Sometimes, the cause of the dull or sharp pains of a stomach ache may be clear, such as eating spoiled food, but sometimes the cause of stomach aches are a little more difficult to pinpoint. Stomach pain can be caused by bacterial infections, viruses, constipation, emotional distress or adverse food reactions. If you have a mild stomach ache, consuming licorice root may be able to provide relief. However, if you have a strong pain, vomiting or the pain does not dissipate over time, immediately seek out medical attention since you could have a serious condition, such as appendicitis or a hernia.
Licorice Active Constituents
The primary active constituents found in licorice include amino acids, polysaccharides, coumarins, flavonoids, formononetin and glycyrrhizin. While glycyrrhizin is believed by researchers to provide some health benefits, the compound contains a high toxicity rating. Because of this, many licorice remedies use deglycyrrhizinated licorice, or DGL, because it is generally considered safer for internal use.
Evidence
Proponents of licorice for stomach aches claim this herb soothes the stomach and digestive tract by enhancing the mucosal barrier. While solid scientific evidence regarding this use is unavailable, a preliminary study published in the June 1981 issue of the "European Journal of Pharmacology" found that deglycyrrhizinated licorice accelerated the secretion of mucus within the stomach of rats. While this finding has not been proven in humans, it does suggest DGL may help treat stomach and intestinal ailments. If your stomach ache is caused by a peptic ulcer, DGL may help improve the pain and other symptoms associated with this condition. The University of Maryland Medical Center outlines a study in which 100 participants with stomach ulcers were given licorice root extract for six weeks. At the conclusion of the study, 90 percent of participants experienced peptic ulcer improvement and ulcers in 22 of the participants disappeared. While this study is promising, other studies have found no beneficial effect of DGL on peptic ulcers.
Dosage Recommendations
Licorice may be consumed in tea or capsule form. To make licorice tea, place 1 to 5 g of dried licorice root into 8 oz. of boiling water. Allow the tea to steep for five to 10 minutes, strain and consume up to three times per day. The suggested dosage for a standardized licorice extract is 250 to 500 mg up to three times per day. Do not supplement with licorice for longer than seven days without the direct consent of your doctor due to the possibility of dangerous side effects.
Safety Considerations
While the use of deglycyrrhizinated licorice is generally considered safe, side effects such as high blood pressure, decreased sex drive in men and muscle pain have been reported. Before starting a licorice supplementation routine for stomach aches or any other use, talk with your doctor to ensure its safety and to obtain a dosage recommendation.
References
- Kids Health; Stomachaches; Larissa Hirsch, M.D.; September 2010
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Licorice; August 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Licorice; Steven D. Ehrlich; March 2010
- "European Journal of Pharmacology"; Deglycyrrhizinised Liquorice (DGL) and the Renewal of Rat Stomach Epithelium; Jan Van Marle, et al.; June 1981
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