Licorice Root (DGL)

Composed By Muhammad Aqeel Khan
Date 11/11/2025

The Soothing Herb for Gut Health, Skin, and Stress Relief

Introduction

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been used for millennia in traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda and herbal folk‑systems around the world. Its sweet root, soothing flavour and multi‑faceted uses made it a staple remedy for ailments of the stomach, throat and skin. Today, modern interest in natural solutions for digestion, inflammation, skin health and stress has helped revive licorice root’s popularity in wellness‑circles.

In its raw form, licorice contains a compound called glycyrrhizin a sweet triterpenoid which confers many of its characteristic effects but also some undesirable ones (notably fluid retention, raised blood pressure and low potassium). That is why a specially processed version called deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL licorice) has emerged: by removing most of the glycyrrhizin, DGL retains many of the beneficial properties while dramatically reducing risk of the mineralocorticoid side‑effects.

In a wellness culture that emphasises “beauty from within”, “natural remedies for gut health” and “holistic beauty and wellness”, licorice root (and particularly DGL) offers a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern science. In this article we’ll explore the science behind its active compounds, how it may support digestion, skin health, stress/hormonal balance, and how you can use it safely in a natural self‑care routine.

The Science Behind Licorice Root

Licorice root is rich in bioactive molecules notably glycyrrhizin (and its metabolite glycyrrhetinic acid), flavonoids such as liquiritin, liquiritigenin, isoliquiritigenin, and isoflavonoids like glabridin.

Glycyrrhizin: The major triterpenoid responsible for licorice’s sweetness and many of its systemic effects (e.g., influencing cortisol metabolism, sodium/potassium balance). But it also underlies the risk of hypertension, fluid retention and hypokalaemia when used long‑term or in large doses.
Flavonoids / isoflavonoids: Compounds such as glabridin, liquiritin and isoliquiritigenin show antioxidant, anti‑inflammatory, skin‑brightening and regulatory effects (e.g., tyrosinase inhibition, melanogenesis suppression) in laboratory and some clinical studies.
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL): By removing most of the glycyrrhizin, DGL leaves behind the flavonoid‑rich extract and avoids many of the mineralocorticoid side‑effects (though safety still requires caution). The extraction process therefore helps make licorice safer for regular wellness use.

Scientific research has demonstrated several mechanistic properties: anti‑inflammatory effects (via modulation of COX, reactive oxygen species, NF‑κB pathways) in the gut and skin. For example, a review on licorice’s anti‑inflammatory properties emphasised that while human trials are limited, pre‑clinical models show promising activity in intestinal disorders. Meanwhile, on the skin‑care front, glabridin has been shown to inhibit melanogenesis and tyrosinase activity in cultured cells and animal skin models.

In short: the science supports licorice root’s multifunctional potential as a digestive soothing herb, skin‑beautifier and adaptogenic support provided it is used appropriately.

Digestive Health Benefits

One of the most well‑documented uses of DGL licorice is for digestive support: soothing irritation of the gastric lining, helping protect against acid‑induced damage, supporting mucus production, and aiding in conditions of gastritis, ulcers and acid reflux (heartburn).

For example, human trials of DGL in gastric ulcers showed that in one study, patients who received DGL (760 mg three times daily) experienced a significantly greater reduction in ulcer size (78%) compared to placebo (34%). Additional mechanistic research suggests DGL increases mucus secretion, supports prostaglandin production (which protects mucosa) and enhances micro‑blood‑flow to the gastric lining. For acid reflux / GERD, early evidence indicates that DGL may help increase the protective mucus barrier for stomach and esophagus, potentially reducing irritation from acid exposure.

However and this is important many of the human trials are older, relatively small in size and not always of high quality. Some systematic reviews highlight that more rigorous, larger‑scale clinical trials are needed to establish effect size and dosage.

For wellness readers exploring licorice root for digestion, here are some practical suggestions:

Choose a reputable DGL licorice supplement (ensure glycyrrhizin is removed).
A common approach in studies: about 380 mg of DGL chewables before meals (or as directed by a practitioner).
Use as part of a broader gut‑wellness routine: reduce irritants (excess acid, NSAIDs, alcohol, caffeine), eat a nutrient‑rich diet, manage stress and get good sleep (all of which affect digestive health).
Monitor for symptom improvement (less burning, less gastric discomfort, better digestion).
If you suffer from serious conditions (ulcers, erosive gastritis, Barrett’s, H. pylori) consult a gastroenterologist and do not rely solely on supplements.

Thus, licorice root (DGL) stands out as one of the more research‑backed natural remedies for gut lining support especially when used wisely.

