- Our Top Picks for DGL Supplements
- Comparison Table
- 1. Natural Factors DGL Licorice 400 mg, Digestive Support — Best Overall
- 2. Vital Nutrients DGL Powder — Best Powder / Best Value
- 3. Nutricost DGL Extract Capsules — Best Budget Capsule
- 4. NaturesPlus Herbal Actives Licorice (DGL) 500 mg — Best for Standardized Potency
- 5. Designs for Health DGL Synergy 500 mg Chewables — Best Practitioner-Grade Chewable
- 6. Swanson High Potency DGL 700 mg — Best High-Potency Single Capsule
- Evidence-Based Ingredients
- What Are DGL Supplements?
- Common Signs You May Need DGL Support
- Key Ingredients to Look For
- How to Choose
- Who May Benefit
- Safety and Side Effects
- What Results Can You Expect?
- Lifestyle Tips
- FAQ
- Final Thoughts
DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is one of the most searched-for natural options for occasional heartburn, indigestion, and a sensitive stomach lining. Most conventional licorice contains glycyrrhizin, a compound linked to blood pressure and potassium concerns when used long-term.
DGL removes most of that compound, so people can get the gut-soothing benefit of licorice root without the same risk profile.
This guide compares six well-reviewed DGL supplements across chewables, capsules, and powder, so you can match the form, dose, and price per serving to what actually fits your routine.
Our Top Picks for DGL Supplements
Best Overall: Natural Factors DGL Licorice 400 mg, Digestive Support, 180 Chewable Tabs — 8,000+ verified ratings and fast, within-20-minute relief make it the most trusted DGL chewable.
Best Powder / Best Value: Vital Nutrients DGL Powder, 120g — Sugar-free powder delivers roughly 400 servings, the lowest cost per dose of any option here.
Best Budget Capsule: Nutricost DGL Extract, 120 Capsules — 5,000 mg-equivalent 10:1 extract in an affordable, NSF-certified vegan capsule.
Best for Standardized Potency: NaturesPlus Herbal Actives Licorice (DGL) 500 mg, Pack of 2 — Standardized to under 2% glycyrrhizin for consistent, predictable strength in every capsule.
Best Practitioner-Grade Chewable: Designs for Health DGL Synergy 500 mg Chewables — Adds glycine and calcium to DGL in a pleasant-tasting, practitioner-trusted tablet.
Best High-Potency Single Capsule: Swanson High Potency DGL 700 mg — A 700 mg dose with under 3% glycyrrhizinic acid for simple, confident daily use.
Comparison Table
| Rank | Product | Form | Price/Serving | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Natural Factors DGL Chewable 400mg | Chewable Tablet | $0.12 | Anyone wanting the most-reviewed, fastest-acting chewable DGL |
| 2 | Vital Nutrients DGL Powder | Powder | $0.09 | Buyers who want the lowest cost per dose and flexible dosing |
| 3 | Nutricost DGL Extract Capsules | Capsule | $0.12 | Budget shoppers wanting high-strength DGL in an unflavored capsule |
| 4 | NaturesPlus Herbal Actives Licorice 500mg | Capsule | $0.22 | Users who want a tightly standardized, predictable glycyrrhizin level |
| 5 | Designs for Health DGL Synergy Chewable | Chewable Tablet | $0.93 | Practitioner-referred users wanting DGL plus glycine and calcium |
| 6 | Swanson High Potency DGL 700mg | Capsule | $0.12 | Those wanting a single, no-frills high-potency capsule before meals |
1. Natural Factors DGL Licorice 400 mg, Digestive Support — Best Overall
With over 8,000 ratings, this is the most reviewed DGL chewable on the market, and reviewers consistently point to fast, noticeable relief.
Key Specs
- Active ingredient + form: Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Extract 10:1, chewable tablet
- Dose per serving: 400 mg (1 tablet)
- Certifications: Non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan/vegetarian
- Third-party tested: Yes (ISURA, tested for 800+ contaminants)
- Servings per container: 180
Key Benefits
This chewable is formulated to support the natural mucosal lining of the stomach and intestinal wall, which many users find helpful for occasional heartburn and general digestive discomfort. Because it’s chewed rather than swallowed whole, it mixes with saliva quickly, which is part of why reviewers report noticing effects within about 20 minutes.
