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Benefits of DGL Licorice

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Evidence-Based Benefits

  • Gastric mucosal protection — DGL stimulates mucin secretion and prostaglandin E2 production, which protect the gastric epithelium from acid damage (van Marle et al., 1981)
  • Ulcer healing — Morgan et al. (1985, n=100) found DGL was as effective as cimetidine (an H2 blocker) for maintaining healed duodenal ulcers over 2 years of follow-up
  • H. pylori activity — a standardized licorice extract (GutGard) showed anti-H. pylori activity and reduced dyspepsia symptoms in an RCT (Raveendra et al., 2012, n=120)
  • GERD symptom relief — DGL increases mucosal resistance to acid, providing symptomatic relief for reflux without suppressing acid production

What the Research Says

DGL has moderate clinical evidence for gastroprotection and ulcer support. The Morgan et al. (1985) comparison with cimetidine remains an important study showing DGL can maintain ulcer healing. The GutGard standardized extract has more recent clinical evidence for dyspepsia. DGL works by enhancing the stomach's natural defenses (mucus, blood flow, prostaglandins) rather than suppressing acid, making it complementary to acid-reducing medications. It is one of the most widely recommended natural gastroprotectants in integrative medicine.

Related Conditions

Gut HealthGerd
Full DGL Licorice Guide

References

  1. (). Comparison between cimetidine and Caved-S in the treatment of gastric ulceration, and subsequent maintenance therapy. Gut. DOI
  2. (). An extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra (GutGard) alleviates symptoms of functional dyspepsia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. DOI