancient times, especially in traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda due to its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-microbial, antioxidant and anticancer properties. The main benefits of licorice included pigmenting and skin brightening. Its main active ingredient, Glabridin offers a significant inhibition of tyrosinase (an enzyme responsible for the production of melanin)activity with no known toxicity to cells. It is shown not only to prevent the formation of new spots, but also to help in fading the existing spots, thanks to an active compound called liquiritin which helps dissolve and eliminate existing melanin. A significant highlight is the flavonoid content (an antioxidant-rich component) which reduces reactive oxygen species which causes aging and discoloration to the skin. Flavonoids are also anti-inflammatory, which in turn allow licorice extracts to be used to treat and soothe inflamed and irritated skin. Studies suggest that the compound licochalcone found in licorice can aid in the regulation of oil production.