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ingestible · for heartburn & acid reflux (gerd)

Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

Raveendra et al. double-blind RCT (n=50, 30 days) found GutGard licorice root extract (75 mg twice daily) produced 56% marked improvement vs 0% placebo for functional dyspepsia symptoms including epigastric fullness and pain. PMC3123991.$12-$22 for 100 chewable tablets

How to use

Chew 1-2 DGL tablets (380-760 mg) 20 minutes before meals and before bed, 3-4 times daily. Chewable form is preferred over capsules because mixing with saliva appears to activate the beneficial compounds. Use consistently for at least 4-8 weeks.

How it works

Deglycyrrhizination removes glycyrrhizin (the compound that raises blood pressure), leaving flavonoids including glabridin and licochalone that stimulate mucin secretion and prostaglandin E2 production, promoting protective mucus coating on gastric and esophageal mucosa. DGL also has mild anti-inflammatory effects on the GI tract lining.

Where to buy

Enzymatic Therapy DGL Chewable Tablets (Whole Foods, Amazon); Integrative Therapeutics DGL Chewables (iHerb, Amazon); Nature's Way DGL (Vitamin Shoppe, Amazon).

Typical cost: $12-$22 for 100 chewable tablets

Safety notes

DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) is safer than whole licorice root - the blood pressure-raising compound has been removed. Avoid whole licorice root products for GERD (risk of hypertension, hypokalemia). Still avoid in pregnancy. May interact with antihypertensives. Do not exceed recommended doses.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Raveendra et al., An extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra (GutGard) alleviates symptoms of functional dyspepsia: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study, Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 2012

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.