Licorice is an herb which is found universally across much of Asia and Europe. It has a long history of use as a flavoring agent and a medicament. Licorice has been used as a medicinal supplement for treating various ailments including ulcers and GI tract ailments.DGL or Deglycyrrhizinated licorice is extracted from licorice root and the glycyrrhizin is removed. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice is now used because of the potential of glycyrrhizin in licorice to cause pseudo-aldosteronism.
Uses of Deglycyrrhizinated licorice as a soothing GI tract emulsion are ancient and have been found to heal ulcers and erosion of the GI tract. Ulcers are caused by a thinning of the mucous layer of the intestine which protects the tender linings of the GI tract from various corrosive enzymes and acids released by the alimentary tract during the process of digestion. DGL has been used for treating minor ulcers and reflux diseases.

Deglycyrrhizinated licorice inhibits the activity of enzymes that breakdown the Prostaglandin E. Prostaglandin E is associated with the production of mucus. NSAID along with Prostaglandin A also reduce Prostaglandin E which results in increased instances of Gastric disorders. A lower level of PGE leads to exposure of the delicate GI tract linings to the corrosive action of gastric juices which has a pH value less than 5. Thus by inhibiting the production of these two enzymes helps to maintain PGE levels in the body. Thus Licorice helps maintain the integrity of GI tract.

Licorice finds use as a flavoring agent and is used in candies and toffees. It is still used in sub therapeutic levels as a sweetening agent in lozenges and tobacco products. Licorice powder has been used as a refreshing mouthwash and Tooth powder to clean the teeth and maintain dental hygiene. The key component in licorice is glycyrrhizin. It is cidal to Streptococcus mutans a causative agent of cavities. This pathogen release acids which punch holes in the dentine. Thus removal of this pathogen reduces the chances of tooth decay and cavities.

Licorice also acts as a very good mucolytic and muco regulatory ingredient. Licorice makes the mucus thin and by its expectorant action helps to expel the mucus from the respiratory tract. Since the mucous is thin it leads to the better penetration of antibiotics in incidences of respiratory tract infections.

DGL is also used as a remedy for treating Canker Sores and mouth ulcers. DGL in the form of Lozenges helps to coat the Canker sores and provides relief from the pain and discomfort. Topical Licorice creams have also been tried with average results for treating eczema, psoriasis, and herpes.

Licorice is an herb used since long for GI tract ailments.

Article Source: Licorice- Humble Herb with Towering Benefits