Q.8 Glycyrrhiza glabra is used in the treatment of
Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) is primarily used in the treatment of cough. This perennial herb from the Fabaceae family has been a staple in traditional medicine, especially Ayurveda and Unani systems, due to its antitussive and expectorant properties from glycyrrhizin.
Option Breakdown
This question tests pharmacognosy knowledge of Glycyrrhiza glabra medicinal uses, common in exams like GPAT, NEET, or GATE Life Sciences.
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(1) Cough: Correct. Its demulcent action soothes irritated throat mucosa, while expectorant effects help expel mucus. Used in cough syrups and lozenges worldwide.
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(2) Insomnia: Incorrect. No sedative or hypnotic properties documented; glycyrrhizin may even cause mild stimulation via adrenal effects.
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(3) Diarrhoea: Partially relevant but secondary. It has mild antidiarrheal activity via flavonoids, but not primary use (psyllium or opium better).
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(4) Rheumatism: Incorrect as primary. Anti-inflammatory effects exist (from glabridin), but used more for skin conditions or adjunctively, not first-line.
Correct Answer: (1) Cough. Matches standard pharmacopoeia listings.
Introduction to Glycyrrhiza Glabra Cough Treatment
Glycyrrhiza glabra cough treatment is a must-know for pharmacy and Life Sciences exams targeting Glycyrrhiza glabra medicinal uses. This article solves the exact MCQ on its primary therapeutic application versus insomnia, diarrhoea, and rheumatism, highlighting licorice root’s role in respiratory health for NEET/GPAT aspirants.
Key Medicinal Properties
Glycyrrhiza glabra (Yashtimadhu) yields glycyrrhizin (50x sweeter than sugar), liquiritin, and flavonoids. Primary benefits:
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Antitussive/Demulcent: Coats throat, reduces cough reflex – basis for cough drops.
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Other: Antiulcer (PUD), anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective.
Used in formulations like Sitopaladi churna for dry cough.
Why Cough Over Other Options?
| Condition | Glycyrrhiza Role | Primary? |
|---|---|---|
| Cough | Main use (expectorant) | Yes |
| Insomnia | None | No |
| Diarrhoea | Mild astringent | Secondary |
| Rheumatism | Anti-inflammatory | Adjunct |
Option (1) reflects Ayurvedic and modern pharmacognosy.
Exam Tips and Precautions
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Memorize: Source (roots), active (glycyrrhizin), uses (cough, peptic ulcer).
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Caution: Hypertension risk from pseudoaldosteronism (prolonged use >20g/day).
