Licorice Supplements
Licorice root is derived from licorice plants native to Asia and Europe. Its benefits and usage date back to Ancient Egypt. It was used to treat different ailments and as a drink flavoring agent. In traditional Chinese medicine, licorice root is also used to calm an upset stomach, reduce inflammation, and cure upper respiratory ailments. In modern times, licorice is widely used to treat cough, viral and bacterial infections, heartburn, and acid reflux.
Licorice root’s active ingredient is glycyrrhizin. This compound is responsible for licorice roots’ distinctive sweet flavor. Regarding its pharmacological benefits, glycyrrhizin acts as an antiulcer, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and antispasmodic. In addition, licorice helps the body to produce mucus which strengthens the stomach’s barrier against acids.
To use licorice root to cure GERD, steep the loose herbs in boiling water to make tea or add them to a beverage. Licorice capsules and supplements are equally effective in easing pain caused by GERD. In addition, experts suggest that a person suffering from symptoms of GERD may chew deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) with a dosage of 250 to 500 milligrams to support mucus-membrane in producing the sludge.
