DGL Licorice (Deglycyrrhizinated)

Botanicalgut soothingModerate dose evidence

Also known as: deglycyrrhizinated licorice, deglycyrrhizinised liquorice, DGL, Glycyrrhiza glabra extract (deglycyrrhizinated)

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DGL is licorice root extract from which most of the glycyrrhizin has been removed, typically to below 1 to 3 percent. Glycyrrhizin is the compound behind licorice's effects on blood pressure and potassium, so removing it allows the remaining flavonoids to be used at meaningful doses for digestive comfort. DGL is common in stomach-soothing chewables and capsules, often with slippery elm and marshmallow. Older double-blind trials examined DGL preparations in gastric complaints, and it has a long history in European practice.

Research summary

Flavonoids studied for supporting mucus secretion and mucosal blood flow in the stomach lining.

Dosage

Daily amounts, of extract.

Lowest studiedTypical rangeHighest studiedUpper limit
380 mg380–760 mg

380 to 760 mg of DGL, chewed or taken 20 minutes before meals, up to three times daily in traditional practice. Because glycyrrhizin is removed, the blood-pressure and potassium concerns of whole licorice are largely avoided; confirm glycyrrhizin content on the CoA.

Standardization: Glycyrrhizin ≤3% (often ≤1%)

Source material: root extract, deglycyrrhizinated

Format suitability

  • Capsule
  • Powder
  • Tablet
  • Softgel
  • Gummy
  • Liquid

Traditionally a chewable tablet; sweet licorice flavor.

Formulation notes

Residual glycyrrhizin should be tracked when combined with other licorice-containing ingredients.

Sources

  1. Double-blind trial of deglycyrrhizinated liquorice in gastric ulcer. (Engqvist A 1973)PubMed

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