Skin and Anti‑Aging Properties

Beauty from within also extends to beauty on the skin. Licorice root (and its extracts) offer potential benefits for skin health: brightening, pigmentation modulation, soothing inflammation and supporting skin barrier repair.

Key findings:

Glabridin (from licorice extract) was shown in cell and animal studies to inhibit tyrosinase the enzyme responsible for melanin production and UVB‑induced pigmentation and erythema.
A recent review noted that glabridin showed anti‑melanogenesis activity at very low concentrations (0.1‑1.0 µg/mL) in cultured melanoma cells.
Licorice extract was shown to protect skin against oxidative stress injury, accelerate wound epithelisation and support skin barrier repair in pre‑clinical models.
Another study of licorice extract creams (10% concentration) found improvement in skin brightness and reduction of pigmented spots over 4 weeks in women aged 30‑50.

For skincare lovers looking for natural beauty tips and ingredient‑rich routines:

Look for topical formulations containing licorice root extract (often labelled “Glycyrrhiza glabra extract”, “glabridin”, “liquiritin”).
Use product types suited to your skin type (serums, creams) and consider complementing with sunscreen, antioxidants, hydration and barrier‑support ingredients.
Incorporating licorice extract in your anti‑aging skincare routine ties nicely with holistic wellness: nutrition + skin care + mindset.
Remember that while preliminary data are promising, human large‑scale trials are still modest licorice extract supplements or topicals should form part of a broader skin‑health strategy rather than a single “magic” fix.

Stress and Hormonal Balance

Herbal wellness increasingly emphasises the “mind‑body” element of beauty and health. In this regard, licorice root, especially in its DGL or flavonoid‑rich form, may support stress resilience and hormonal balance.

Flavonoid-rich-foods

Licorice has been considered an adaptogen in herbal medicine meaning it may help the body adapt to stress, regulate cortisol and support adrenal function. Some evidence suggests that glycyrrhizin (and licorice derivatives) inhibit 11β‑hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, thereby altering cortisol metabolism though this also underlies the side‑effect risks when glycyrrhizin is present in high amounts.

While human clinical trials are limited, the Phytotherapy Research literature and review articles note that licorice flavonoids may reduce fatigue, support endurance, and modulate stress responses but they caution about dose, safety and patient populations.

From a wellness and beauty mindset perspective:

Chronic stress and poor sleep show up on the skin dullness, breakouts, fine lines and feed digestive dysregulation.
Using licorice root (DGL) as part of an integrative routine (including meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, nutrient‑rich diet) may help reinforce the “inner beauty” side of radiant appearance clearer skin, better digestion, more calm.
Because of the hormone‑modulating potential, those with adrenal or cortisol dysfunction, hormone‑sensitive conditions or on corticosteroids should approach licorice root with professional guidance.

Additional Health Benefits

Beyond the digestive, skin and stress domains, licorice root shows promise in other wellness areas though again the science is still emerging.

Immune / anti‑viral / antimicrobial: Licorice root has long been used for respiratory issues (sore throat, coughs, bronchitis) and there is some laboratory evidence of antiviral activity (e.g., against helicobacter pylori, hepatitis C).

Hepatitis

Metabolic / liver support: Some preliminary work suggests licorice flavonoids might support lipid metabolism, antioxidant defences in the liver and metabolic health.
Skin repair / wound healing: As noted earlier, licorice extracts accelerate wound epithelisation, improve oxidative stress resilience in skin helpful for skin health beyond mere cosmetics.

While these benefits are interesting and potentially impactful in a holistic beauty & wellness context, they should not be taken as definitive clinical claims and one should integrate licorice root as part of a broader health‑foundation (diet, sleep, movement, stress‑management) rather than rely on it alone.

Safety, Side‑Effects and Precautions

No discussion of a botanical remedy is complete without safety considerations especially since licorice root has well‑documented risks when used improperly.

Because full (non‑deglycyrrhizinated) licorice contains glycyrrhizin, high or prolonged intake can cause hypertension, fluid retention, hypokalaemia, and imbalances of sodium/potassium.
DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) significantly reduces the glycyrrhizin content and therefore lowers these risks but “safer” does not mean “risk‑free”. Quality of product, dosage and individual health status still matter.
Licorice root may interact with medications (e.g., blood pressure medications, diuretics, corticosteroids) or conditions (heart disease, kidney disease, hypertension, hypokalaemia).
For skincare use: Topical licorice extracts are generally well tolerated, but always patch‑test any product; sensitivity/irritation is possible.
Dosage: Because standardised dosage‑guidelines are limited, follow manufacturer directions and preferably consult a naturopathic doctor, herbalist or your healthcare provider. Some research used 380 mg DGL before meals; other trials used 760 mg three times daily.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals: Many herbal resources recommend caution or avoidance of licorice supplements (especially those containing glycyrrhizin) due to hormone/cortisol/adrenal effects.
Long‑term safety: Some reviews note that there has been little large‑scale, long‑term human safety data on DGL for chronic conditions, so periodic review and monitoring is wise.

