Can Licorice Help Gut Health + Stress? [AVOID IF THIS!]
- 10 hours ago
- 3 min read
Author's Bio: Ashley Oswald, RDN, IFNCP, CLT, LD
Do you know what this is? Licorice root.
It’s been used for over 3,000 years across many traditional medicine systems, including Chinese, Ayurvedic, Egyptian, and Greek medicine.
Today, it’s still widely used. Especially for digestive health and certain types of stress.
But here’s the important part. It’s not for everyone.
[Video Transcript Below Video - it is the same information]
How Licorice Can Help Gut Health
Licorice root is known for its ability to support the digestive system. One of the main ways it works is by helping maintain the mucous lining of the gut.
This lining acts as a protective barrier. It shields the stomach and intestines from irritation, inflammation, and damage.
When this barrier becomes weak, it can lead to issues like acid reflux, ulcers, and digestive discomfort.
This is one of the reasons licorice is often used to help gut health naturally.
The Gut and the Brain Connection
Your gut and brain are deeply connected through the vagus nerve.
This is why the gut is often called the “second brain.” What happens in your gut can affect your mood, energy, and stress levels.
Licorice is unique because it can support both. It may benefit digestion while also helping certain stress patterns in the body.
Licorice and Chronic Stress
Licorice does not help all types of stress. It’s most helpful for a specific kind called burnout-type stress.
This includes symptoms like:
Low energy in the morning
Afternoon fatigue
Heavy reliance on caffeine
Licorice contains a compound called glycyrrhizin. This compound helps support how the body uses cortisol, the main stress hormone, throughout the day.
Ideally, cortisol should be higher in the morning and gradually decrease by evening.
For people with low or “flat” cortisol levels, licorice may help restore a healthier rhythm.
When to Avoid Licorice
Licorice is not recommended if you feel constantly wired or anxious.
It can raise blood pressure and cause:
Sodium retention
Fluid retention
Potassium loss
These effects can make certain conditions worse, especially high blood pressure.
If this sounds like you, it’s better to avoid whole licorice root.
A Safer Option: DGL Licorice
If you still want the digestive benefits, there’s a safer option.
It’s called DGL, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice.
This form removes the compound that affects blood pressure, making it a better choice for many people.
5 Ways Licorice Supports Digestive Health
Licorice offers several gut health benefits, especially when it comes to protecting and healing the digestive tract.
Supports acid reflux relief - It helps strengthen the protective lining of the stomach.
Helps prevent and heal ulcers - Licorice is often used for both stomach and duodenal ulcers.
Reduces inflammation - It contains flavonoids, which may help calm inflammation in the gut lining.
Protects against H. pylori - This bacteria is linked to ulcers, and licorice may help reduce its impact.
Strengthens the intestinal lining - A healthy gut lining is essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption.
How to Take Licorice
Licorice can be consumed in different forms:
Tea made from the root
Tinctures
Supplements like DGL
You can also mix licorice tea with ginger and cinnamon for added flavor. It’s a simple way to include it in your routine.
Supporting Gut Health Holistically
Licorice is just one piece of the puzzle.
Gut health is influenced by many factors, including stress, nutrition, and lifestyle. Chronic stress, for example, can deplete key nutrients like magnesium and B vitamins.
Low levels of these nutrients can make stress worse. And stress, in turn, can worsen gut health.
It’s all connected.
Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha may also help the body manage stress more effectively. Better sleep and balanced nutrients can make a big difference over time.
Final Thoughts
Licorice root can be a powerful tool for digestive support. But it needs to be used in the right context.
If you’re dealing with burnout-type stress and digestive issues, it may be worth exploring.
But if your symptoms lean more toward anxiety or high blood pressure, a different approach may be better.
As always, the goal is to understand your body and choose what supports it best.
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