Glycyrrhizic Acid

Glycyrrhizic Acid, also known as Glycyrrhizin, is a licorice-derived triterpene saponin supplied as a powder. It is used in selected flavouring, cosmetic and research applications. Product selection should consider chemical form, assay method, impurity limits and the requirements of the intended application.

Synonym:
Glycyrrhizin; Glycyrrhizinic Acid
Appearance:
White crystalline powder
CAS No.:
1405-86-3
Molecular Formula:
C42H62O16
Molecular Weight:
822.94
EINECS:
215-785-7
Solubility:
Soluble in hot water

Availability:

Product Description

Product Description

Product Overview

This page covers Glycyrrhizic Acid, CAS 1405-86-3, with the molecular formula C₄₂H₆₂O₁₆ and molecular weight of 822.94 g/mol. It should be distinguished from glycyrrhetinic acid, glycyrrhizate salts and general licorice extracts, which have different chemical identities or compositions.

Technical Specifications

Item	Specification
Appearance	White crystalline powder
Assay	≥95.0%
Loss on Drying	≤6.0%
Residue on Ignition	≤0.2%
Arsenic as As	≤2 ppm

The assay method and reporting basis should be confirmed in the agreed product specification. Batch results should be reviewed against the corresponding Certificate of Analysis.

Product Features and Formulation Considerations

Licorice-Derived Saponin

Glycyrrhizic Acid is a characteristic triterpene saponin associated with licorice root and its sweet taste.

Defined Chemical Form

Confirm whether the required material is glycyrrhizic acid or a particular glycyrrhizate salt. Related materials should be evaluated separately.

Formulation Compatibility

Assess dissolution, pH compatibility, colour and stability under the intended formulation conditions.

Application-Specific Quality

Select the specification and supporting documentation according to the intended food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical or research application.

Applications of Glycyrrhizic Acid

1. Food and Flavouring

Selected food-grade material is used for licorice-related flavouring and taste modification. The flavour profile should be evaluated in the finished formulation. Permitted applications and labelling requirements must be checked for the destination market.

2. Cosmetics and Personal Care

Used as a skin-conditioning and humectant ingredient in selected personal-care formulations. Evaluate solubility, pH compatibility, colour and stability in the intended product.

3. Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Development

Appropriate grades may be used in the development of licorice-derived preparations. Chemical form, impurity profile and supporting documentation should be confirmed for the intended application.

4. Analytical and Formulation Research

Used in studies of licorice constituents, analytical method development and saponin-based formulations. Research projects should specify their purity and documentation requirements.

Packaging and Storage

Packaging

25 kg net in fibre drums. Please confirm inner packaging, palletisation and shipping-mark requirements when ordering.

Storage

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light. Keep containers tightly closed and protect the material from moisture and contamination.

Shelf life and any additional storage requirements should follow the manufacturer’s label and batch documentation.

Handling

Avoid generating or inhaling dust. Use appropriate protective equipment and follow the current product SDS.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Glycyrrhizic Acid the same as Glycyrrhizin?

Glycyrrhizin is a commonly used name for Glycyrrhizic Acid. Confirm CAS 1405-86-3 and the chemical form when ordering, as related salts may be marketed under similar names.

2. What is the difference between glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid?

Glycyrrhetinic acid is the aglycone of glycyrrhizic acid. They have different molecular structures and should be specified as separate products.

3. Is this the same as dipotassium glycyrrhizate?

No. Dipotassium glycyrrhizate is a salt of glycyrrhizic acid. Its specification and formulation behaviour should be assessed separately.

4. Is a general licorice extract equivalent to this product?

No. A general licorice extract contains multiple constituents and may have a different glycyrrhizic acid content. Compare chemical identity, assay method and reporting basis before substitution.