Key Ingredients
- Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Extract 10:1 (400 mg): Coats and soothes irritated stomach and esophageal tissue while glycyrrhizin content is minimized.
- Anise Seed Powder (55 mg): Traditional carminative used to ease mild bloating and support a more comfortable digestive process.
- Stevia Leaf Powder (2.6 mg): Natural, sugar-free sweetener that keeps the tablet palatable without added sugar.
Pros
- Largest verified review base of any product in this list (8,000+ ratings)
- Third-party tested by ISURA for 800+ contaminants
- Free of dairy, sugar, wheat, gluten, soy, and other major allergens
- Family-owned manufacturer with 60+ years in operation
Cons
- Contains xylitol, which a subset of users find hard to tolerate
- Licorice flavor is polarizing — not everyone enjoys the taste
- Chewable texture is firmer than some competing tablets
Best Suited For
Adults who want the most widely reviewed and fastest-acting DGL chewable for occasional heartburn, GERD-related discomfort, or general stomach lining support.
Usage Recommendations
Chew 1 tablet 1–3 times daily, about 20 minutes before meals, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Customer Feedback
Reviewers frequently highlight how quickly this chewable works, often noting relief from acid reflux, GERD symptoms, and heartburn within about 20 minutes of chewing. Many say it soothes bloating and general stomach discomfort, and several long-term users credit it with helping their ulcers heal and reducing their reliance on antacids or prescription reflux medication.
The main complaint centers on taste — the licorice flavor is polarizing, and some buyers find it too strong. Because the tablets contain xylitol, a small number of users report gas or digestive upset, and a few reviewers mention heart palpitations, a known effect tied to licorice’s impact on potassium levels.
Summary: With the largest review base and fastest reported relief time in this comparison, Natural Factors DGL earns its spot as the best overall pick for everyday digestive comfort.
2. Vital Nutrients DGL Powder — Best Powder / Best Value
At roughly 400 servings per container, this powder works out to the lowest cost per dose of any product in this comparison, without sacrificing purity.
Key Specs
- Active ingredient + form: Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Powder, glycyrrhizin reduced to below 0.6%
- Dose per serving: 300 mg (1/8 teaspoon)
- Certifications: Non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, vegan, hypoallergenic
- Third-party tested: Yes (independent lab testing of raw ingredients and finished product)
- Servings per container: ~400
Key Benefits
This powder is designed to soothe and support the GI mucus membrane and may help promote regular bowel movements. Because it’s a fine, unflavored-to-mild powder rather than a capsule or chewable, dosing is fully flexible — users can adjust the amount per serving and mix it into water, juice, or food.
Key Ingredients
- Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Powder (300 mg per 1/8 tsp): Processed to reduce glycyrrhizin below 0.6%, supporting gastric mucosa without the blood-pressure concerns of whole licorice.
Pros
- Lowest price per serving in this comparison
- No fillers, binders, coatings, or artificial colors
- Flexible dosing — easy to increase or decrease per serving
- Trusted by healthcare practitioners for 30+ years
Cons
- Higher upfront price than capsules, even though cost per serving is lower
- Powder format requires mixing, which is less convenient than grab-and-go capsules
- Some users report a strong taste when taken undiluted
Best Suited For
Anyone who wants the lowest cost per dose, prefers flexible dosing, or has difficulty swallowing capsules and tablets.
Usage Recommendations
Mix 1/8 teaspoon (300 mg) into water or juice, typically before meals, or as directed by a healthcare provider.
Customer Feedback
Users often describe this powder as effective for acid reflux and gastritis, with several noting a pleasant, naturally sweet taste that mixes easily into water or juice. Many like that the formula skips added sugar and unnecessary fillers, and long-time users say a single container lasts for months even with regular use, reinforcing its value.
