For more information on licorice, click here. DGL does not have most of the adaptogenic (anti-stress) and hormonal properties of licorice, but is a much safer demulcent to soothe and protect mucous membranes.

What is DGL and why is it used?
Licorice is an extremely good demulcent, as it coats mucous membranes, while promoting the natural secretion of mucous to further soothe and protect. It can be used for many gastrointestinal disorders, and is particularly useful for mucous membrane irritation such as gastric, peptic, or mouth ulcers, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disorder), and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Prolonged use and/or high doses of licorice can lead to lowered potassium levels and increased blood pressure because of the constituent glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acid). DGL stands for deglycyrrhizinated licorice, or licorice in which the glycyrrhizin is removed during processing to eliminate the side-effects that may occur with licorice use. This is particularly beneficial in individuals already suffering from high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, and when longer-term use of licorice is required.

DGL and Ulcers
Taking licorice has been shown to protect the lining of the stomach and intestines from ulceration, both directly, and by stimulating the production of the body's own mucous. This protection prevents further injury by stomach acid or other irritating factors and gives the body a chance to heal. In the case of peptic ulcers, DGL has also been shown to inhibit the growth of H. pylori, the intestinal bacteria responsible for most peptic ulcers. It may also inhibit damaging gastric acid secretion. Gargling with DGL has been shown to relieve the pain of mouth ulcers as well.

DGL and IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome involves painful cramping, and often alternations of diarrhea and constipation. Multi-herbal preparations containing DGL and other demulcent herbs have been shown to significantly reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

DGL and GERD or Heartburn
Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) involves a malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter that allows the splashing of stomach acid up the esophagus, resulting in pain and inflammation (heart burn). Recent research has implicated H. pylori infection with many cases of GERD. DGL can be used to treat GERD as it soothes and protects the esophageal lining, and can fight any H. pylori infection. It may also inhibit gastric acid secretion, and thus reduce the acid available to splash up the esophagus. Through these effects, GDL helps to relieve pain immediately, and protect against future tissue damage by coating the tissues.

How can I take DGL?
DGL licorice is found as chewable tablets or solid extract. DGL must be mixed with an enzyme called amylase to "activate" it. Our bodies release the most amylase in our saliva (although some is released in our digestive tract), so chewable formulas may be preferable to get the full dose and to have it completely released early in the digestive tract. It should be taken 1 hour before, or 2 hours after meals (on an empty stomach).

Important Information
DGL licorice is deglycyrrhizinated and therefore does not alter blood pressure, kidney function or hormone levels.  It must not be taken with nitrofurantoin.