Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra and related species) has a long history of use for digestive ailments, including dyspepsia (indigestion). Traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and European herbal medicine have used licorice for gastrointestinal complaints. Modern scientific research has explored its potential benefits, focusing particularly on deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) extracts, which are modified to reduce glycyrrhizin (a component associated with side effects like hypertension).

Several clinical studies and reviews suggest that DGL may help alleviate symptoms of dyspepsia, such as bloating, discomfort, and nausea, by increasing mucous production and promoting healing of the stomach lining. A small number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies have found that DGL can reduce the severity of functional dyspepsia and even assist in healing minor gastric ulcers, which can present with similar symptoms.

However, while evidence exists supporting licorice’s efficacy in dyspepsia, the quality and quantity of studies are moderate. Most studies are small or have methodological limitations. Nonetheless, the mechanism—primarily mucosal protection rather than acid suppression—has scientific plausibility. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews generally conclude that DGL may offer benefit as an adjunctive therapy for dyspepsia, especially for people who do not tolerate conventional medications. Overall, the use of licorice for dyspepsia is supported by both tradition and some scientific evidence, but more robust clinical trials are needed for definitive recommendations.

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