A persistent burning sensation in your chest, a chronic cough that won’t quit, or the suffocating feeling of silent reflux eroding your throat—these are the hallmarks of a digestive system screaming for help, not just another dose of acid-suppressing medication. The right DGL supplement acts as a targeted soothing agent, coating the esophageal and stomach lining to create a protective barrier against irritation, a fundamentally different approach than simply neutralizing or blocking acid production.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind WellFizz. My deep-dive research into this category has focused on dissecting the clinical data behind deglycyrrhizinated licorice, analyzing glycyrrhizin content percentages, and cross-referencing user-reported outcomes for GERD, gastritis, and general digestive comfort.
This guide cuts through the noise to find the most effective formulations, balancing potency, purity of ingredients, and real-world user feedback. Here is my curated list of the absolute best dgl supplement options available to help you soothe your gut and reclaim your comfort.
How To Choose The Best DGL Supplement
Picking the right DGL supplement is less about brand loyalty and more about matching the delivery form and ingredient purity to your specific digestive issue. The core mechanism is the same—a specially processed licorice root extract that soothes mucous membranes—but the nuances in formulation determine how effectively it works for you.
Glycyrrhizin Content and Blood Pressure Safety
The “DG” in DGL stands for deglycyrrhizinated, meaning the compound glycyrrhizin—which can raise blood pressure and cause potassium loss—has been removed. Any legitimate DGL supplement will contain less than 1% glycyrrhizin. This is the single most critical non-negotiable spec: if a product does not explicitly state it is deglycyrrhizinated, it is not a DGL product and carries real cardiovascular risks for daily use. Himalaya’s organic licorice product in this guide is not a DGL, which is a crucial distinction for buyers monitoring their blood pressure.
Delivery Form: Chewable vs. Capsule
DGL works best when it physically coats the esophageal and stomach lining. Chewable tablets or lozenges that dissolve slowly in the mouth allow the active compounds to mix with saliva and coat the entire upper digestive tract as you swallow. Capsules, while convenient for basic digestion support, bypass the oral cavity and esophagus, delivering the extract directly to the stomach. For conditions like GERD, silent reflux, or esophageal irritation, chewable forms are far more effective. For general gastritis or ulcer support, capsules can still be useful but are a secondary choice.
Base Ingredients and Additives
Many DGL chewables use fructose, sorbitol, or other sweeteners to mask the natural licorice taste. For individuals with fructose malabsorption, IBS, or sugar sensitivities, a fructose-free formula is essential to avoid triggering the very digestive distress you are trying to treat. Look for products that explicitly state “no sugar,” “fructose-free,” or use minimal natural flavoring. Also, consider the presence of clinically studied extracts like GutGard, which standardizes the key active compound (glabridin) for more predictable effects.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Planetary Herbals DGL | Chewable Tablet | Severe GERD & Gastritis | 200 Tablets per Bottle | Amazon |
| Enzymatic Therapy DGL | Chewable Tablet | Fructose-Free Gut Healing | GutGard Extract Formula | Amazon |
| Nature’s Way DGL Ultra | Capsule | Convenient Daily Support | 75mg GutGard per Serving | Amazon |
| Integrative Therapeutics Rhizinate | Chewable Tablet | Fructose-Free GERD Relief | 100 Count, Sugar-Free | Amazon |
| Himalaya Organic Licorice | Capsule | Ayurvedic Bloating Relief | UsDA Organic, Non-DGL | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Planetary Herbals DGL Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice, 200 Tablets
With a massive 200-tablet count and a formulation that strips away glycyrrhizinic and glycyrrhetinic acids to protect blood pressure, this is the high-volume, high-purity choice for serious relief. Users with severe GERD and gastritis report significant improvements within days, often using 2 tablets before each meal and 2 before bed. The tablets dissolve slowly in the mouth, providing prolonged contact with the esophageal lining for maximum soothing effect.
Planetary Formulas has been a staple in the natural health space for decades, and this product reflects their clinical focus. The ingredients list is minimal—no artificial sweeteners, sugars, or fillers—just DGL extract in a chewable base. This makes it a safe bet for those with multiple food sensitivities or fructose intolerance who need a clean formula they can trust daily.
The natural licorice flavor is present but described as mild and tolerable, especially compared to other brands that use heavy sweetening agents. The five-star reviews consistently highlight its ability to stop acid reflux episodes and heal stomach lining irritation without the side effects of proton pump inhibitors.
