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Dgl Licorice

Also known as: Licorice, Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice, DGL, Glycyrrhiza glabra

Overview

Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) is a specialized extract derived from the root of the *Glycyrrhiza glabra* plant, commonly known as licorice. Unlike whole licorice root, DGL undergoes a processing step to remove glycyrrhizic acid, the compound responsible for many of licorice's potential side effects, such as elevated blood pressure and potassium depletion. This modification makes DGL a safer alternative for long-term use, while retaining other beneficial compounds like flavonoids. DGL is primarily utilized as a herbal supplement to support digestive health, particularly for conditions like acid reflux (GERD) and to protect the gastric mucosal lining. Beyond its digestive applications, DGL is also investigated for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential anticancer properties, although clinical evidence for these broader uses is still developing. The plant itself is a perennial native to parts of Western Asia and Europe, and its root has a long history of use in traditional medicine.

Benefits

DGL is primarily recognized for its potential benefits in digestive health. Some evidence suggests it may help reduce symptoms of acid reflux (GERD) and offer protective effects on the mucosal lining of the digestive tract. However, high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are largely lacking to definitively confirm these effects. A 2017 observational study involving 58 participants with GERD indicated symptom improvement over two years with a DGL-containing formula, though this study lacked a placebo control and could not isolate DGL's specific effects. Beyond digestion, licorice extracts, including components found in DGL, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities in pharmacological studies. Preclinical research also points to potential anticancer properties, with compounds from licorice showing an ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and promote apoptosis in various cancer types, such as colon and prostate. It's important to note that these broader effects are often observed with whole licorice extracts, and robust clinical evidence specifically for DGL's efficacy in these areas is still needed. The strength of evidence for most benefits is moderate to low, with a need for larger, more rigorous clinical trials.

How it works

DGL's mechanism of action primarily revolves around its flavonoid content and other bioactive compounds, as the glycyrrhizic acid, which can interfere with corticosteroid metabolism, is removed. This removal prevents the mineralocorticoid effects associated with whole licorice, such as hypertension and hypokalemia. The remaining flavonoids and compounds like isoliquiritigenin are believed to modulate inflammatory pathways, promote cellular apoptosis, and exhibit antioxidant effects. In the gastrointestinal tract, DGL is thought to stimulate the production of protective mucus and enhance the integrity of the mucosal barrier, thereby aiding in the healing of ulcers and reducing irritation from stomach acid. It may also influence immune modulation and, in preclinical settings, interact with cancer cell signaling pathways like JAK2/STAT3 and Bcl-2/Bax, affecting apoptotic regulatory proteins and inflammatory cytokines.

Side effects

DGL is generally considered safer than whole licorice due to the removal of glycyrrhizic acid, which is responsible for most of licorice's adverse effects, particularly hypokalemic hypertension. Common side effects of DGL are rare and, if they occur, are typically mild, such as minor gastrointestinal discomfort. Unlike whole licorice, DGL significantly reduces the risk of interactions with corticosteroids and diuretics, which are concerns with glycyrrhizic acid. However, caution is still advised. Patients with pre-existing conditions like hypertension or kidney disease, who should strictly avoid whole licorice, may find DGL a safer alternative, but medical consultation is prudent. There is limited safety data for specific populations, such as pregnant women or individuals undergoing chemotherapy, so these groups should consult their healthcare providers before using DGL due to potential interactions or lack of established safety. Overall, DGL is well-tolerated, but comprehensive long-term safety data from large-scale clinical trials are still limited.

Dosage

The optimal dosage for DGL is not firmly established and can vary based on the specific condition and individual response. For digestive support, particularly acid reflux, common recommendations suggest taking 380 mg to 760 mg of DGL daily, often divided into multiple doses. It is frequently advised to take DGL before meals to maximize its protective effects on the gastric mucosa and help reduce reflux symptoms. Chewable tablets are a common and often preferred form for DGL, as the act of chewing stimulates saliva production, which is believed to enhance its local action in the esophagus and stomach. While there is no standardized maximum safe dose for DGL, the removal of glycyrrhizic acid means the concerns about exceeding 100 mg/day of glycyrrhizin (a guideline for whole licorice) do not apply. The bioavailability of DGL's active compounds, primarily flavonoids, is preserved in its formulation. No specific cofactors are identified as necessary for DGL's efficacy.

FAQs

Is DGL safe for long-term use?

Generally, DGL is considered safe for long-term use because the problematic glycyrrhizic acid has been removed. However, extensive long-term randomized controlled trial data are still limited.

Does DGL cure acid reflux?

Evidence suggests DGL may help reduce acid reflux symptoms, but it is not considered a cure. Lifestyle changes and established medications are more definitive treatments for GERD.

Can DGL cause high blood pressure?

It is highly unlikely for DGL to cause high blood pressure, as the component responsible for this effect, glycyrrhizic acid, is removed during its processing.

When should I take DGL?

DGL is typically recommended to be taken before meals. This timing allows it to coat and protect the digestive lining, potentially reducing symptoms like acid reflux.

Is DGL effective for cancer?

While preclinical studies show promising anticancer properties for compounds found in licorice, there is currently no clinical evidence to support DGL's use as a treatment for cancer.

Research Sources

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dgl-for-acid-reflux – This source discusses a 2017 prospective observational study involving 58 adults with GERD. It reported symptom improvement with a DGL-containing formula over two years, but noted limitations such as a small sample size, lack of placebo control, and inability to isolate DGL's specific effects.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8703329/ – This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of licorice extracts. It highlights their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities observed in in vitro and in vivo pharmacological studies, though it notes that most findings are preclinical with limited clinical trials.
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/licorice – This source, from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, discusses a systematic review and meta-analysis on licorice in chemotherapy toxicity. It indicates that licorice-containing formulas may reduce chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal toxicity through mechanisms like immune modulation, but clarifies that these findings are for formulas, not isolated DGL, and heterogeneity exists.