Best Form of Licorice Root: How to Choose
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has a long history in traditional medicine across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Modern supplemental interest centres on its active compounds β primarily glycyrrhizin (also called glycyrrhizic acid) and its derivative glycyrrhetinic acid β and their effects on digestion, respiratory health, and inflammation. However, the same compound responsible for many of licorice's benefits is also responsible for its most significant side effect. Knowing the forms helps you choose wisely.
Forms Compared
| Form | Glycyrrhizin present? | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Whole root (raw or dried) | Yes | Traditional use; imprecise dosing |
| Standardised extract (% glycyrrhizin) | Yes | Precise, research-relevant doses |
| DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) | Removed or minimal | GI support with reduced systemic risk |
| Licorice root tea | Yes, low concentration | Mild; not for therapeutic doses |
Bioavailability Differences
Glycyrrhizin is the primary bioactive marker in most licorice studies. After oral intake, it is hydrolysed by intestinal bacteria to glycyrrhetinic acid, which is then absorbed. This process means bioavailability depends partly on gut microbiota composition and varies between individuals.
Standardised extracts define glycyrrhizin content by percentage, allowing for more reproducible dosing. Clinical research on licorice root's effects on gastric and duodenal complaints used standardised preparations in relevant trials.
DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) has had the glycyrrhizin largely removed through a water extraction process. Because glycyrrhizin is responsible for the aldosterone-mimicking side effects of licorice β fluid retention, elevated blood pressure, and low potassium β DGL is substantially safer for long-term or high-dose use. The trade-off: some of licorice's systemic effects are tied to glycyrrhizin, so DGL focuses more specifically on local GI effects.
Cost Per Effective Dose
Whole-root products and teas are the cheapest per gram of product but offer the least precise dosing. Standardised extracts cost more per serving but deliver a defined content of active compounds. DGL products are often priced comparably to standardised extracts.
For the specific GI applications where DGL is used (gastric discomfort, support during antacid use), cost per serving of DGL chewable tablets or capsules is the relevant comparison.
Which Form for Which Goal?
- Digestive support (gastric lining, acid reflux): DGL is the preferred form. It provides the mucoadhesive and soothing GI benefits of licorice without the systemic risks associated with glycyrrhizin. Multiple small trials have assessed DGL for gastric and duodenal complaints (Borrelli & Izzo, 2000).
- Respiratory support or adrenal support: Standardised extract containing glycyrrhizin may be relevant, but use should be time-limited and doses carefully monitored β glycyrrhizin has a narrow margin between benefit and risk in susceptible individuals.
- Avoiding hormonal side effects: DGL unambiguously, or use a standardised extract for the shortest necessary period.
- Mild everyday use: Licorice root tea or low-dose raw root products carry lower risk due to naturally lower glycyrrhizin concentration.
What to Look For on the Label
- For standardised extracts: Look for a declared glycyrrhizin or glycyrrhizic acid percentage (commonly 25β30%).
- For DGL: Confirm that glycyrrhizin has been removed β look for "deglycyrrhizinated" or "DGL" prominently on the label with a very low or undetectable glycyrrhizin declaration.
- Duration guidance: Reputable licorice root products include dosage and duration guidance. Long-term use of glycyrrhizin-containing products without monitoring is not advisable.
OstroVit Licorice VEGE 90caps is available at maxfit.ee. Browse the digestive health category for more options.
References
Borrelli, F., & Izzo, A. A. (2000). The plant kingdom as a source of anti-ulcer remedies. Phytotherapy Research, 14(8), 581-591. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11113992/
Fukai, T., Marumo, A., Kaitou, K., Kanda, T., Terada, S., & Nomura, T. (2002). Anti-Helicobacter pylori flavonoids from licorice extract. Life Sciences, 71(12), 1449-1463. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12127020/
FAQ
What is the difference between licorice root and DGL?
DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) has had the glycyrrhizin removed. Glycyrrhizin is the compound linked to both some of licorice's benefits and its most significant side effects (raised blood pressure, fluid retention). DGL is safer for long-term GI use.
Can I take licorice root every day?
DGL is generally considered safe for extended use. Glycyrrhizin-containing licorice root, however, should not be taken continuously at therapeutic doses without monitoring β it can raise blood pressure and lower potassium levels with prolonged use.
Is licorice root safe for athletes?
For healthy athletes with normal blood pressure, short-term use of standardised licorice root is not expected to cause problems. Athletes in tested sports should check that their product does not contain any compounds on the prohibited list β though licorice root itself is not prohibited.
