Description Used historically as a medicine and flavoring Guaranteed natural potency not more than 6.5% glycyrrhizin Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), a perennial plant with spikes of blue flowers, has a 3,000 year history of use as a medicine and as a flavoring agent in brewing and confectionery. Glycyrrhizin, its major active principle, is 50 times sweeter than sucrose. Licorice is currently one of the most widely used herbs and is especially popular in China. This plant is a member of the legume family.