In summary: licorice root (and DGL) may be a valuable part of a beauty‑and‑wellness routine but only when used thoughtfully, with awareness of dosage, quality and individual context.

How to Use Licorice Root (DGL) in a Wellness Routine

Here are practical ways to incorporate licorice root (especially the DGL form) into your digestion‑, skin‑ and wellness‑oriented self‑care routine:

For digestion & gut comfort

Choose a reputable DGL supplement (chewable tablets, capsules or powder) with glycyrrhizin removed and clear labelling.
A possible approach: take a chewable DGL tablet (~380 mg) about 20 minutes before meals (especially if you experience occasional heartburn or gastric discomfort). Some older trials used higher doses under supervision (760 mg three times daily).
Pair with a gut‑friendly diet: plenty of fibre (leafy greens, berries, nuts), adequate hydration, reduced processed sugar and alcohol, mindful eating, and avoidance of long‑term NSAIDs when possible.
Combine with other soothing herbs if desired (e.g., slippery elm, marshmallow root) under guidance.
Monitor your symptoms (heartburn episodes, gastric comfort, bloating, fullness) and, if severe or persistent, seek medical evaluation.

For skin & beauty

Look for skincare products containing licorice root extract, glabridin, liquiritin or isoliquiritigenin. Use as part of your skincare routine (cleanser → serum → moisturiser → sun‑protection).
Focus on consistent overnight use (serum or cream) and daily sun protection (since UV accelerates pigmentation and skin aging).
Maintain “beauty foundations”: good sleep (7‑9 hours), regular movement, antioxidant‑rich diet (berries, nuts, leafy greens), hydration, and stress‑management (which all support skin appearance).
Consider using licorice extract as part of a minimalist “skinimalism” routine: fewer high‑quality products with evidence‑based ingredients (licorice extract among them) rather than an overly complex 10‑step regimen.

For stress and inner beauty

Incorporate licorice root (via DGL supplement) as part of a broader adaptogenic/self‑care protocol: ensure you also engage in mindfulness, yoga/stretching, deep breathing, adequate sleep, and balanced nutrition.
Reflect on inner‑beauty practices: gratitude journaling, positive self‑talk, social connection, spending time in nature. Remember: confidence and emotional well‑being markedly amplify how radiant you appear.
Recognise limits: licorice root is a supportive tool, not a substitute for lifestyle factors or, when necessary, medical treatment.

Conclusion

In our modern era of beauty and wellness, the concept of “natural beauty from within” has never been more compelling. The story of licorice root (and especially DGL licorice) is a perfect illustration of how an ancient herbal remedy can be thoughtfully integrated with scientific understanding, refined formulation and holistic self‑care.

From its traditional use for soothing the stomach and calming the throat, to contemporary evidence of its digestive‑health benefits, skin‑brightening properties, and stress‑regulating potential, licorice root offers a versatile and elegant bridge between inner health and outer radiance. When used wisely and safely with attention to dosage, product quality and individual context, it can be a valuable addition to your toolbox of beauty tips, self‑care routines, natural skincare ingredients, and holistic beauty and wellness practices.

Natural Skincare Products for a Young Woman

Remember: true radiance begins inside in the daily commitments to nourishment, rest, kindness to yourself, and consistent wellness habits. Licorice root doesn’t replace those foundations, it supports them.

As you explore the world of adaptogenic herbs, anti‑inflammatory botanicals and gut‑skin‑mind connections, licorice root stands out as a scientifically credible, traditionally revered and beautifully aligned ally. May it serve you well on your journey towards glowing skin, a calm mind and a body in balanced flow.

Gut–Skin Axis

References

“Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A Comprehensive Review on Its …” PMC.
“Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice)” PMC.
“Licorice Root: Usefulness and Safety | NCCIH.”
“The inhibitory effect of glabridin from licorice extracts on …” PubMed.
“Antioxidant and Anti‑Melanogenic Activities of Heat‑Treated Licorice …” PMC.
“Licorice in skin and cosmetics: Glycerolic Licorice Extracts as Active Cosmeceutical Ingredients.” PMC.
“Effectivity and Evaluation of Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra …” RJPT 2024.
Healthline: “Can You Use Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) to Treat Acid Reflux?”
Verywell Health: “DGL for Acid Reflux: Benefits, risks, and other options.”
“The Anti‑Inflammatory Properties of Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra).” PMC.

Licorice Root (DGL)