A smaller group finds the upfront price steep compared to capsule alternatives, and a few describe the taste as unpleasantly strong on its own. Because effects build gradually for some users, reviewers note it can take longer to notice a difference than with chewables, so it may suit occasional rather than urgent use.
Summary: Vital Nutrients DGL Powder delivers the lowest cost per serving in this lineup along with a clean, additive-free formula — ideal for anyone who wants flexible dosing and long-term value.
3. Nutricost DGL Extract Capsules — Best Budget Capsule
Nutricost delivers a high-potency 10:1 extract — equivalent to 5,000 mg of DGL per serving — in an affordable, unflavored capsule.
Key Specs
- Active ingredient + form: Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Extract 10:1, capsule (500 mg extract, equivalent to 5,000 mg DGL)
- Dose per serving: 500 mg (10:1 extract, equivalent to 5,000 mg)
- Certifications: NSF-certified GMP-compliant facility, vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO
- Third-party tested: Yes (ISO-accredited independent labs)
- Servings per container: 120
Key Benefits
This capsule is built for people who want a high-strength dose without the sweeteners or added flavoring found in chewable DGL. The concentrated 10:1 extract means each capsule delivers a substantial dose of DGL in a compact, easy-to-swallow format.
Key Ingredients
- Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Extract 10:1 (500 mg, equivalent to 5,000 mg DGL): High-concentration extract delivering a potent dose per capsule.
Pros
- Lowest price per serving among all capsule options in this list
- No added sweeteners or flavoring
- Manufactured in an NSF-certified, GMP-compliant facility
- Third-party tested for purity and potency
Cons
- Lacks added soothing herbs like aloe or marshmallow root found in blended formulas
- A subset of reviewers describe the capsule’s internal taste as earthy rather than licorice-like when opened
Best Suited For
Budget-conscious buyers who want a high-strength, sugar-free DGL capsule for daily digestive support without added herbs or flavoring.
Usage Recommendations
Take 1 capsule (500 mg) up to three times daily, ideally 15–20 minutes before meals, or as directed by a healthcare provider.
Customer Feedback
Buyers commonly praise this capsule’s quality and describe it as a reliable natural alternative to standard antacids, with several noting a noticeable reduction in stomach burning after regular use. The unflavored capsule form appeals to those who dislike the taste of chewable DGL, and many report no unpleasant aftertaste when swallowing it whole.
A handful of reviewers who opened a capsule to taste the powder directly describe an earthy flavor rather than a licorice taste, which surprised some who expected a stronger licorice profile. A small number felt the product fell short of their expectations for potency compared to chewable versions.
Summary: Nutricost pairs a high-strength 5,000 mg-equivalent extract with the lowest capsule price per serving in this comparison, making it the clear pick for budget-focused buyers.
4. NaturesPlus Herbal Actives Licorice (DGL) 500 mg — Best for Standardized Potency
This capsule is standardized to under 2% (under 10 mg) glycyrrhizin, giving buyers a consistent, predictable dose from capsule to capsule.
Key Specs
- Active ingredient + form: Licorice (DGL), standardized <2% (<10 mg) glycyrrhizin, capsule
- Dose per serving: 500 mg
- Certifications: Hypoallergenic, gluten-free, vegetarian/vegan, cGMP-compliant, FDA and NSF-registered facility
- Third-party tested: Facility is cGMP-compliant and FDA/NSF-registered; third-party lab testing isn’t specified on the label
- Servings per container: 120 (Pack of 2, 60 servings each)
Key Benefits
The standardized glycyrrhizin level is this product’s main differentiator — rather than a general extract, each capsule is held to a specific upper limit, which appeals to buyers who want predictability alongside the general stomach-soothing and mucosal-support benefits DGL is known for.
Key Ingredients
- Licorice (DGL) standardized <2% glycyrrhizin (500 mg): Consistent, controlled glycyrrhizin content aimed at safety and predictable potency.
