HA6968 Glycyrrhetinsäure-Pulver (CAS-Nr. 471-53-4)

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder Description

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder (C30H46O4; CAS: 471-53-4) is a crystalline triterpenoid compound derived from the hydrolysis of glycyrrhizin in licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). Physically, it appears as a fine, pale-yellow to white, odorless powder with a distinct bitter taste. Its crystalline nature contributes to a high melting point near 300°C. The compound exhibits low solubility in water but dissolves readily in organic solvents like ethanol, DMSO, and chloroform. Chemically, it exists primarily as the bioactive 18β-epimer, characterized by a pentacyclic oleanane-type structure featuring carboxyl and carbonyl functional groups. These groups enable critical interactions with biological targets, particularly through potent inhibition of the 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) enzyme system. Glycyrrhetinic acid demonstrates moderate stability under standard storage conditions but degrades under prolonged UV exposure or strong oxidizing agents. Its molecular mimicry of corticosteroids allows it to modulate glucocorticoid pathways without typical steroid side effects. Spectroscopic analysis reveals UV absorption maxima around 250 nm and characteristic infrared peaks for carbonyl (near 1700 cm⁻¹) and hydroxyl groups (near 3400 cm⁻¹). The compound’s hydrophobic regions facilitate membrane permeability and protein binding. Key defining properties include its thermal resilience, light sensitivity, solvent affinity, and unique bioactivity rooted in its triterpenoid architecture.

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder Applications

• Pharmaceutical Industry: Used in anti-inflammatory drugs for autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) and targeted liver cancer therapies by modifying nanocarriers to enhance chemotherapeutic delivery while reducing systemic toxicity.
• Cosmetics and Skincare Industry: Formulated into anti-aging creams and serums for UV protection, acne treatments for antibacterial action against Cutibacterium acnes, and brightening products to inhibit tyrosinase activity and reduce hyperpigmentation.
• Functional Food and Nutraceutical Industry: Incorporated into liver-protective supplements and antioxidant beverages to mitigate oxidative stress and support detoxification pathways at doses typically below 100 mg/day.
• Biotechnology and Materials Science: Engineered into transdermal drug delivery systems through PEGylation to improve solubility and as functional monomers in antimicrobial coatings for medical devices.
• Veterinary and Agriculture Industry: Developed as antiparasitic agents for livestock against Babesia infections and as biopesticides targeting fungal crop pathogens like Plasmopara viticola without chemical residues.
• Research and Diagnostic Industry: Employed as reference standards in analytical chemistry for quantifying licorice-derived compounds and in preclinical studies exploring radiation injury mitigation.

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder Packaging

Our products are packaged in customized cartons of various sizes based on the material dimensions. Small items are securely packed in PP boxes, while larger items are placed in custom wooden crates. We ensure strict adherence to packaging customization and the use of appropriate cushioning materials to provide optimal 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 - Verified using techniques such as GDMS or XRF to ensure compliance with purity requirements.

(2)    Mechanical Properties Testing - Includes tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation tests to assess material performance.

(3)    Dimensional Inspection - Measures thickness, width, and length to ensure adherence to specified tolerances.

(4)    Surface Quality Inspection - Checks for defects such as scratches, cracks, or inclusions through visual and ultrasonic examination.

(5)    Hardness Testing - Determines material hardness 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 a bioactive triterpenoid compound derived from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), formed by the hydrolysis of glycyrrhizin. It exists as a pale-yellow to white crystalline powder and serves as the core aglycone responsible for licorice’s pharmacological effects.

Q2. What are its key properties?

This compound exhibits potent anti-inflammatory, antiviral (notably against herpesviruses), and hepatoprotective activities. It achieves these effects primarily by inhibiting 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD), modulating cortisol metabolism. Unlike corticosteroids, it lacks immunosuppressive side effects at therapeutic doses.

Q3. What are its main applications?

Glycyrrhetinic acid is widely used in dermatology for treating eczema, psoriasis, and acne due to its ability to reduce inflammation and promote skin repair. It’s also formulated in oral care products for gingivitis, studied for liver protection against toxins, and applied in antiviral therapies targeting hepatitis and herpes simplex viruses.

Related Information

Common Preparation Methods

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Powder is industrially produced through the hydrolysis of glycyrrhizin extracted from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). The process begins with aqueous or hydroalcoholic extraction of crushed roots to obtain crude glycyrrhizin. This extract undergoes acid hydrolysis (typically using hydrochloric or sulfuric acid under controlled heat) or enzymatic cleavage to break the glycosidic bonds, releasing the aglycone glycyrrhetinic acid. The hydrolyzed mixture is then neutralized, and the precipitated glycyrrhetinic acid is separated via filtration or centrifugation. Subsequent purification involves recrystallization from organic solvents like ethanol or acetone, or column chromatography to remove impurities. The purified crystals are washed, vacuum-dried, and milled into a fine powder. Final pharmaceutical-grade material undergoes quality verification (HPLC, melting point, spectral analysis) to confirm ≥95% purity and compliance with CAS 471-53-4 specifications, including the characteristic 18β-epimeric form.