Liquorice and Immunity Boosting Properties

Glycyrrhizin (GA) and primary metabolite 18beta-glycyrrhetinic acid (GRA) are pharmacologically active components of the medicinal liquorice root.  Both these components have previously been shown to have antiviral and immuno-modulatory properties.

These properties are well established, however the mechanisms of action are not completely understood.

In this study by Hardy et al, GA and GRA  were tested for their ability to inhibit rotavirus replication in cell culture. The long term goal of this is to discover natural compounds that may complement existing vaccines.

Results & Conclusions:

GRA treatment reduced rotavirus yields by 99% when added to infected cultures

GRA, but not GA, has significant antiviral activity against rotavirus replication in vitro, and studies to determine whether GRA attenuates rotavirus replication in vivo are underway.

Notes:

Rotavirus is the most common cause of severe diarrhea among infants and young children.  With subsequent infections immunity develops, and subsequent infections are less severe.

Liquorice is a key component of The Wise Herb Company’s Natural Health Drink UP&GO

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