Licorice Root

herb Verified

Specifically for Gastritis

0% effective

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Why it works for Gastritis:

Stimulates protective mucus / mucosal defence. DGL appears to increase gastric mucus and bicarbonate secretion and promote mucosal blood flow and cell regeneration, which helps the stomach lining resist acid and heal. Designs for Health GutNow
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Licorice extracts contain flavonoids and glycyrrhetinic compounds that reduce inflammation in the gastric mucosa (important in gastritis). ScienceDirect WJARR
Antimicrobial activity against Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Several in-vitro and some clinical studies suggest licorice extracts (and standardized products like “GutGard”) can inhibit H. pylori or improve eradication rates when added to standard therapy. That matters because H. pylori is a common cause of chronic gastritis. ScienceDirect Wiley Online Library

(Short summary: DGL mainly works by coating and protecting the stomach lining + reducing inflammation; some extracts also show anti-H. pylori activity.)

How to use for Gastritis:

Form to use

Use deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) (chewable tablets, lozenges or powder) for gastritis/peptic-type problems rather than whole licorice root, to avoid glycyrrhizin-related side effects. NationalNutrition.ca MSD Manuals

Typical dose & timing (commonly used in studies / product guidance)

Chewable DGL tablets: 1–2 tablets (~300–400 mg each) chewed 15–30 minutes before meals (often 2–4 tablets/day total in divided doses). Many sources recommend ~1–2 tablets before each main meal (so roughly 300–1200 mg/day depending on tablet strength and protocol). Chew thoroughly (saliva helps disperse the active compounds). Natural Medicine Resource iHerb Get Lab Test
Duration: courses used in studies vary; many protocols for mucosal healing run 4–8 weeks (some clinicians use longer under supervision). If used to support H. pylori therapy it’s often given during the 2–4 week antibiotic course or for several weeks afterwards depending on the protocol. Gut ScienceDirect

How to take it

Chew — do not swallow whole. Chewing releases the active flavonoid fraction and mixes it with saliva for coating the esophagus/stomach. Nicoslabs
Prefer DGL products with manufacturer dosing instructions (tablet strength and recommended number per dose varies by brand). Follow the label or your clinician’s direction. Nutrition by Erin

Practical note

If you’re already on a prescribed treatment for H. pylori or gastritis (PPI, H2 blocker, antibiotics), mention DGL to your clinician before starting it — some studies have tested DGL added to standard therapy rather than replacing it. ScienceDirect

Scientific Evidence for Gastritis:

Double-blind crossover trial of deglycyrrhizinated liquorice in gastric ulcer (Gut journal) — one of the earlier controlled trials assessing DGL in gastric ulcer patients. (historic clinical evidence for ulcer healing / symptom improvement). Gut
Randomized clinical trial adding licorice to clarithromycin-based triple therapy for H. pylori (patients with positive urease test) — adding licorice increased eradication rates in that trial (reported in Elsevier / research publication). This supports a role as an adjunct for H. pylori-related disease. ScienceDirect ResearchGate
GutGard (standardized Glycyrrhiza glabra extract) randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study — GutGard root extract has been tested specifically against H. pylori and showed reduction in gastric H. pylori load in a randomized study. Wiley Online Library ScienceDirect
Systematic review on Glycyrrhiza glabra in peptic ulcer disease (2025) — recent review that pooled clinical and experimental data on licorice’s effects on gastric/duodenal ulcers; some trials show benefit while others are mixed — overall suggestive but not definitive evidence and heterogeneous methods. ScienceDirect
Multiple in-vitro and animal studies showing anti-H. pylori activity and mucosal protection (mechanistic support). These are useful supportive evidence but are not substitutes for large RCTs. ScienceDirect IJRAR

Summary on evidence quality: there are human trials showing benefit (some positive RCTs and adjunctive trials), plus stronger mechanistic and animal data. However, trials vary in size and quality; systematic reviews conclude evidence is promising but not uniformly conclusive — DGL is often used as an adjunct rather than a replacement for guideline treatments when H. pylori or severe disease is present. ScienceDirect Wiley Online Library

Specific Warnings for Gastritis:

Why the safety discussion matters

Whole licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which can cause a pseudo-aldosteronism syndrome (sodium retention, potassium loss → hypertension, oedema, hypokalemia, arrhythmias). That’s why DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is recommended to reduce those risks. MSD Manuals Bundesinstitut für Risikobewertung

Key warnings / who should avoid licorice (especially glycyrrhizin-containing products)

People with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease or those on diuretics or drugs that affect potassium should avoid glycyrrhizin-containing licorice (or use DGL only under medical supervision). Even moderate consumption of black licorice has caused severe problems in susceptible adults. GovDelivery Clark Howard
Pregnancy: avoid licorice (glycyrrhizin exposure in pregnancy has been associated with adverse fetal/child neurodevelopment outcomes in some studies). DGL is safer in terms of blood-pressure effects but pregnancy use should still be discussed with a clinician. Health NCCIH
Elderly and people >40: FDA-type advisories have highlighted that regular ingestion of black licorice (even candy) can trigger dangerous arrhythmias in older adults. National Law Review Clark Howard

