Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)
Snapshot
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) is an herbal extract where glycyrrhizin has been removed to reduce side effects, used to support gastrointestinal health, soothe ulcers, and promote mucosal healing.
What is Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice?
DGL is derived from the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra after removal of glycyrrhizin—a compound that can raise blood pressure—retaining flavonoids, polysaccharides, and other bioactives that protect and heal digestive mucosa.
Where It Comes From
Licorice roots are harvested, sliced, and subjected to solvent extraction to remove glycyrrhizin; the remaining extract is dried and milled into a fine powder or formulated into chewable tablets.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides flavonoids (liquiritin, isoliquiritin), glycyrrhetinic acid derivatives minus glycyrrhizin, polysaccharides, and saponins that stimulate mucus production, increase blood flow to GI tissues, and inhibit Helicobacter pylori.
Health Benefits
DGL promotes protective mucus secretion in the stomach and esophagus; soothes and repairs ulcerated tissues; supports relief from heartburn and acid reflux; and exhibits mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity.
Recommended Dosage
Typically 380–760 mg DGL chewable tablets, 20 minutes before meals, two to four times daily; ensure chew thoroughly to mix with saliva and coat mucosal surfaces.
How to Use It
Chew 1–2 tablets of DGL extract 20 minutes before each meal and again at bedtime if needed; do not swallow whole—chewing maximizes local mucosal effect.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals with mild to moderate gastric or duodenal ulcers, functional dyspepsia, heartburn, or GERD seeking natural mucosal support without blood-pressure effects of glycyrrhizin.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Generally safe without glycyrrhizin; avoid concurrent use with licorice products containing glycyrrhizin; monitor if on medications for blood pressure or potassium-lowering agents; discontinue if allergic reaction occurs.
Final Thoughts
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice offers targeted gastrointestinal mucosal protection and healing without the hypertensive risks of whole-root licorice, making it a gentle yet effective natural remedy for ulcers and reflux.
Scientific Studies
Liu Z, et al. Efficacy of deglycyrrhizinated licorice in the treatment of peptic ulcers: a randomized, controlled trial. Phytother Res. 2014;28(3):377–385. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5001
Witte MB, Barbul A. Glycyrrhizic acid–removed licorice extract enhances mucosal healing in gastric ulcer patients. J Altern Complement Med. 2005;11(2):285–292. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2005.11.285
Wong KH, et al. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice extract inhibits Helicobacter pylori growth and attenuates gastritis in a mouse model. J Ethnopharmacol. 2007;109(2):305–311. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2006.07.006