Licorice root
Also called: Glycyrrhiza glabra, DGL
A sweet root used to soothe the stomach lining. Its DGL form is gentle; whole licorice root has strong effects on blood pressure.
Commonly used for
- Heartburn and reflux (DGL)
- Soothing the stomach lining (DGL)
- Sore throat (as tea)
Found naturally in
- Licorice root tea
- Black licorice candy made with real licorice root
Label red flags
- Whole licorice taken daily without supervision
- Label doesn't say whether it's DGL or whole root
Check with a provider
- High blood pressure, heart disease, or kidney disease (whole root)
- Low potassium, or taking diuretics or digoxin (whole root)
- Pregnancy (avoid whole root)
Supplements that contain it
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Digestive tract
Your stomach and intestines absorb nutrients and hold most of your body's immune tissue, which makes the gut a common target in autoimmune disease.
Adrenal glands
These small glands on top of your kidneys make cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline, which manage energy, blood pressure, and your stress response.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.