HA6968 Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder (CAS No. 471-53-4)

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder Description

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder (C30H46O4; CAS: 471-53-4) is a crystalline triterpenoid compound produced by the hydrolysis of glycyrrhizin extracted from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). Physically, it appears as a finely divided powder with a colour ranging from pale yellow to white and without any detectable odour. It exhibits a bitter taste. Its crystalline structure results in a melting point of approximately 300 °C. The compound is poorly soluble in water but dissolves in organic solvents such as ethanol, DMSO and chloroform. Chemically, the substance is present primarily as the 18β-epimer. It possesses a pentacyclic oleanane-type structure featuring carboxyl and carbonyl groups. These groups facilitate interactions with biological targets by inhibiting the 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) enzyme system. Glycyrrhetinic acid remains stable under normal storage conditions but degrades after prolonged exposure to UV light or when in contact with strong oxidising agents. Its structural similarity to corticosteroids permits modulation of glucocorticoid pathways without the common side effects observed with typical steroid compounds. Spectroscopic analysis indicates UV absorption maxima near 250 nm and infrared absorption peaks for carbonyl groups at approximately 1 700 cm⁻¹ and hydroxyl groups near 3 400 cm⁻¹. The compound’s hydrophobic regions aid in membrane permeability and protein binding. Key properties include its thermal resilience, light sensitivity, solvent compatibility and activity based on its triterpenoid structure.

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder Applications

• Pharmaceutical Industry: Used in the formulation of anti-inflammatory medications for autoimmune disorders (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis) and in liver cancer therapies, whereby nanocarriers are modified to improve chemotherapeutic delivery while reducing systemic toxicity.
• Cosmetics and Skincare Industry: Incorporated in skincare formulations for UV protection, acne treatment offering antibacterial performance against Cutibacterium acnes, and in products designed to inhibit tyrosinase activity and alleviate hyperpigmentation.
• Functional Food and Nutraceutical Industry: Utilised in liver-protective supplements and antioxidant beverages to reduce oxidative stress and support detoxification pathways, typically at doses below 100 mg/day.
• Biotechnology and Materials Science: Employed in transdermal drug delivery systems following PEGylation to improve solubility, and as functional monomers in antimicrobial coatings for medical devices.
• Veterinary and Agriculture Industry: Applied as antiparasitic agents in livestock for the treatment of Babesia infections and as biopesticides for managing fungal crop pathogens such as Plasmopara viticola, thereby ensuring minimal chemical residues.
• Research and Diagnostic Industry: Used as reference standards in analytical chemistry for the quantification of licorice-derived compounds and in preclinical studies for the evaluation of radiation injury mitigation.

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder Packaging

Our products are packaged in customised cartons of various sizes according to the dimensions of the material. Small items are securely packed in PP boxes, while larger items are placed in custom wooden crates. We adhere to strict packaging customisation procedures and use appropriate cushioning materials to offer protection during transportation.

Packaging: Carton, Wooden Box, or Customized.

Kindly review the packaging details provided for your reference.

Manufacturing Process

1.       Testing Method

(1)    Chemical Composition Analysis – The composition is verified using techniques such as GDMS or XRF to ensure compliance with purity specifications.

(2)    Mechanical Properties Testing – Tensile strength, yield strength and elongation tests are conducted to assess material performance.

(3)    Dimensional Inspection – Thickness, width and length are measured to ensure adherence to specified tolerances.

(4)    Surface Quality Inspection – Defects such as scratches, cracks or inclusions are inspected using visual and ultrasonic examination.

(5)    Hardness Testing – Material hardness is determined to confirm uniformity and mechanical reliability.

Please refer to the SAM testing procedures for detailed information.

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder FAQs

Q1. What is glycyrrhetinic acid?

Glycyrrhetinic acid is an active triterpenoid compound derived from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and is produced by the hydrolysis of glycyrrhizin. It is observed as a pale yellow to white crystalline powder and constitutes the aglycone responsible for licorice’s pharmacological effects.

Q2. What are its key properties?

The compound exhibits anti-inflammatory, antiviral (notably against herpesviruses) and hepatoprotective properties. These effects are achieved by inhibiting 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD), thereby modulating cortisol metabolism. It does not induce the immunosuppressive effects typically associated with corticosteroids when administered at recommended dosages.

Q3. What are its main applications?

Glycyrrhetinic acid is employed in dermatology for the management of eczema, psoriasis and acne owing to its ability to reduce inflammation and support skin repair. It is also formulated in oral care products for treating gingivitis, is under investigation for liver protection against toxins, and is applied in antiviral therapies targeting hepatitis and herpes simplex viruses.

Related Information

Common Preparation Methods

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder is produced industrially through the hydrolysis of glycyrrhizin extracted from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). The process begins with an aqueous or hydroalcoholic extraction of crushed roots to obtain crude glycyrrhizin. The extract is then subjected to acid hydrolysis (typically using hydrochloric or sulphuric acid under controlled heat) or enzymatic cleavage to break the glycosidic bonds, thereby releasing glycyrrhetinic acid. Subsequently, the mixture is neutralised and the precipitated glycyrrhetinic acid is separated by filtration or centrifugation. Purification is achieved by recrystallisation from organic solvents such as ethanol or acetone, or alternatively by column chromatography to remove impurities. The purified crystals are washed, vacuum-dried and milled into a fine powder. The final pharmaceutical-grade material undergoes quality verification (using HPLC, melting point determination and spectral analysis) to confirm a purity of at least 95% and compliance with CAS 471-53-4 specifications, including the 18β-epimer form.