Licorice Root Dgl
Also known as: Licorice root, Deglycyrrhizinated licorice, DGL, Glycyrrhiza glabra
Overview
Licorice root, derived from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, has been traditionally used for digestive and respiratory ailments. DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is a processed form of licorice root where glycyrrhizic acid is removed to mitigate side effects associated with its mineralocorticoid activity. Its primary applications include the management of acid reflux (GERD), functional dyspepsia, and throat infections. DGL exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mucoprotective properties, largely attributed to its flavonoid content. While research maturity is moderate with several clinical trials and systematic reviews, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically on DGL alone are still limited, and evidence quality varies.
Benefits
DGL's primary benefit lies in its mucus-enhancing activity, which may protect the esophageal lining from acid damage, potentially reducing GERD symptoms like heartburn and chest pain. Some clinical trials suggest symptom improvement in functional dyspepsia and GERD when DGL is part of herbal formulations. Secondary effects include anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may aid in treating throat infections and liver conditions. Patients with mild to moderate GERD or functional dyspepsia may find relief. One randomized controlled trial using 75 mg twice daily of a Glycyrrhiza glabra extract (GutGard®) showed symptom improvement without reported side effects, though detailed effect sizes were not provided. Another study over two years with 58 participants indicated positive effects but lacked a placebo control and did not isolate DGL's effects, limiting the strength of evidence. Benefits typically appear with regular dosing over weeks to months.
How it works
DGL primarily functions by increasing mucus secretion within the gastrointestinal tract, thereby enhancing mucosal protection against gastric acid. While whole licorice root's glycyrrhizin and its metabolites inhibit 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, leading to corticosteroid-like effects, DGL is specifically processed to minimize glycyrrhizin content, reducing these systemic effects. Flavonoids such as isoliquiritigenin and glabridin present in DGL contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. The removal of glycyrrhizin in DGL alters its metabolism and bioavailability compared to whole licorice, contributing to its improved safety profile.
Side effects
DGL is generally considered safer than whole licorice root due to the removal of glycyrrhizic acid, which is linked to hypertension and hypokalemia. At typical doses, DGL is well tolerated, with no common side effects reported in clinical trials. Uncommon side effects may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, though data are limited. Unlike whole licorice root, DGL is less likely to cause rare side effects such as sodium retention, hypertension, or hypokalemia, which are associated with chronic high doses of glycyrrhizin-containing products. However, DGL may still interact with antihypertensives, diuretics, and corticosteroids, though the risk is reduced. Patients with pre-existing hypertension, heart disease, or kidney disease should exercise caution, with DGL being the preferred form over whole licorice root. Pregnant women should avoid licorice root due to potential hormonal effects, and DGL's safety in pregnancy is not well established.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for DGL is not firmly established, but clinical studies have utilized 75 mg twice daily of a Glycyrrhiza glabra extract for GERD symptoms. Optimal dosing varies by formulation; typical DGL chewable tablets range from 380 mg to 760 mg per dose, commonly taken 2-3 times daily for digestive symptoms, based on traditional use and some clinical trials. The maximum safe dose is not well defined, but DGL is considered safer than glycyrrhizin-containing licorice. DGL is often recommended to be taken approximately 20 minutes before meals to maximize its mucosal protective effects. The removal of glycyrrhizin improves safety but may alter its pharmacokinetics. No specific cofactors are required, but maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance is advisable during long-term use.
FAQs
Is DGL safe for long-term use?
DGL is generally safer than whole licorice root, but long-term safety data are limited. Monitoring blood pressure and potassium levels is advisable for sensitive individuals.
Does DGL cure acid reflux?
DGL may reduce acid reflux symptoms by protecting the mucosa, but it is not a cure. Lifestyle changes and medical treatments remain primary for GERD management.
Can DGL raise blood pressure?
DGL is less likely to raise blood pressure than whole licorice root due to glycyrrhizic acid removal, but caution is still advised for hypertensive patients.
When should DGL be taken?
DGL is typically taken before meals, usually about 20 minutes prior, to help protect the esophageal and stomach lining from acid.
Are there better alternatives for acid reflux?
Proton pump inhibitors and comprehensive lifestyle changes have stronger evidence for effective acid reflux management compared to DGL alone.
Research Sources
- https://foodguides.com/blogs/from-the-experts/examining-licorice-root-for-acid-reflux-relief – This source discusses a clinical trial involving GutGard® (Glycyrrhiza glabra extract) which showed improvement in GERD symptoms with no reported side effects. However, it notes limitations such as unspecified sample size details and lack of reported effect sizes, indicating moderate quality.
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dgl-for-acid-reflux – This article references a 2017 prospective study on a DGL-containing formula for GERD, involving 58 participants over two years. It reported self-reported symptom improvement but highlighted limitations such as the absence of a placebo control and the inability to isolate DGL's specific effects, leading to a low-quality assessment.
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/licorice-root – This source provides a comprehensive review of Glycyrrhiza glabra, summarizing its various pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory and mucosal protection. It serves as a high-quality source for understanding the mechanistic insights of licorice root.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8703329/ – This review details the metabolism of glycyrrhizin, its mineralocorticoid effects, and the clinical uses of licorice. It is a high-quality source for understanding the safety profile and pharmacological aspects of licorice and DGL.
- https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jmf.2019.4459?journalCode=jmf – This source likely contributes to the understanding of the pharmacological efficacy and safety of licorice, providing further details on its mechanisms and potential interactions, reinforcing the information on glycyrrhizin's effects and DGL's benefits.
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