Licorice Root (DGL)
Glycyrrhiza glabra
A widely used herb for digestive healing and adrenal support. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) form removes the component that raises blood pressure, making it safe for gut-healing protocols.
What is Licorice Root (DGL)?
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is one of the most widely used medicinal plants globally, with documented use across Egyptian, Chinese, Greek, and Ayurvedic traditions for over 4,000 years. The root contains glycyrrhizin (50x sweeter than sugar) which provides anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties but can raise blood pressure. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) removes 97%+ of glycyrrhizin, retaining gut-healing flavonoids without cardiovascular risk.
Known Health Benefits
How It Works
Glycyrrhizin inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, which normally inactivates cortisol in the kidneys — this prolongs cortisol's anti-inflammatory effects but also causes mineralocorticoid excess (sodium retention, potassium loss, hypertension). DGL flavonoids (glabridin, liquiritigenin) stimulate mucin secretion, enhance mucosal blood flow, and inhibit H. pylori adhesion without the cortisol/mineralocorticoid effects. Glycyrrhizin also directly inhibits viral replication (studied in hepatitis C, SARS-CoV).
What Research Says
DGL has been studied in peptic ulcer disease, with early trials showing comparable healing rates to cimetidine. Modern research focuses on functional dyspepsia, GERD symptom relief, and gut barrier integrity. Full-spectrum licorice root (with glycyrrhizin) has antiviral evidence against hepatitis C and herpes simplex. Glycyrrhizin is used intravenously in Japan for chronic hepatitis treatment. Carbenoxolone (a glycyrrhizin derivative) was the first effective anti-ulcer drug.
Active Compounds
Glycyrrhizin, glabridin, liquiritigenin, chalcones, flavonoids
Forms & Bioavailability
DGL is most effective when chewed before meals, as the flavonoids need direct contact with the esophageal and gastric mucosa. Swallowing capsules is less effective for upper GI healing. Glycyrrhizin from whole licorice root is well-absorbed orally with a long half-life (6–10 hours), contributing to cumulative effects with repeated dosing.
Dosage Guidance
| Use Case | Dosage |
|---|---|
| GERD / acid reflux | 380–760 mg DGL chewable before meals |
| Peptic ulcer support | 760–1520 mg DGL before meals |
| Gut lining repair | 400–800 mg DGL 3x daily |
| Adrenal support (whole root) | 200–600 mg daily |
| Mouth ulcers (topical) | DGL paste applied to sores |
Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosing.
Potential Side Effects
Non-DGL form: may raise blood pressure, lower potassium; DGL form is much safer for most users
Who Should Avoid It
- Hypertension (whole licorice root — DGL is generally safe)
- Hypokalemia or risk factors for low potassium
- Heart failure or fluid retention conditions
- Kidney disease
- Concurrent corticosteroid or diuretic use (whole root)
- Pregnancy (whole root may increase cortisol and affect fluid balance)
Pregnancy & Lactation
Whole licorice root is contraindicated in pregnancy due to mineralocorticoid effects and a Finnish cohort study linking heavy maternal licorice consumption to shortened gestation and lower cognitive scores. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) form is considered safer but still lacks specific pregnancy safety studies. Avoid whole root during lactation; DGL in moderate amounts is likely acceptable.
Known Drug Interactions
Non-DGL: interacts with diuretics, antihypertensives, and corticosteroids
Evidence Classification
Supported by cohort studies, case-control studies, or multiple observational studies with consistent findings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between DGL and regular licorice root?
DGL has 97%+ of glycyrrhizin removed. This eliminates the risk of hypertension, fluid retention, and potassium depletion while preserving the gut-healing flavonoids. Use DGL for digestive issues. Use whole licorice root only for short-term adrenal or antiviral support under practitioner guidance.
Why should DGL be chewed rather than swallowed?
DGL's primary action is topical — the flavonoids stimulate mucin production and mucosal blood flow through direct contact with the esophageal and gastric lining. Chewing maximizes this contact. Swallowed capsules miss the esophageal benefit and deliver less active compound to the stomach surface. For GERD specifically, chewing is essential.
Can licorice root help with adrenal fatigue?
Whole licorice root prolongs cortisol's half-life by inhibiting the enzyme that deactivates it. This can provide temporary adrenal support when cortisol levels are low (as in late-stage HPA axis dysfunction). However, it should be used cautiously, for limited periods (4–6 weeks), and with blood pressure monitoring. DGL does NOT have this adrenal effect.
Does licorice root interact with blood pressure medications?
Whole licorice root (not DGL) can significantly raise blood pressure by causing sodium retention and potassium loss. It can counteract antihypertensive medications, potentiate digoxin toxicity through hypokalemia, and interact with diuretics. DGL does not have these interactions.
How much licorice candy is safe to eat?
Most American 'licorice' candy doesn't contain real licorice (uses anise flavoring). True European licorice (e.g., Dutch, Scandinavian) contains glycyrrhizin. The FDA warns that consuming 2+ ounces daily of real licorice for 2 weeks can cause health problems. People over 40 are particularly susceptible.
Can DGL help with H. pylori?
DGL flavonoids have demonstrated anti-adhesion effects against H. pylori in vitro, potentially preventing the bacterium from attaching to the stomach lining. While DGL alone is not a treatment for H. pylori infection, it is often used alongside antibiotic triple therapy and probiotics to support mucosal healing during and after treatment.
References
- Deglycyrrhizinated licorice in peptic ulcer. Larkworthy W, Holgate PF. Practitioner (1975)View study
- Glycyrrhizin, an active component of liquorice roots, and replication of SARS-associated coronavirus. Cinatl J, Morgenstern B, Bauer G, et al.. Lancet (2003)View study
- Licorice and its potential beneficial effects in common oro-dental diseases. Messier C, Epifano F, Genovese S, Grenier D. Oral Dis (2012)View study
- Prenatal licorice exposure, cortisol regulation, and cognitive abilities in children. Räikkönen K, Pesonen AK, Heinonen K, et al.. Psychoneuroendocrinology (2009)View study
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This entry is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.