Volume 218 Issue 8, 24 April 2015
PLANTS IN DENTISTRY SERIES: GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA (LIQUORICE ROOT)
The cover images in volume 218 all feature botanical illustrations of plants and trees with a connection to dentistry some from the past and a selection still used in present times. Liquorice, which is featured on this issue of the journal, is actually the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, a legume native to southern Europe, India and parts of Asia. Liquorice has been used since ancient times as a traditional herbal remedy. Some studies have shown that it might be effectively used to fight the bacteria causing dental caries and periodontal disease, though there are also studies that show no effect. Interestingly, the Glycyrrhiza glabra is not botanically related to anise or fennel, though they have a similar flavour.
Illustration by Liz Pepperell
www.illustrationweb.com
Editorial
-
Advertisement
