Dgl Powder
Also known as: DGL, deglycyrrhizinated licorice powder, licorice root extract (glycyrrhizin removed), Glycyrrhiza glabra extract (glycyrrhizin-free), Deglycyrrhizinated licorice
Overview
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a herbal supplement derived from the root of the *Glycyrrhiza glabra* plant, native to parts of Asia and Europe. It is specifically processed to remove glycyrrhizin, a compound responsible for the hypertensive and mineralocorticoid side effects associated with whole licorice root. DGL retains other beneficial compounds, such as flavonoids, which are believed to protect and promote the healing of the gastrointestinal mucosa. It is primarily used to support digestive health, particularly for conditions like *Helicobacter pylori* infection, gastritis, and, to a lesser extent, acid reflux. While research on DGL is moderate, with several clinical trials available, high-quality systematic reviews specifically on DGL powder are somewhat limited. The evidence is more robust for its role in *H. pylori* management than for broader digestive issues like GERD.
Benefits
DGL offers several potential benefits, primarily for gastrointestinal health. The strongest evidence supports its role in *Helicobacter pylori* management. One randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 55 treated subjects demonstrated that 150 mg of a licorice extract (GutGard, similar to DGL) significantly reduced *H. pylori* infection markers compared to placebo after 60 days, with 48-56% of treated subjects testing negative. This suggests DGL can be an effective adjunctive therapy for *H. pylori* infection. For Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), the evidence is less conclusive. A small 2017 study suggested symptom improvement with a DGL-containing formula, but it lacked a placebo control and could not isolate DGL's specific effects, making the evidence low quality. Some meta-analyses on whole licorice (not specifically DGL) have indicated benefits on metabolic parameters like body weight and BMI reduction, but this is indirect evidence for DGL. DGL appears most beneficial for individuals with *H. pylori* infection and mild digestive discomfort, with effects typically observed within 30-60 days.
How it works
DGL primarily acts on the gastrointestinal tract lining. Its mechanism of action is thought to involve the flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that remain after glycyrrhizin removal. These compounds may protect and promote the healing of the gastric mucosa by enhancing mucus production, which forms a protective barrier against stomach acid and digestive enzymes. DGL may also reduce inflammation in the gut lining. Furthermore, it is believed to inhibit the growth or adhesion of *Helicobacter pylori* bacteria, contributing to its efficacy in managing *H. pylori* infections. The exact molecular targets are not fully elucidated but are proposed to involve anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways, alongside potential direct antimicrobial effects against *H. pylori*. After oral administration, the bioactive flavonoids are absorbed, but their specific pharmacokinetics are not well characterized.
Side effects
DGL is generally considered safe and well-tolerated due to the removal of glycyrrhizin, the compound responsible for the significant side effects of whole licorice, such as hypertension and mineralocorticoid effects. Common side effects are rare, with most individuals experiencing no adverse reactions. Uncommon side effects (1-5% frequency) may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or nausea. Rare side effects (<1% frequency) have not been significantly reported. Drug interactions are minimal compared to whole licorice; however, caution is advised if DGL is combined with antihypertensives or diuretics, although the risk is substantially lower. DGL is contraindicated in patients with hypertension or cardiovascular disease if glycyrrhizin is present, but DGL specifically mitigates this risk. Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established, and consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended for these populations.
Dosage
While no standardized dosing exists, clinical trials and common usage provide guidance for DGL. For *H. pylori* management, a clinical trial used 150 mg of a licorice extract (GutGard) twice daily. For general digestive support, dosages commonly range from 380 mg DGL tablets taken twice daily. There is no established maximum safe dose for DGL, as the problematic glycyrrhizin has been removed; however, for whole licorice, glycyrrhizin intake should be limited to less than 100 mg/day per WHO guidelines. DGL is often recommended to be taken before meals to maximize its protective effects on the gastric mucosa. Chewable tablets are frequently preferred, as chewing is believed to stimulate saliva production, which may enhance contact with the mucosal lining and improve efficacy. No specific cofactors are identified as required for DGL's action.
FAQs
Is DGL effective for acid reflux?
Evidence for DGL's effectiveness in treating acid reflux is inconclusive. While some small studies suggest symptom improvement, they often lack placebo controls, making it difficult to confirm DGL's isolated effect. Lifestyle changes and conventional medications remain the first-line treatments.
Is DGL safe long-term?
DGL is generally considered safe for long-term use because the problematic glycyrrhizin compound has been removed. However, specific long-term studies on DGL are limited, so it's always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for prolonged use.
How quickly does DGL work?
For *H. pylori* infection, benefits have been observed within 30-60 days in clinical trials. For general digestive symptom relief, the timeline can vary significantly among individuals, depending on the severity and nature of the condition.
Can DGL replace antibiotics for H. pylori?
No, DGL is not recommended as a replacement for antibiotics in treating *H. pylori* infection. It may serve as an adjunctive therapy to support eradication efforts but should not be used as a substitute for standard medical treatment.
Does DGL cause high blood pressure?
Unlike whole licorice root, DGL does not typically cause high blood pressure. The glycyrrhizin compound, responsible for the hypertensive effects, is specifically removed during the processing of DGL.
Research Sources
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2013/263805 – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the efficacy of GutGard (a licorice extract) in eradicating *H. pylori* infection. It found that 150 mg of GutGard twice daily significantly reduced *H. pylori* markers, with 48-56% of treated subjects testing negative after 60 days compared to 4% in the placebo group. The study provides high-quality evidence for the role of licorice extracts in *H. pylori* management.
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dgl-for-acid-reflux – This article discusses the use of DGL for acid reflux, referencing a 2017 study that suggested symptom improvement with a DGL-containing formula. However, it highlights that the study lacked a placebo control and could not isolate DGL's specific effects, indicating low-quality evidence for this application.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29433679/ – This meta-analysis reviewed the effects of licorice consumption on metabolic parameters. It found that licorice consumption was associated with modest reductions in body weight and BMI. While this study provides insights into the broader effects of licorice, it included whole licorice and not specifically DGL, making it indirect evidence for DGL's metabolic benefits.