Pros
- Standardized glycyrrhizin content for consistent potency and safety
- Free of common allergens (wheat, soy, milk, yeast, corn)
- No high-fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners
- Long-established herbal supplement brand
Cons
- Highest price per serving among the capsule options in this list
- Taste is polarizing if the capsule is opened rather than swallowed whole
- A small number of long-term users report a past formulation change affecting taste
Best Suited For
Buyers who specifically want a standardized, predictable glycyrrhizin level for safety reasons, and who don’t mind paying more per serving for that consistency.
Usage Recommendations
Take 1 capsule before meals, or 2 capsules 15–20 minutes before eating for more intensive support, following label directions or a healthcare provider’s guidance.
Customer Feedback
Many long-term users say this capsule outperforms over-the-counter antacids for calming heartburn and acid reflux, with some crediting it for helping manage GERD or IBS-type symptoms without relying on daily medication. Reviewers also point to the standardized, gluten-free formula and appreciate that it contains no high-fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners.
Opinions on taste are split — some find it mild while others describe it as bitter, particularly if the capsule is opened rather than swallowed whole. A few reviewers mention mild headaches or stomach upset, and a small number of longtime users say a past formulation change slightly altered the taste and effect they were used to.
Summary: NaturesPlus stands out for its standardized, tightly controlled glycyrrhizin content — a strong choice for buyers who prioritize predictability and are comfortable paying more per serving for it.
5. Designs for Health DGL Synergy 500 mg Chewables — Best Practitioner-Grade Chewable
This chewable adds glycine and calcium alongside DGL, a formulation choice aimed at practitioners and patients who want a more complete gastric-support tablet.
Key Specs
- Active ingredient + form: Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) 500 mg + Glycine 200 mg + Calcium (from calcium glycerophosphate) 100 mg, chewable tablet
- Dose per serving: 500 mg DGL (2-tablet serving)
- Certifications: Non-GMO, gluten-free, vegetarian
- Third-party tested: Not specified on the label
- Servings per container: 45 (90 tablets, 2 per serving)
Key Benefits
Beyond DGL’s standard mucosal-support role, this formula adds glycine, an amino acid, and calcium, positioning it as a more complete dyspepsia-support tablet rather than a single-ingredient product. It’s also naturally sweetened and marketed as pleasant-tasting relative to plain licorice extract.
Key Ingredients
- Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (500 mg): Coats and soothes gastric and intestinal tissue with reduced glycyrrhizin content.
- Glycine (200 mg): Amino acid included to support the overall gastric-support formula.
- Calcium, from calcium glycerophosphate (100 mg): Added mineral support alongside the digestive blend.
Pros
- Added glycine and calcium not found in single-ingredient DGL products
- Practitioner-oriented brand frequently recommended by functional medicine professionals
- Non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly
- Sweetened without sugar (xylitol, mannitol, luo han guo)
Cons
- Highest price per serving of any product in this comparison
- Smallest serving count (45) relative to price paid
- Third-party testing isn’t specified on the label, unlike several competitors
Best Suited For
Buyers who were specifically referred to a practitioner-grade brand, or who want DGL combined with glycine and calcium rather than a single-ingredient formula.
Usage Recommendations
Chew 2 tablets as directed by a healthcare professional, typically before meals.
Customer Feedback
Reviewers frequently describe this chewable as effective for heartburn, indigestion, and general hyperacidity, with several calling it a reliable preventative option they take before symptoms flare up. One long-term user managing chronic GI issues noted that while the taste isn’t especially pleasant, it works well enough that flavor became a non-issue for her. Others mention it soothes throat inflammation and say they find it more effective than typical over-the-counter remedies.
A few reviewers report some initial stomach upset when starting the product, though one felt it was still worth it if it meant reducing daily reliance on PPIs over time. One reviewer was disappointed to find the formula contains xylitol and mannitol, sugar alcohols she felt were an odd choice for a gut-support supplement given research suggesting they can affect the gut microbiome.
Summary: Designs for Health DGL Synergy is the premium, practitioner-grade pick in this comparison — a strong fit if you want DGL plus glycine and calcium and don’t mind the higher cost per serving.
