Effectiveness of Licorice Extract (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) on Traumatic Ulcer with Parameter Study: Macrophage, Neutrophil, and Lymphocyte

Liftia Layyinatus Syifa*    -  Faculty of Dentistry, Sultan Agung Islamic University, Indonesia
Rina Kartika Sari    -  Faculty of Dentistry, Sultan Agung Islamic University, Indonesia
Dea Maynur Shalima Ismail  -  Faculty of Dentistry, Sultan Agung Islamic University, Indonesia
Rizqila Diva Pradisha  -  Faculty of Dentistry, Sultan Agung Islamic University, Indonesia

(*) Corresponding Author
DOI: 10.30659/odj.13.1.17-25

Background: Traumatic oral ulcers are common lesions characterized by epithelial loss, pain, and erythematous halos. Healing occurs through four stages: haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodelling. Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) is known for its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of licorice extract at various concentrations on macrophage, neutrophil, and lymphocyte cell counts during traumatic ulcer healing.

Methods: A post-test only group design was used with five groups: three treatment groups receiving 5%, 10%, and 15% licorice extract, and two control groups (positive: Aloclair; negative: aquadest), each with six mice. Ulcers were induced using a heated burnisher on the labial mucosa. Treatments were applied twice daily using a nano mouth spray. After euthanasia, labial tissues were fixed, processed, and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin for histological examination under 400× magnification.

Result: Phytochemical analysis revealed high flavonoid (44.669) and saponin (38.802) contents in licorice extract. Statistical tests showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in macrophage, neutrophil, and lymphocyte counts among groups. The 10% extract group showed the highest immune cell response, suggesting optimal anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects at this concentration.

Conclusion: Licorice extract effectively promotes the healing of traumatic oral ulcers. Among tested concentrations, the 10% extract provided the best therapeutic effect, accelerating healing and regulating inflammatory cell activity more effectively than other doses or controls.

Keywords: Traumatic ulcer, macrophage, neutrophil, lymphocyte

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