Licorice DGL: Gut Lining Repair Strategy

If your stomach feels like it’s been through a bar fight every time you eat, you’re not alone. Digestive discomfort has quietly become a global epidemic. Ulcers, reflux, bloating, gas, and that oh-so-glamorous burning sensation after pizza—these aren’t just minor annoyances. They’re signals. Red flags. Sirens from your gut, begging for backup. And in the surprisingly heroic world of natural remedies, one compound has stepped up to the plate wearing a nerdy name but punching way above its weight: DGL, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice.

 

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Before we talk DGL, let’s set the scene. Your gut lining is more than just the inner wall of your digestive tube. It’s a living, breathing interface between you and the world—roughly 4,000 square feet of intestinal real estate, if you stretched it out. It’s responsible for absorbing nutrients, blocking pathogens, and managing trillions of bacteria with more drama than a K-drama finale. When this lining becomes compromised—a phenomenon called increased intestinal permeability or “leaky gut”—things get messy fast. We’re talking inflammation, autoimmune reactions, food sensitivities, and that slippery slope toward chronic disease.

 

So, what chips away at this barrier? Enter the usual suspects: NSAIDs like ibuprofen (your go-to hangover pill), chronic stress (thanks, modern life), processed food (hello, midnight snacks), and even spicy tomato sauces (yes, your favorite pasta night could be a culprit). These all erode the mucus layer and thin out the epithelial cells underneath, exposing your gut to more acid, bacteria, and toxins than it was designed to handle. And when the gut wall takes damage, it can’t just walk it off. It needs a strategy.

 

That’s where DGL comes in. Derived from licorice root, DGL is essentially licorice with the glycyrrhizin removed. Why remove glycyrrhizin? Because while it's biologically active, it can raise blood pressure and cause water retention. Not great if you're popping it daily. So, scientists stripped it out, leaving behind the gut-loving components that stimulate mucus production and protect the stomach lining without messing with your blood pressure. Think of it as licorice 2.0—smarter, safer, still packing heat.

 

DGL works by ramping up the body’s natural mucin production. Mucin is the protective gel secreted by your stomach lining—basically the gut’s version of bubble wrap. More mucin means more defense against acid, enzymes, and irritants. In a 2015 animal study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, researchers observed that DGL increased mucosal thickness in rats exposed to ethanol-induced gastric ulcers (n=48, 14-day duration). Not only did it promote faster healing, but it also enhanced the production of prostaglandins—compounds that trigger repair processes and regulate acid secretion.

 

You’re probably wondering, "Does it work for humans though?" Fair question. Human clinical trials are fewer, but some data is promising. One double-blind trial published in Gut (1978) compared DGL to cimetidine, a common antacid, in 40 patients with gastric ulcers. Both groups showed improvement, but the DGL group had fewer relapses three months post-treatment. That said, it’s not a miracle drug. You still need to avoid the gut-destroying habits that got you here in the first place.

 

So how do you take it? First, chew it—don’t swallow it whole. DGL needs to mix with saliva to activate its healing properties. Aim for 380–400 mg, 20 minutes before meals, two to three times daily. Don’t chase it with water. Let it linger. That’s right—this isn’t a supplement you take on the go. DGL is more like a slow dance with your gut lining, not a shotgun Vegas wedding.

 

If you’re using it for reflux or GERD, timing becomes critical. Take it before meals and again before bedtime. For ulcers, especially duodenal ulcers, stay consistent for at least 8–12 weeks. And if you're dealing with IBS or more general gut inflammation, DGL can be a gentle ally when other interventions (like elimination diets or probiotics) haven’t moved the needle. Some people even use it as part of a gut-repair stack with L-glutamine, marshmallow root, or zinc carnosine—just don’t play mad scientist without guidance.

 

Now, let’s pause for a reality check. DGL is not a cure-all. If you're taking corticosteroids, diuretics, or blood pressure meds, talk to your doctor. While the glycyrrhizin component is removed, there may still be minor interactions. Also, quality matters. Not all DGL is created equal. Look for third-party testing and avoid sugar-loaded tablets that feel more like candy than therapy.

 

And not everyone’s convinced. Some gastroenterologists remain skeptical, citing the lack of large-scale human trials and the general fuzziness around herbal supplement regulation. That’s fair. The NIH has called for more rigorous research on botanicals like DGL. Without consistent human data, it’s hard to issue blanket endorsements. But anecdotal evidence, historical use, and smaller trials point toward a clear pattern of benefit—especially when used as part of a broader gut health strategy.

 

Let’s also not ignore the emotional layer here. Chronic reflux isn’t just physical. It hijacks your sleep, ruins your meals, and adds this low-level anxiety to every bite of food. You start associating joy with discomfort. Dining out becomes risky. Late-night snacking becomes Russian roulette. It’s exhausting. And when the gut is inflamed, your brain isn’t far behind. The gut-brain axis—yes, it’s a real thing—means poor digestion can trigger low mood, irritability, and brain fog. So restoring the gut isn’t just about gas and bloating; it’s about feeling like yourself again.

 

So what can you do right now? First, eliminate the common irritants: NSAIDs, alcohol, ultra-processed foods, and stress (yes, easier said than done). Second, find a quality DGL supplement. Start with one chewable 20 minutes before meals. Observe your symptoms over a few weeks. Journal your progress. Third, support your mucosal layer with collagen, bone broth, or glutamine. Hydrate. Sleep. Your gut heals fastest when you're not running on fumes and caffeine.

 

Now, for a little history lesson—because licorice isn’t just some modern woo-woo health trend. It’s been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda for over 3,000 years. Ancient Egyptians considered it a cure-all. Even Hippocrates gave it a shoutout. Fast forward to today, and licorice has found fans among Hollywood detox junkies and wellness influencers alike. Of course, they’ll sell it with a green smoothie and a yoga mat, but behind the scenes, it’s DGL doing the heavy lifting.

 

How do you know it’s working? You may start noticing fewer symptoms after meals. Less bloating. Improved appetite. Better stool consistency. More energy. These aren’t just random perks—they’re signs your gut lining is repairing, your absorption is improving, and inflammation is dialing down. But track it. Don’t rely on vibes.

 

In the end, DGL isn’t the star of the show—it’s part of the cast. A supporting actor in a full-body production involving diet, stress, hormones, and sleep. But when cast right, it can deliver a standout performance. If your gut’s been sending up smoke signals, maybe it’s time to call in the licorice.

 

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement or treatment. DGL is not a substitute for prescription medication or professional medical diagnosis.