Green Extraction Technology: A New Direction for Licorice Processing

What Is Green Extraction?

Green extraction focuses on improving the efficiency of extracting useful plant compounds while considering solvent use, processing time, energy consumption, and environmental impact.

What Does Recent Research Show?

A 2026 systematic review examined 42 studies on conventional and newer extraction techniques for licorice. Methods such as ultrasound-assisted, microwave-assisted, and supercritical-fluid extraction were investigated as alternatives to conventional approaches.

Some methods showed potential to improve extraction efficiency or reduce processing time, although performance varied by technique and target compound.

Why Does This Matter for Manufacturers?

• Process efficiency: Research may help identify better extraction conditions.
• Resource management: Certain techniques may reduce solvent use or processing time.
• Product development: Extraction methods influence the composition and characteristics of botanical extracts.
• Quality control: Final ingredients still require suitable analytical testing.

Green extraction is an emerging area of research, and commercial suitability depends on validation, cost, safety, and the intended product specifications.

Related reading: licorice from cultivation to commercial applications.