Is Licorice Good for Acid Reflux? Benefits and Risks Explained

Acid reflux affects millions of people worldwide, causing uncomfortable symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. While conventional medications offer relief, many sufferers seek natural alternatives to manage their symptoms. licorice root, particularly in its deglycyrrhizinated form (DGL), has gained attention as a potential remedy. But does it actually help with acid reflux, and is it safe for everyone? This comprehensive guide explores the benefits and risks of using licorice for acid reflux management.

Understanding Acid Reflux

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach. This backflow happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle that normally prevents this reverse movement, weakens or relaxes inappropriately. The resulting irritation of the esophageal lining causes the burning sensation known as heartburn, along with other symptoms like regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and a sour taste in the mouth.

Chronic acid reflux, known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), affects approximately 20% of Americans. Left untreated, GERD can lead to complications including esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and even esophageal cancer in severe cases. While medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers effectively reduce acid production, they may cause side effects with long-term use, prompting many to explore natural alternatives.

Common Triggers of Acid Reflux

Several factors can trigger or worsen acid reflux symptoms. Dietary triggers often include spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomato-based products, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty or fried foods. Lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, stress, and eating large meals (especially before bedtime) can also exacerbate symptoms. Understanding your personal triggers is crucial for managing acid reflux effectively.

Licorice Root: A Traditional Remedy

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years across various cultures. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Chinese, and Indian Ayurvedic practitioners all valued licorice for its medicinal properties. Historically, it was used to treat respiratory conditions, digestive issues, and inflammatory disorders.

The root contains numerous bioactive compounds, including glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and various polyphenols. These compounds contribute to licorice's anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and mucosal-protective properties. In modern herbal medicine, licorice is primarily used for digestive complaints, respiratory conditions, and adrenal support.

Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)

When discussing licorice for acid reflux, it's important to distinguish between regular licorice and deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL). DGL is a specially processed form of licorice with the compound glycyrrhizin removed. This processing is significant because glycyrrhizin, while having some medicinal properties, can cause serious side effects including high blood pressure, potassium depletion, and fluid retention when consumed regularly.

DGL retains many of the beneficial compounds in licorice while eliminating most of the risks associated with glycyrrhizin. For this reason, DGL is the preferred form of licorice for treating digestive issues, including acid reflux. It's available in various forms, including chewable tablets, capsules, powders, and teas.

How Licorice May Help with Acid Reflux

Licorice, particularly DGL, may help manage acid reflux through several mechanisms. First, it appears to stimulate the production of mucin, a key component of the protective mucus layer that shields the esophageal and stomach lining from acid damage. By enhancing this natural barrier, DGL may reduce irritation and inflammation caused by stomach acid exposure.

Additionally, licorice has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe irritated esophageal tissue. Some research suggests it may also help balance stomach acid production without completely suppressing it (unlike some medications), allowing for proper digestion while reducing excessive acid that contributes to reflux symptoms.

Scientific Evidence for Licorice and Acid Reflux

While traditional use and anecdotal evidence suggest benefits, what does the scientific research actually say about licorice for acid reflux? The evidence is promising but still limited compared to conventional treatments.

Several small studies have investigated DGL's effects on various digestive conditions. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that a combination of DGL and other herbs was effective in reducing symptoms of indigestion. Another study in the journal Gut showed that DGL helped protect against aspirin-induced gastric damage, suggesting its protective effects on the digestive tract lining.

Research Limitations

Despite these promising findings, research specifically on DGL for acid reflux is somewhat limited. Many studies use combination products containing multiple herbs, making it difficult to isolate licorice's specific effects. Additionally, most studies have been relatively small and short-term, leaving questions about long-term efficacy and safety.

More comprehensive clinical trials are needed to definitively establish DGL's effectiveness for acid reflux compared to standard treatments. However, the existing evidence, combined with licorice's long history of traditional use and relatively good safety profile (in the DGL form), suggests it may be a reasonable option for some individuals with mild to moderate symptoms.

How to Use Licorice for Acid Reflux

If you're considering trying licorice for acid reflux, it's important to use it correctly for maximum benefit and safety. DGL is the recommended form for digestive issues, as it eliminates most of the risks associated with regular licorice while retaining the beneficial properties.

DGL is typically available as chewable tablets, which are often the preferred form for acid reflux. Chewing the tablets allows them to mix with saliva, which may enhance their protective effect on the esophageal lining. The standard dosage ranges from 200-400mg taken 15-20 minutes before meals and at bedtime, though this can vary based on the specific product and individual needs.

