Glycyrrhizic acid ammonium salt
[CAS# 53956-04-0]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Digestive system medication >> Liver disease medication
• Name: Glycyrrhizic acid ammonium salt
• Synonyms: 3-O-(2-O-beta-D-Glucopyranuronosyl-alpha-D-glucopyranuronosyl)-18beta-g lycyrrhetinic acid ammonium salt
• Molecular Formula: C₄₂H₆₁O₁₆^.NH₄
• Molecular Weight: 839.97
• CAS Registry Number: 53956-04-0
• EC Number: 258-887-7
• SMILES: C[C@]12CC[C@](C[C@H]1C3=CC(=O)[C@@H]4[C@]5(CC[C@@H](C([C@@H]5CC[C@]4([C@@]3(CC2)C)C)(C)C)O[C@@H]6[C@@H]([C@H]([C@@H]([C@H](O6)C(=O)O)O)O)O[C@H]7[C@@H]([C@H]([C@@H]([C@H](O7)C(=O)O)O)O)O)C)(C)C(=O)O.N

Properties

• Melting point: 217 ºC

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H319
• Precautionary Statements: P264+P265-P280-P305+P351+P338-P337+P317

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315

Discovory and Applicatios

Glycyrrhizic acid ammonium salt, a derivative of glycyrrhizic acid, is a compound with diverse applications in the fields of pharmacology, cosmetics, and food industry. It is a salt form of glycyrrhizic acid, which is the principal active component derived from the root of *Glycyrrhiza glabra*, commonly known as licorice. This compound is known for its sweet taste and has been used in various traditional and modern applications.

Glycyrrhizic acid was first isolated in the 19th century by scientists who were studying the components of licorice root. It was subsequently identified as the compound responsible for the characteristic sweet flavor of licorice. The ammonium salt form of glycyrrhizic acid, often prepared through the reaction of glycyrrhizic acid with ammonium hydroxide, offers enhanced solubility in aqueous solutions compared to its free acid form, making it suitable for a wider range of applications.

One of the primary applications of glycyrrhizic acid ammonium salt is in the pharmaceutical industry. It has been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits, including its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and hepatoprotective properties. The compound has been found to inhibit the replication of various viruses, including the hepatitis C virus, making it a candidate for antiviral drug development. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory effects have led to its inclusion in formulations intended to treat inflammatory conditions.

In the cosmetics industry, glycyrrhizic acid ammonium salt is utilized for its skin-soothing and anti-aging properties. It is incorporated into various skincare products due to its ability to reduce skin irritation and redness. The compound is also known to possess antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and premature aging. Its inclusion in cosmetic formulations is often aimed at improving skin texture and promoting a more even complexion.

The food industry also makes use of glycyrrhizic acid ammonium salt, primarily as a flavoring agent. Its intense sweetness, which is several times sweeter than sucrose, makes it a valuable ingredient in the formulation of various food products. Additionally, its ability to mask bitter tastes can enhance the palatability of certain products.

The synthesis of glycyrrhizic acid ammonium salt involves the neutralization of glycyrrhizic acid with ammonium hydroxide or other ammonium salts. The resulting product is a more soluble form of glycyrrhizic acid that can be easily incorporated into various formulations. The salt is characterized using techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to ensure its purity and effectiveness.

In summary, glycyrrhizic acid ammonium salt is a versatile compound with significant applications across several industries. Its pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food-related uses highlight its importance as a functional ingredient in diverse products. Ongoing research into its properties continues to explore its potential benefits and applications.

References

2023. Various Formulations of Glycyrrhizic Acid and the Possibility of Their Use in Virus-Associated and Inflammatory Diseases. Pharmaceutical Chemistry Journal, 57(3).
DOI: 10.1007/s11094-023-02907-z

2022. HPLC analysis of ammonium glycyrrhizate listed in the European, United States, and Japanese Pharmacopoeias under reported and modified conditions: revision of the peak assignment for 18α-glycyrrhizin in the European and United States Pharmacopoeias. Journal of Natural Medicines, 76(4).
DOI: 10.1007/s11418-022-01649-8

2001. Molecular Complexes of Ammonium Glycyrrhizate with Certain Medicinal Agents and Their Interferon-Inducing Activity. Chemistry of Natural Compounds, 37(2).
DOI: 10.1023/a:1012382904059