DGL (Licorice Root)

DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice) is the “Safe Licorice.” While raw Licorice Root is a powerful stomach healer, it contains a compound (Glycyrrhizin) that can dangerously spike blood pressure. DGL removes this risk while keeping the benefits. It works by stimulating the production of protective mucus in the stomach, acting like a natural shield against acid. The Critical Rule: You must mix it with saliva. If you just swallow a pill, it won’t work.

What is DGL?

It is Licorice Root that has undergone a special extraction process to remove Glycyrrhizin. Without this compound, it does not affect cortisol or blood pressure, making it safe for long-term use. Biologically, it is a “Secretagogue”, it tells your stomach lining to secrete more mucus and multiply its protective cells.

How it’s used in supplements

The format is everything. DGL is a “contact healer”.

• Chewable Tablets (The Gold Standard): Chewing the tablet mixes the DGL with your saliva. This activates enzymes that help the licorice coat the esophagus and stomach effectively.
• Powder: Good if mixed with a small amount of water and swished in the mouth before swallowing.
• Swallowable Capsules: Generally considered inferior. If the capsule dissolves past the stomach valve or doesn’t mix with saliva, you miss 50% of the benefit.

How it feels for most users

Immediate Soothing. People with “burning” stomachs (gastritis) often feel relief within 10-20 minutes of chewing a tablet. It is frequently used to wean off PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) because it protects the lining without suppressing acid completely.

Typical dosage ranges

750 mg – 1,500 mg: Taken before meals.

• Standard Dose: One or two chewable tablets (usually 400mg each) taken 20 minutes before breakfast and dinner.
• Frequency: It works best when taken consistently before food, prepping the stomach for the acid spike of digestion.

Side effects & considerations

• The “Regular” Licorice Danger: If your bottle does NOT say “DGL” or “Deglycyrrhizinated”, it is regular Licorice. Taking regular Licorice daily can cause Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) and Hypokalemia (Low Potassium). Be extremely careful.
• Taste: Let’s be honest, it tastes like black licorice. Many brands add chocolate or peppermint to mask it, but if you hate licorice, this will be a struggle.

Pixie-dusting & marketing tricks

The “Whole Root” Trap: Some “Gut Health” blends use cheap, whole Licorice Root powder instead of DGL extract. This is risky for anyone with heart issues. The Fix: Always check the Supplement Facts panel. It must explicitly state “Deglycyrrhizinated” or “Glycyrrhizin Removed”.

How NutriDetector evaluates DGL

NutriDetector penalizes “Gut Repair” formulas that use standard Licorice Root without a blood pressure warning. We award top scores to Chewable DGL tablets (the most effective form) and formulas that explicitly state the removal of glycyrrhizin.

FAQ

Why do I have to chew it?

Saliva activates certain compounds in the DGL and ensures it is pre-dispersed before it hits the stomach. This allows for a better coating of the esophagus and stomach lining.

Can I take it with high blood pressure?

Yes, IF it is DGL. The compound that raises blood pressure (glycyrrhizin) has been removed. However, always double-check the label to ensure it is certified DGL.

Does it help with H. Pylori?

Yes. Studies suggest DGL can inhibit the growth of Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that causes ulcers, making it a common addition to antibiotic protocols.