Glycyrrhizic acid, a major active constituent of licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), has been investigated for its potential effects on liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and related conditions. Several in vitro and animal studies suggest that glycyrrhizic acid exerts hepatoprotective effects, possibly by reducing liver inflammation, inhibiting oxidative stress, and modulating lipid metabolism. In particular, glycyrrhizic acid has been shown to decrease markers of liver damage (such as ALT and AST) and improve histological features in animal models of fatty liver.

Some small-scale human studies and clinical trials (primarily conducted in Japan and China) have also suggested benefits of glycyrrhizic acid preparations (often as glycyrrhizin or glycyrrhizinic acid salts) in lowering liver enzymes and improving liver function in patients with chronic liver diseases, including NAFLD. However, these studies are limited by small sample sizes, short durations, and variable study designs. Systematic reviews note that, while there is some promising preliminary data, robust large-scale randomized controlled trials are lacking, and the quality of evidence remains low to moderate.

In summary, there is some scientific evidence, mainly from preclinical and limited clinical studies, supporting the use of glycyrrhizic acid for fatty liver disease, but the evidence is not strong or conclusive. Further high-quality research is needed to establish efficacy and safety for this indication.