Drug interactions

Licorice (glycyrrhizin) can interact with: warfarin and other anticoagulants, diuretics, ACE inhibitors, potassium supplements, cardiac glycosides (digoxin), corticosteroids (may potentiate effects), certain antihypertensives, and drugs that affect potassium levels — monitor closely and consult your prescriber. DGL reduces but does not eliminate all interaction risk. MSD Manuals Verywell Health

Safe-use tips

Prefer DGL for gastritis/ulcer support to reduce blood-pressure / potassium risk. NationalNutrition.ca
Don’t exceed recommended product dosing; follow label/clinician instructions. Regulatory bodies recommend limits on glycyrrhizin intake (some agencies suggest <100 mg/day glycyrrhizin for general safety from confectionery exposure). Bundesinstitut für Risikobewertung ScienceDirect
If you experience headache, edema, rapid weight gain, unusual weakness, palpitations, or muscle cramps, stop licorice and seek medical advice — these can be signs of hypokalemia or fluid retention. GovDelivery

Back to Gastritis

General Information (All Ailments)

Note: You are viewing ailment-specific information above. This section shows the general remedy information for all conditions.

What It Is

Licorice root comes from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, native to parts of Europe and Asia. It has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and ancient Greek and Egyptian healing. The root contains several bioactive compounds, most notably glycyrrhizin, which gives it both its characteristic sweet flavor and many of its pharmacological properties.

Licorice root can be consumed in various forms—such as teas, extracts, capsules, or tinctures—and is often found in herbal blends designed for digestive health, respiratory support, or adrenal balance.

How It Works

The key active compound, glycyrrhizin, has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant effects. It influences several physiological systems in the body:

Endocrine and Adrenal Support: Glycyrrhizin inhibits the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which breaks down cortisol. By slowing cortisol metabolism, licorice root can enhance and prolong the effects of this hormone, potentially helping with adrenal fatigue or chronic stress.
Anti-inflammatory and Immune Effects: The compound modulates immune responses and suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines. It can support conditions involving inflammation of the respiratory or digestive tract, such as sore throats, coughs, or gastritis.
Antiviral and Antimicrobial Properties: Research has shown licorice extract may inhibit the replication of certain viruses, including hepatitis C and herpes simplex virus. Its saponins and flavonoids contribute to this protective effect.
Digestive Protection: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a modified form where glycyrrhizin has been removed to reduce side effects. DGL supports mucous membrane healing, making it popular for soothing stomach ulcers, heartburn, or gastritis.

Why It’s Important

Licorice root holds importance as both a therapeutic and preventive botanical:

Adaptogenic-Like Benefits: It helps the body adapt to stress by supporting cortisol levels, improving energy, and reducing fatigue.
Respiratory Health: Traditionally used as an expectorant and demulcent, it soothes sore throats, eases coughs, and reduces irritation in the bronchial passages.
Digestive Wellness: It aids in the protection and repair of gastrointestinal tissues, which can benefit those with acid reflux or ulcers.
Liver and Skin Health: Licorice root’s antioxidant and detoxifying properties may support liver function and help manage skin conditions like eczema or acne.

Its broad range of uses makes it a cornerstone herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine.

Considerations

Despite its benefits, licorice root must be used carefully due to its potency:

Glycyrrhizin-Related Side Effects: Excessive intake of glycyrrhizin can lead to a condition called pseudoaldosteronism, characterized by sodium retention, potassium loss, high blood pressure, and swelling (edema).
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) as a Safer Option: DGL provides many of the digestive benefits without affecting mineral balance or blood pressure, making it preferable for long-term use.
Interactions and Contraindications: Licorice root can interact with diuretics, corticosteroids, antihypertensive drugs, and certain heart medications. It is not recommended for individuals with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart conditions unless supervised by a healthcare provider.
Duration of Use: Continuous use of glycyrrhizin-containing licorice for more than a few weeks is generally discouraged without medical guidance.
Pregnancy and Hormonal Effects: Licorice may affect hormone levels and is generally advised against during pregnancy due to potential risks to fetal development.

Helps with these conditions

Licorice Root is most effective for general wellness support with emerging research . The effectiveness varies by condition based on clinical evidence and user experiences.

Acid Reflux (GERD) 0% effective

Constipation 0% effective

Stomach Ulcers 0% effective

Asthma 0% effective

Eczema 0% effective

Tooth Decay 0% effective

Conditions

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Detailed Information by Condition

Acid Reflux (GERD)

0% effective

Mucosal-protective effect. Licorice contains flavonoids and other compounds that appear to stimulate mucus production and strengthen the protective mu...

0 votes Updated 1 month ago 8 studies cited

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