Phytochemical Characterization, Antioxidant Potential and In Vitro Anticancer Activity of Glycyrrhiza glabra L.

Abstract

Cancer remains a leading global health challenge, necessitating the exploration of safer and more effective therapeutic agents. The present study evaluates the physicochemical properties, phytochemical composition, antioxidant potential, and in vitro anticancer activity of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. root extracts. Physicochemical analysis revealed total ash (7.92%), acid-insoluble ash (0.62%), water-soluble ash (1.11%), and moisture content (7.67%), indicating good quality and purity. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, terpenoids, and glycosides. Quantitative estimation showed high phenolic (46.15 mg/g) and flavonoid (39.81 mg/g) content. Antioxidant assays demonstrated significant activity, with aqueous extract exhibiting higher total antioxidant capacity (35.82 mM/g) and ferric reducing power compared to methanolic extract. Nitric oxide scavenging activity also increased with concentration. HPTLC fingerprinting confirmed the presence of multiple bioactive constituents. In vitro anticancer activity against MCF-7 breast cancer cell line using SRB assay indicated cytotoxic potential of the extract. The findings suggest that G. glabra is a promising source of natural antioxidants and anticancer agents, warranting further investigation.