That burning feeling rising from the chest into the throat often shows up at the worst possible moment. After a calm dinner. In the middle of the night. Or right when life finally slows down.
For people dealing with acid reflux or GERD, heartburn can feel unpredictable and exhausting, which is why many start looking beyond medications and toward natural ways to soothe the digestive tract.
Licorice Root, especially in its DGL form, has quietly earned attention as a gentle, herbal option for managing acid reflux without suppressing stomach acid. But how does it actually work, and is it safe? This guide breaks it all down clearly, calmly, and accurately.
Acid Reflux and a Sensitive Esophagus
Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents flow backward into the esophagus. The lining of the esophagus is not built to handle repeated exposure to acid, which leads to symptoms like heartburn, throat irritation, chest discomfort, and a sour taste.
Common triggers include:
- Large meals
- Stress and poor digestion
- Weak lower esophageal sphincter function
- Hiatal hernia and diaphragm pressure
- Certain foods, drinks, or supplements
Many treatments focus on reducing stomach acid. While that approach helps some people, it does not address mucosal protection, tissue healing, or long-term digestive balance. This is where Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice enters the conversation.
What Is Licorice Root and What Makes DGL Different?
Licorice Root Explained
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) comes from the plant Glycyrrhiza glabra commonly known as licorice and is a standardized form commonly used for acid reflux and GERD. DGL is often formulated as chewable tablets marketed for reflux relief and heartburn support. Clinical and traditional use suggests DGL may soothe the esophageal lining, promote healing of the gastric mucosa, and provide symptomatic relief for occasional heartburn. Recommended terminology includes “deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL),” “acid reflux,” “GERD,” “chewable DGL tablets,” and “mucosal protection.” People with high blood pressure, kidney disease, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, or those taking medications such as diuretics, corticosteroids, digoxin, or potassium-altering drugs should consult a healthcare professional before using DGL.
Licorice (DGL) for Acid Reflux: What You Need to Know
What Does DGL Mean?
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice, commonly called DGL, is a form of licorice root extract. DGL is processed to remove most of the glycyrrhizin that can cause fluid retention and high blood pressure, while preserving compounds thought to support digestive health. In the Deglycyrrhizinated form, DGL is used as a dietary supplement to help manage acid reflux and GERD symptoms such as heartburn.
How DGL May Help
DGL is believed to increase mucus production and support the stomach lining and esophagus, which may reduce irritation from stomach acid. Unlike proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and other acid-suppressing drugs, DGL is not primarily an acid reducer but may provide symptom relief by protecting tissue and promoting healing of gastric and peptic ulcers.
Potential Benefits
- Reduce acid reflux symptoms and heartburn by supporting mucus and the mucosal barrier
- May help heal peptic ulcers and protect the stomach lining
- Often used as an adjunct to other treatments for gastroesophageal reflux disease
How to Use
DGL licorice supplements commonly come as chewable tablets or licorice root extract in powder or capsule form. Typical dosing is taken before meals to coat the esophagus and stomach; follow product labeling or a healthcare provider’s recommendation. Natural factors DGL brands and other licorice root supplements vary in strength and formulation.
Safety and Precautions
Because DGL has most glycyrrhizin removed, it is generally safer than whole licorice for long-term use, but it can still cause effects in some people. Those with high blood pressure or who are taking medications that affect potassium levels should consult a clinician before taking DGL. Combining DGL with proton pump inhibitors or PPIs like omeprazole is done by some patients, but discuss interactions and overall treatment strategy with your provider.
When to See a Doctor
If acid reflux or GERD symptoms persist despite using DGL or other measures, or if you have alarming signs such as difficulty swallowing, weight loss, or severe chest pain, seek medical evaluation. A healthcare professional can run appropriate tests to make sure nothing more serious is going on, and can advise on an appropriate medical approach.
Summary
Licorice (DGL) for acid reflux may provide symptom relief by supporting mucus production and protecting the stomach and esophagus rather than directly reducing acid production. It can be a useful complementary approach for digestive health, but people with certain health conditions or on medications should use it cautiously and under medical advice.
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