Licorice root extract
Mechanism of action
It exerts anti-H. pylori activity by inhibiting protein synthesis, DNA Gyrase, and dihydrofolate reductase17. It also interrupts the inflammatory cascade18 and possesses antioxidant properties¹⁹.
Benefits
Indigestion
Among various gastrointestinal disorders, functional dyspepsia also known as indigestion is one of the most common clinical conditions among the general population. The general symptoms include upper abdominal fullness, epigastric pain, belching, bloating, early satiety, nausea, vomiting, regurgitation, heartburn, and loss of appetite. Oral licorice might improve symptoms of dyspepsia when used in combination with other ingredients.
Meanwhile, a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study showed that deglycyrrhizinated licorice, DGL (GutGard®) helps relieve occasional indigestion²⁰. In the study, the subjects received a specified dose of GutGard® for 15 and 30 days, and the severity of the complaint and quality of life significantly improved compared to the placebo group.
Management of H. pylori
Most people with H. pylori develop chronic gastritis with no symptoms. H. pylori can also cause painful ulcers and gastric cancers3. DGL has also been shown to successfully manage H. pylori. In a 2013 randomised study, participants with H. pylori infection received GutGard® supplementation once daily for 60 days. They are tested before and after supplementation using a stool antigen test (HpSA), and 13C-urea breath test. The result shows promising results over the placebo group whereby participants with GutGard® supplementation tested negative for H. pylori over the placebo group²¹.
Recommended dosage
Licorice extract has been tested in several studies over the years with typical dosages from 100mg up to 1000mg in 1-3 divided dosages for 2-24 weeks. DGL (GutGard®) 150mg either in a separate dose or a single dose for 30 days up to 60 days²⁰,²².