licorice root extract mouthwash

Licorice root extract mouthwash is an investigational herbal formulation developed by Cairo University for the prevention of dental caries, particularly in patients at high risk. The active component is an ethanol extract of *Glycyrrhiza glabra* (licorice root), which contains several bioactive polyphenols and saponins, including glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acid), glabridin, licochalcone A, licoricidin, and licorisoflavan A. The primary mechanism of action involves the inhibition of glucosyltransferase (GTF) enzymes, which are essential for the synthesis of extracellular polysaccharides by *Streptococcus mutans*. By blocking these enzymes, the extract prevents the formation of dental biofilms (plaque), thereby reducing the incidence of caries. The formulation is being evaluated in Phase 2/3 clinical trials (NCT03590977, NCT03684993) as a natural alternative to traditional antimicrobial agents like chlorhexidine.

Other names

Glycyrrhiza glabra extractlicorice extractlicorice root extract