Glycyrrhetinic acid, a bioactive compound derived from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), has been investigated for its potential therapeutic effects in dermatology, including psoriasis. The scientific rationale for its use is primarily based on its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-proliferative properties, which are relevant to the pathogenesis of psoriasis—a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by hyperproliferation of keratinocytes and immune dysregulation.

Preclinical studies indicate that glycyrrhetinic acid can inhibit inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB signaling pathways, which play significant roles in psoriasis. In vitro, glycyrrhetinic acid has demonstrated suppression of keratinocyte proliferation and promotion of apoptosis, potentially addressing the abnormal cell turnover seen in psoriatic plaques. Some animal studies have further supported these mechanisms, showing improvement in psoriasiform lesions.

However, high-quality clinical evidence in humans is limited. While topical formulations containing glycyrrhetinic acid have shown some efficacy in small trials or open-label studies for various inflammatory skin conditions (such as eczema and contact dermatitis), robust randomized controlled trials specifically in psoriasis are lacking. Thus, while the pharmacological basis is promising, and experimental data suggest potential benefit, the clinical evidence remains preliminary.

In summary, glycyrrhetinic acid’s use for psoriasis is scientifically motivated and supported by mechanistic and early experimental evidence, but it lacks strong clinical validation at this time.