Aslussoos (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn): A root with immense pharmaceutical potential and its utilization in Unani system of medicine

The root of the plant Aslussoos (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn) has been used since prehistoric times, and is well documented in written form starting with the earliest Greeks. The roots and rhizomes of licorice (Glycyrrhiza species) have long been used globally as a medicine and natural sweetener. According to classical Unani text Aslussoos acts as a demulcent, concoctive of phlegm, expectorant etc. It is widely used for cold (Catarrh), cough, pharyngitis, hoarseness of voice etc. Some of the Unani compound formulations containing Aslussoos are Lauq-e-Sapistan Khiyar shambar, Mufeed Joshanda, Sharbat Nazla Safoof Asl-us-Soos, Sharbat-e-Aijaz, Jawarish Aslussoos etc. It is used mainly for the treatment of peptic ulcer, pulmonary and skin diseases. Clinical and experimental studies suggest that it has several other useful pharmacological properties apart from their traditional indications. It includes antitussive, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, antioxidative, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective and cardioprotective effects. A large number of components have been isolated from licorice root, including saponins, triterpene, flavonoids, isoflavonoids, phenolics, chalcones etc. Glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acid) is normally being the main biologically active component.