DIY Licorice Tea for Acid Reflux

For those who prefer a more natural approach, licorice tea can be a soothing option. However, regular consumption of licorice tea (not DGL) should be limited due to glycyrrhizin content. Here's a gut-friendly, low FODMAP licorice tea recipe that may help soothe acid reflux symptoms:

Soothing Licorice-Ginger Digestive Tea

A gentle, warming tea that combines the digestive benefits of licorice root with ginger's anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe acid reflux symptoms.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon DGL licorice powder or 1 DGL tea bag (preferred over regular licorice for safety)
• 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 small slice of lemon (optional, omit if citrus triggers your reflux)
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• 2 cups water

Instructions:

1. Bring water to a gentle simmer in a small pot.
2. Add the DGL licorice and ginger to the water.
3. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 5-10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and strain into a mug.
5. Add honey to taste if desired, and a small slice of lemon if tolerated.
6. Sip slowly, ideally 30 minutes before meals or when experiencing mild reflux symptoms.

Prep Time: 2 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Yield: 1-2 servings

Cuisine: Herbal Remedy

Integrating Licorice with Other Digestive Supports

For comprehensive digestive health, many find benefit in combining licorice with other gut-supporting supplements. For those with sensitive digestive systems, particularly those following a low FODMAP diet for IBS alongside acid reflux management, Casa de Sante offers certified low FODMAP digestive enzymes and probiotic supplements that complement the soothing effects of licorice. Their gut-friendly protein powders can also be a gentle option for those needing to increase protein intake without triggering reflux symptoms.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While DGL is generally considered safe for most people when used as directed, it's not without potential risks. Even with the glycyrrhizin removed, some individuals may experience side effects including allergic reactions, headaches, or digestive discomfort. Regular licorice (with glycyrrhizin) carries more significant risks and should not be used long-term without medical supervision.

Certain groups should be particularly cautious with licorice in any form. Pregnant women should avoid licorice as it may increase the risk of preterm labor and might affect fetal development. People with high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, or those taking certain medications should consult their healthcare provider before using even DGL licorice products.

Drug Interactions

Licorice, especially non-DGL forms, can interact with various medications. It may reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure medications, diuretics, and corticosteroids. It can also potentially interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, and hormone therapies. Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you're taking, including herbal remedies like licorice.

Alternatives to Licorice for Acid Reflux

If licorice isn't suitable for you, several other natural approaches may help manage acid reflux symptoms. Dietary modifications often provide significant relief for many people. This typically includes avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, not eating close to bedtime, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Other herbal remedies with some evidence for acid reflux include ginger, chamomile, marshmallow root, and slippery elm. Each works through different mechanisms, from soothing inflammation to creating a protective coating in the digestive tract. For those with food sensitivities contributing to their reflux, Casa de Sante's personalized meal plans can help identify and avoid trigger foods while ensuring nutritional adequacy.

Lifestyle Approaches

Beyond supplements and dietary changes, several lifestyle modifications can significantly impact acid reflux symptoms. Elevating the head of your bed by 6-8 inches helps prevent nighttime reflux by using gravity to keep stomach contents down. Stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga may also help, as stress can worsen reflux symptoms in many people.

Regular, moderate exercise supports healthy digestion and weight management, both important for reflux control. However, timing matters—intense exercise shortly after meals may worsen symptoms. Finding the right balance of activity that supports overall health without triggering reflux is key.

Conclusion: Is Licorice Right for Your Acid Reflux?

Licorice, particularly in its DGL form, shows promise as a complementary approach for managing acid reflux symptoms. Its potential to enhance the protective mucus layer in the digestive tract, combined with anti-inflammatory properties, makes it an interesting option for those seeking natural remedies. However, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution, and its effectiveness varies between individuals.

If you're considering licorice for acid reflux, start with DGL forms, follow recommended dosages, and monitor your response. As with any supplement, it's best used as part of a comprehensive approach that includes appropriate dietary and lifestyle modifications. Most importantly, consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medications.

While natural remedies like licorice can be valuable tools in managing acid reflux, they shouldn't replace proper medical evaluation and treatment, particularly for severe or persistent symptoms. With the right approach—which may include licorice as one component—most people can find significant relief from acid reflux and enjoy better digestive health.