6. Swanson High Potency DGL 700 mg — Best High-Potency Single Capsule
At 700 mg per capsule with under 3% glycyrrhizinic acid, this is a straightforward, single-ingredient, high-potency option at the lowest total price in this comparison.
Key Specs
- Active ingredient + form: Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) Extract, capsule
- Dose per serving: 700 mg, under 3% glycyrrhizinic acid
- Certifications: GMP-certified facility
- Third-party tested: Yes (independent third-party labs for purity and potency)
- Servings per container: 90
Key Benefits
This capsule is positioned as a higher-potency option relative to standard DGL tablets, while keeping glycyrrhizinic acid under 3%. It’s a no-frills, single-ingredient product for people who want a straightforward capsule before meals.
Key Ingredients
- Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Extract (700 mg, <3% glycyrrhizinic acid): High-dose extract for concentrated digestive support.
Pros
- Lowest total price in this comparison ($11.09)
- Highest average star rating among all six products (4.5/5)
- GMP-certified facility with independent third-party purity and potency testing
- Simple, single-ingredient formula
Cons
- Capsule contains gelatin, so it is not vegan or vegetarian
- Fewer verified reviews (129) than most other products in this list
- A very small number of reviewers report notable digestive discomfort after use
Best Suited For
Buyers who want a simple, high-potency, single-ingredient DGL capsule at the lowest total price, and who don’t require a vegan/vegetarian capsule.
Usage Recommendations
Take 1 capsule with water before each meal, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Customer Feedback
Several reviewers say this capsule works quickly to calm heartburn and describe it as a gentler daily alternative to proton pump inhibitors. A few users managing IBS-C specifically credit it with reducing symptom flare-ups when taken before meals.
Feedback on tolerability is mixed: most report no issues, but a small number describe stomach upset after taking it, and one reviewer noted a doctor raised a general long-term safety question during a routine visit. As with any DGL product, short-term or as-needed use alongside medical guidance is the more cautious approach.
Summary: Swanson offers the highest potency-to-price ratio in this comparison and the strongest average rating, making it a solid no-frills pick for anyone comfortable with a gelatin capsule.
Evidence-Based Ingredients
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)
Licorice root has a long history of traditional use for soothing digestive discomfort. Mechanistic studies suggest DGL supports mucus production in the stomach lining, which may help protect against irritation. Clinical trial evidence specifically on DGL (as opposed to whole licorice) remains limited and mostly small-scale, so it’s best understood as a traditionally used, mechanistically plausible option rather than a clinically proven treatment.
Glycine
Glycine is an amino acid with some mechanistic research suggesting a role in supporting the gut lining and reducing inflammation markers. Evidence specific to glycine’s effect on digestive comfort when combined with DGL is limited, and most support for this ingredient comes from broader amino-acid research rather than DGL-specific trials.
Anise Seed
Anise has a long traditional use as a carminative — an herb believed to ease bloating and gas. Modern evidence is largely traditional-use and small mechanistic studies rather than large randomized controlled trials.
The ingredients in our top picks have traditional use and, for DGL specifically, some mechanistic and preliminary clinical support. They are not treatments for any digestive disease and should not replace medical care.
What Are DGL Supplements?
DGL supplements are made from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) that has had most of its glycyrrhizin removed. Glycyrrhizin is the compound in regular licorice most associated with raising blood pressure and lowering potassium with prolonged use. By removing it, DGL aims to retain licorice’s traditional soothing effect on the stomach and esophageal lining while reducing that specific risk.
Common Signs You May Need DGL Support
- Occasional heartburn or a burning sensation after meals
- Mild, occasional acid reflux
- General stomach lining irritation or sensitivity
- Bloating or discomfort tied to digestion rather than a diagnosed condition
- Preference for a gentler, non-drug option before reaching for antacids
Key Ingredients to Look For
- Deglycyrrhizinated licorice extract — the core active ingredient; look for a clearly stated mg amount per serving
- Standardized glycyrrhizin percentage — products stating “under 2%” or similar give a more predictable safety margin
- Glycine or calcium additions — optional extras some practitioner-grade formulas include
- Marshmallow root, slippery elm, or aloe vera — common additions in multi-herbal blends for broader soothing support
How to Choose
- Form and routine fit: Chewables act quickly by mixing with saliva; capsules are convenient and taste-free; powders offer the most flexible dosing.
