Glycyrrhiza Polysaccharides Powder (GPs) Specification
Glycyrrhiza Polysaccharides Powder (GPs) is a water-soluble heteropolysaccharide complex extracted from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza spp.), typically appearing as a light yellow to off-white fine powder. Composed primarily of glucose, galactose, arabinose, and rhamnose units, it exhibits potent immunomodulatory activity through macrophage activation and antioxidant effects via free radical scavenging. GPs also demonstrate prebiotic properties by promoting beneficial gut microbiota growth.
Physicochemical Properties
- Appearance: Pale yellow to off-white amorphous powder • Organoleptic: Neutral odor with faint characteristic sweetness • Hygroscopicity: Requires airtight storage (desiccants recommended)
Structural Characteristics
- Monomer Composition: Heteropolymer of glucose, galactose, arabinose, and rhamnose • Molecular Features:
- Molecular weight: 10-500 kDa (polydisperse distribution)
- Glycosidic bonds: Predominantly β-type configurations
- Functional groups: Trace uronic acids present
Performance Parameters
| Property |
Characteristics |
| Solubility |
Water-soluble (viscous colloids), insoluble in organic solvents |
| Rheology |
Pseudoplastic behavior, shear-thinning properties |
| Thermal Stability |
Gradual decomposition from 180-200°C |
| FTIR Signature |
3400 cm⁻¹ (O-H stretch), 1000-1200 cm⁻¹ (C-O-C pyranose ring) |
Stability Profile
- pH Sensitivity: Acid hydrolysis below pH 3
- Degradation Pathways:
- Alkaline oxidation (chain scission)
- Enzymatic cleavage (cellulase-sensitive)
- Storage Conditions: <25°C in amber glass containers
Powder Characteristics
- Particle Size: 5-80 μm (laser diffraction)
- Bulk Density: 0.35-0.45 g/cm³
- Compression: Excellent compactibility for tablet formulations
Glycyrrhiza Polysaccharides Powder (GPs) Specifications
Properties
| Property |
Value |
| Material |
Glycyrrhiza Polysaccharides |
| Purity |
≥50% (Licorice Protein) |
| Appearance |
Brown Powder |
Chemical Compositions
| Licorice Polysaccharide |
≥20% |
| Licorice Protein |
≥55% |
| Glycyrrhizic Acid |
≥0.5% |
| Licorice Flavonoids |
≥0.3% |
| Total Amino Acids |
≥48% |
| Moisture |
< 5% |
*The above product information is based on theoretical data. For specific requirements and detailed inquiries, please contact us.
Glycyrrhiza Polysaccharides Powder (GPs) Functional Applications
1. Animal Nutrition & Health
- Poultry Feed Additive:
- Enhances Nrf2/Keap-1 pathway activation
- Upregulates endogenous antioxidants (SOD↑ 35%, CAT↑ 28%)
- Improves FCR by 12-15% in broilers
2. Pharmaceutical Development
- Immunomodulation:
- Stimulates macrophage phagocytosis (↑2.1-fold)
- Elevates serum immunoglobulins (IgM +40%, IgG +25%)
- Anti-Adhesion Therapy: Blocks H. pylori gastric colonization
3. Functional Food Ingredients
- Antioxidant Efficacy:
- DPPH radical scavenging: IC50 0.8 mg/mL
- Hydroxyl radical inhibition: 73% at 5 mg/mL
- Metabolic Health: Attenuates oxidative stress markers
4. Advanced Materials
- Nanocomposite Films:
- Silver nanoparticle stabilization (15-20 nm diameter)
- Antimicrobial efficacy: >99% against E. coli/S. aureus
- Biomedical Coatings: Enhances wound dressing biocompatibility
5. Cosmetic Formulations
- Skin Protectants:
- Reduces UV-induced lipid peroxidation by 60%
- Improves skin barrier integrity (TEWL↓ 22%)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Are GPs safe?
Generally considered safe (GRAS) at normal doses (typical 100–500 mg/day). No significant toxicity noted, although extremely high consumption could lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort. No drug interactions noted, but concurrent use with immunosuppressants should be discussed with professionals.
Q2. How do they differ from other licorice extracts?
Unlike glycyrrhizin (which affects electrolytes) or flavonoids (small molecules), GPs are immune/gut targeting, non-toxic macromolecules with no systemic side effects. They are very water-soluble, which makes them different from lipophilic licorice compounds.
Q3. How are GPs stored?
Store in tight containers at 2–8°C along with desiccants. Keep away from light, humidity (>5% moisture accelerates degradation), and heat. Solutions require refrigeration and use within 48 hours.
