Diversity, Distribution, and Genetic Resources in Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn. (Mulethi)

The Glycyrrhiza glabra is a perennial cross-pollinated plant species of the Fabaceae family. The roots and leaves are the economic parts of the plant. Its roots can fix the nitrogen through symbiotic association. Various phytochemical compounds with medicinal, therapeutic, and industrial properties are present in this plant’s roots, leaves, and aerial parts. It contains pale yellow essential oil. Licorice biodiversity is facing a threat as it is considered an endangered plant. It is necessary to study the genetic diversity of Glycyrrhiza species for conservation and breeding approaches to avoid overexploitation and habitat loss. The molecular markers revolutionized the study of genetic diversity. By analyzing these markers scientists have gained insights into the evolutionary history, population structure, and phylogenetic relationships of different Glycyrrhiza species. The present chapter comprehensively compiled the past advancements in assessing genetic diversity and germplasm resources for further improvement.