- Dose transparency: Look for a clear DGL mg amount per serving rather than a vague “proprietary blend.”
- Third-party testing: Prioritize brands that explicitly state independent lab testing for purity and potency.
- Sugar and sweetener content: If taking DGL multiple times daily, check for added sugars or sugar alcohols like xylitol.
- Price per serving: Total bottle price can be misleading — compare cost per actual dose.
Who May Benefit
- Adults with occasional heartburn or mild acid reflux after meals
- People looking for a gentler alternative to daily antacid use
- Those who want general stomach lining support during more symptomatic periods
- Anyone advised by a healthcare provider to try a licorice-based digestive aid
Safety and Side Effects
DGL is generally well-tolerated, though minor stomach upset or changes in bowel habits can occur, especially with products containing sugar alcohols. While DGL removes most glycyrrhizin, people with high blood pressure, heart conditions, or kidney disease should still consult a clinician before use, since low-glycyrrhizin does not mean zero-glycyrrhizin. Anyone pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription medications — particularly diuretics, corticosteroids, digoxin, warfarin, or blood pressure medication — should ask a healthcare provider first.
What Results Can You Expect?
Chewable forms are often reported to bring noticeable relief within about 20 minutes, since chewing mixes DGL with saliva for a coating effect. Capsules and powders may take somewhat longer to notice. Most people use DGL situationally during flare-ups rather than as an ongoing daily supplement; if you find yourself needing it daily for more than a few weeks, that’s a signal to check in with a healthcare provider.
Lifestyle Tips
- Eat smaller meals and avoid lying down within 3 hours of eating
- Limit common triggers: alcohol, spicy or fatty foods, chocolate, coffee, and late-night snacks
- Take DGL 15–20 minutes before meals for the best chance of a soothing effect
- Space DGL at least 2 hours apart from medications and other supplements
- Track which foods or habits tend to trigger symptoms so you can adjust proactively
FAQ
When is the best time to take DGL supplements?
Most labels recommend taking DGL 15–20 minutes before meals, and some people also take a dose at bedtime. Chewables are typically timed this way because chewing activates the soothing, saliva-mixed coating effect.
How long does it take DGL to work?
Chewable forms are often reported to bring relief within about 20 minutes. Capsules and powders may take somewhat longer, since they need to dissolve or be absorbed before their soothing effect begins.
Is DGL safe to take every day?
Many people use DGL for weeks at a time without issue, but daily long-term use should be discussed with a healthcare provider, especially if you have high blood pressure, heart, or kidney conditions.
What’s the difference between DGL and regular licorice root?
Regular licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound linked to raised blood pressure and lowered potassium with prolonged use. DGL has most of that compound removed while aiming to retain licorice’s traditional soothing effect on the stomach lining.
Can I take DGL if I’m pregnant or nursing?
DGL is not recommended without first checking with a healthcare provider if you’re pregnant or nursing, since safety data in these populations is limited.
Can DGL be taken alongside other digestive medications or supplements?
Generally yes, but it’s best to space DGL at least 2 hours apart from other medications and supplements to avoid absorption interference, and to check with a healthcare provider about any specific drug interactions — particularly with diuretics, corticosteroids, digoxin, warfarin, or blood pressure medication.
Final Thoughts
For most people, Natural Factors DGL Licorice 400 mg is the best overall pick. Its 8,000+ review base and consistently fast reported relief make it the safest first choice for occasional heartburn and stomach lining support.
If cost per dose matters most, Vital Nutrients DGL Powder is the better fit — roughly 400 servings at the lowest price per dose in this comparison, with fully flexible dosing.
Anyone with high blood pressure, heart or kidney conditions, or who is pregnant or nursing should talk to a healthcare provider before starting any DGL supplement, rather than choosing based on price or reviews alone.