Licorice Root for GERD has become an increasingly popular natural remedy—and for good reason. This time-tested herb has been used for thousands of years to treat ulcers, throat irritation, and digestive discomfort.
But there’s a catch: its main active compound, glycyrrhizin, can cause unwanted side effects like pseudoaldosteronism—think high blood pressure, fluid retention, and potassium loss.
That’s where DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice) comes in. By removing glycyrrhizin, DGL delivers the gut-soothing benefits of licorice for acid reflux—without the hormone-disrupting risks. And it doesn’t stop at symptom relief. DGL works by strengthening your body’s natural defense mechanisms—stimulating healing of the gut lining, improving mucus production, and increasing blood flow to damaged tissues.
For reflux sufferers, especially those with persistent inflammation or a history of ulcers, DGL offers a natural, research-backed path toward repair.
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What Makes DGL Different?
Most reflux medications focus on suppressing stomach acid. And while that can offer short-term relief, it often leads to long-term problems: impaired digestion, bacterial overgrowth, nutrient deficiencies, and dependency on meds that don’t actually fix the root issue.
DGL flips that script. Rather than reducing acid, it helps your gut handle acid better by:
- Increasing protective mucus in the stomach and esophagus
- Supporting faster regeneration of damaged tissue
- Enhancing blood supply to the gut lining
- Relaxing spasms in the upper GI tract
This makes it especially useful for reflux that comes with burning, ulcers, or gastritis—not just throat irritation or mild heartburn.
In fact, one of the most overlooked benefits of licorice root for GERD is how well it soothes inflammation in the throat. That’s actually why I started taking it—and it worked surprisingly well. If your reflux tends to flare up with hoarseness, tightness, or that raw, sore feeling in your throat, DGL may be one of the most helpful tools in your kit.
Clinical Support for DGL
Unlike many herbal supplements that rely on tradition alone, DGL has been validated in human studies for a range of upper GI issues:
1 Gastric Ulcers
In a controlled trial, patients taking 760 mg of DGL three times daily for one month saw a 78% reduction in ulcer size and 44% achieved complete healing, compared to only 6% in the placebo group. 👉 Study – Glycyrrhiza glabra, 1985
2 Comparison to Tagamet (Cimetidine)
In a head-to-head study with 100 patients, DGL matched the healing rates of cimetidine but without the side effects. 👉 Cited in Glycyrrhiza glabra
3 Functional Dyspepsia & Reflux Symptoms
A double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized controlled trial (RCT) found that a flavonoid-rich licorice extract (75 mg, twice daily) significantly improved symptoms and quality of life in patients with functional dyspepsia over 30 days. 👉 Study – Effectiveness of Nutritional Ingredients, 2022
4 Ulcer Prevention with NSAID Use
DGL reduced gastric bleeding caused by aspirin, supporting its use in patients on long-term NSAIDs. 👉 Study – Cited in PMC7348626
5 Duodenal Ulcers (Surgical Candidates)
In a compelling study, 40 patients with long-standing duodenal ulcers (up to 12 years of symptoms) avoided surgery after being treated with 3–4.5 g/day of DGL for up to 16 weeks. Relief often began within 5–7 days. 👉 Study – Cited in PMC7348626
6 Spasmolytic Effect
Radiology showed that DGL relaxed spasms in the duodenal cap, something not seen with antacids. This is an especially useful feature for reflux sufferers with cramping or delayed emptying. 👉 Study – Gut Journal, 1985
Together, these findings show that DGL is not just a feel-good folk remedy—it’s a clinically tested supplement that helps heal the gut from the inside out.
How to Use Licorice for Acid Reflux
If you’re considering trying DGL, form matters. Studies show it must mix with saliva to activate healing mechanisms. That means chewable tablets, not capsules, are the way to go.
Here’s what the aforementioned studies suggest to take it effectively:
- Dosage: 380 mg per tablet, chew 2–4 tablets daily
- Timing: Take 20 minutes before meals—not after
- Duration: Continue for 8 to 16 weeks, depending on your response
- Important: Look for products labeled “deglycyrrhizinated licorice” with no added glycyrrhizin
Consistency is key—DGL works best when used steadily, especially if your reflux symptoms are tied to inflammation, gastritis, or poor mucosal protection.
Is DGL Right for You?
If your reflux feels like it stems from these issues, DGL may be exactly the support your system needs. It’s especially promising for:
- Long-term users of acid-blocking medications
- People dealing with gastritis or esophageal inflammation
- Those with a history of ulcers or NSAID use
- Reflux sufferers who want to move toward healing rather than just symptom suppression
As always, check with your doctor—especially if you’re taking medications or managing chronic conditions. But know that DGL is widely regarded as safe, gentle, and non-hormonal, making it a smart place to begin for many.
Final Thoughts on Licorice Root for Acid Reflux
Reflux isn’t just about acid. For many of us, it’s the result of deeper issues—poor digestion, gut lining damage, chronic inflammation, and a weakened ability to defend against normal stomach acid.
DGL doesn’t block acid. It helps you handle it better by rebuilding your body’s natural defenses. And that kind of approach—supportive, strengthening, and side-effect-free—is often what makes the difference between chasing relief and finding healing.
If you’re ready to shift from band-aids to rebuilding, DGL might just be one of the best first steps you can take. If you’re looking for supplements like DGL that can improve the resilience of your gut lining, be sure and check out my Aloe for Reflux Relief: 5 Proven Benefits Backed by Studies article
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your physician for personalized care.
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