Spectral quality and UV-B stress stimulate glycyrrhizin concentration of Glycyrrhiza uralensis in hydroponic and pot system.

Glycyrrhizin, the major bioactive component of Glycyrrhiza uralensis, is widely used as a natural sweetener. Recently glycyrrhizin has been shown to have anti-tumor activity, highly active in inhibiting replication of HIV-1 and SARS-associated virus and exhibits a number of pharmacological effects. The principle objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of different spectral quality including red, blue, white and UV-B radiation on the production of glycyrrhizin, in a controlled environment.