isoliquiritigenin

PhytochemicalChalcone

What is it

Isoliquiritigenin is a chalcone-class flavonoid found in licorice root (Glycyrrhiza species). It is studied preclinically for anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-cancer effects.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Anti-inflammatory (research stage)

Mixed Evidence

Preclinical evidence robust; human RCTs of isolated isoliquiritigenin absent.

How it works

Isoliquiritigenin inhibits NF-kB and modulates COX-2, displays selective estrogen receptor activity, and shows antiviral activity in vitro. Most evidence is preclinical; oral bioavailability in humans is poor, and concentrated isoliquiritigenin supplements are not commonly sold. Its presence in licorice contributes to that root's broader bioactivity.

Dosage

Not commonly dosed as an isolated supplement. Licorice root extracts standardized to glycyrrhizin or total flavonoids are the practical source.

When and how to take it

Follow underlying-product instructions.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Licorice extract

Standardized licorice products.

Provides isoliquiritigenin as part of a complex flavonoid mix.

Safety

Limited stand-alone human safety data. Licorice (its main source) raises blood pressure and lowers potassium at sustained doses via glycyrrhizin's effect on 11-beta-HSD2; deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) avoids that.

Who should be cautious

Hypertension, heart failure, hypokalemia (avoid glycyrrhizin-containing licorice).

Interactions

Through licorice, can interact with antihypertensives, corticosteroids, and digoxin.

Food sources

Licorice root tea or extract

Amount
trace isoliquiritigenin
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

What does isoliquiritigenin do?⌄

Lab studies show anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity, but human evidence is lacking.

Should I take it as a supplement?⌄

It is rarely sold by itself. Choose standardized licorice or DGL if you want the broader herb.

References

isoliquiritigenin on Wikidata — Wikidata link

isoliquiritigenin (ChEBI:310312) — ChEBI link

isoliquiritigenin (PubChem CID 638278) — PubChem link

isoliquiritigenin on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on isoliquiritigenin (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.