Extract that has anti-inflammatory properties (Source: Healthnotes Review of Complementary and Integrative Medicine, www.healthwell.com/healthnotes/Herb/). In addttion, licorice root contains constituents that work to interrupt the stimulation of an enzyme that activates melanin production, so this part of the plant can be effective for improving dark spots and hyperpigmentation (Source: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, February 2003, pages 1,201-1,207).