Licorice Root And Acid Reflux Disease

Licorice root, otherwise known as DGL is a natural herb that is used in many applications. It is also known as Yashti-Madhu, sweet root, Spanish licorice and Glycyrrhiza glabra. All forms are available widely on and off line. Licorice root is a natural supplement with expectorant properties. This can help with the release of damaged mucous lining caused by GERD which is why licorice root and acid reflux disease are sometimes mentioned together. With some properties of cortisone and estrogen, it also helps the body deal with stress.

Stress has not been shown to actually cause acid reflux, but it does typically heighten the symptoms to an extent. On the other hand, studies have shown that relaxation or stress relieving drugs, vitamins or minerals can significantly decrease the intensity of the symptoms.
By process, since licorice root helps us deal with stress, it tends to keep the body in a more relaxed state. This lessens the effects of GERD.

Licorice root is chemically known as deglycyrrhizinated licorice or DGL. Most of it is produced in Greece, Turkey and Asia. It has been used for centuries as a folk treatment for many disorders including acid reflux disease. Many users say that it is pleasant to take as it has a naturally pleasing flavor. This makes DGL a favorite of many sufferes looking for relief from their symptoms.

Licorice root as an acid reflux disease remedy is not used as a cure, but as a pain reliever. Regular dosing of licorice is said to lessen the pain of GERD symptoms during flare ups. So by default, it is a preventive measure as well. Patients who use licorice root report that usually once a day is sufficient, but twice daily might be called for in severe cases. Licorice root is not normally used in cases where there is already severe damage to the esophagus lining. It is more widely used in sufferers with mild symptoms like heartburn and indigestion.

The important thing to know here is that using licorice root, with it's natural properties, is a good way to lessen the effects of GERD before they occur. DGL seems to have some effect on gastric acid production as well since it is widely used in the treatment of some types of stomach ulcers. In Japan, physicians have prescribed a man-made form of licorice to treat ulcer patients. While this treatment is not available in the USA, it has had some profound results in Japan.

A study was done on 100 patients that had not improved with conventional treatments. These patients were given the synthetic licorice for 6 weeks. Of these, 90 percent showed a pointed improvement. In 22 cases, the ulcers disappeared completely.

So even as a folk remedy or in a synthetic form, DGL or licorice root is shown to be effective as a pain reliever for GERD symptoms, as an effective preventive therapy and as an acid production reducer. All of these are good omens for the GERD sufferer.

As always, you should consult your physician before starting on a regimen of licorice root in any form. Some allergic reactions have been reported as well. So, to be safe, talk to your doctor to find out if a licorice root - acid reflux disease remedy is right for you.

About The Author-- Get the latest on acid reflux disease by visiting http://www.acidrefluxillness.com - a website that offers information and articles on acid reflux symptoms and treatments as well as little known facts about acid reflux disease.

Article Source: Articles island - Free article submission and free reprint articles