The research on the resources and distribution, the utilization in medicine, pastoralism, food and chemical industries of the five varieties of Glycyrrhiza, G.uralensis Fisch, G.Glabra L, G.Inflata Bat, G.Pallidiflora Max. G.Aspera Pall were reviewed in this paper, which will provide some scientific data for the further research on the exploitation and utilization of this plant.