Why it’s great
- High count of 200 tablets provides long-term supply and value
- Minimal, filler-free ingredients list ideal for sensitive stomachs
- Clinically relevant dosing protocol supported by user success stories
Good to know
- Taste is tolerable but not sweet or candy-like
- Tablets are large and require time to dissolve fully in the mouth
2. Enzymatic Therapy DGL (Without Fructose), 100 Chewable Tablets
Enzymatic Therapy takes a dual-approach by combining standard DGL extract with GutGard, a clinically-studied form of deglycyrrhizinated licorice root extract standardized to 5% glabridin. This enhances the soothing potency while explicitly avoiding fructose, making it an ideal choice for anyone with sugar malabsorption or IBS who has reacted poorly to sweetened DGL tablets in the past.
Users report profound relief from heartburn, bloating, and even leaky gut symptoms when taking 2 tablets 30 minutes before high-protein or high-fat meals. A notable side benefit reported by multiple users is a reduction in post-menopausal hot flashes, adding an unexpected layer of value. The ability to eat trigger foods like pizza and spaghetti without the usual fallout is a recurring theme in the reviews.
The taste is described as good with a pleasant licorice flavor, and the availability in multiple flavor options is a bonus for those who dislike the classic taste. While one user reported adverse digestive reactions, the overwhelming majority have found this formula to be effective and well-tolerated, especially for weaning off prescription PPIs.
Why it’s great
- GutGard extract provides a standardized, high-potency active compound
- Fructose-free formulation prevents digestive upset in sensitive individuals
- Available in multiple flavors to avoid taste fatigue
Good to know
- Higher price point per tablet compared to some competitors
- A small minority of users report it does not work for their specific condition
3. Nature’s Way DGL Ultra Premium Extract, 90 Capsules
Nature’s Way delivers DGL in a capsule form using the same clinically-studied GutGard extract found in Enzymatic Therapy, standardized to 75mg per serving. This makes it an excellent option for those who cannot tolerate chewing strong-tasting tablets or need a more portable solution for use at work or on the go. The recommended serving is 1 capsule after food in the morning and evening.
Because capsules bypass the oral coating phase, this product is better suited for general gastritis support, stomach ulcer healing, or basic acid regulation rather than acute GERD or throat-focused relief. Users who pair it with aloe vera capsules and probiotics report a comprehensive healing protocol for silent reflux and gastrointestinal irritation. The plant-derived capsules are gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free.
The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many citing it as a gentle but effective aid for healing the stomach lining after a course of Prilosec or other PPIs. If you dislike the taste of licorice or simply want the convenience of a capsule you can swallow quickly without disruption, this is the strongest formulation in that format.
Why it’s great
- Convenient capsule format with no strong licorice taste
- Features GutGard for a standardized, clinically-researched dose
- Free of common allergens: gluten, dairy, soy, and artificial ingredients
Good to know
- Capsules are less effective for esophageal coating than chewable tablets
- Requires a morning and evening dose for consistent results
4. Integrative Therapeutics Rhizinate, Sugarless, 100-Count
Integrative Therapeutics Rhizinate stands out as a sugar-free, fructose-free DGL option specifically designed for individuals who need to avoid any sweeteners due to metabolic or digestive sensitivities. It contains less than 1% glycyrrhizin, ensuring safety for long-term use without the risk of hypertension. This formula is targeted at soothing occasional stomach discomfort and supporting protective factors in the digestive tract.
Users with severe GERD and chronic coughing fits caused by acid reflux have found this product life-changing, often pairing it with Mastic Gum for enhanced mucosal healing. One reviewer described it as resolving a throat ulcer and enabling consumption of trigger foods like chocolate and coffee within a week. The mild licorice taste is a major selling point—many users note it is one of the least unpleasant-tasting DGL options on the market, with the flavor dissipating quickly.
While the bottle contains 100 tablets, the dosing for severe cases (multiple tablets per meal) can deplete the supply faster than other options with higher counts. However, the clean ingredient profile and absence of all common allergens—gluten, soy, dairy, and artificial additives—make it a top-tier choice for purity-focused consumers.
Why it’s great
- Completely sugar-free and fructose-free for sensitive digestive systems
- Mild, fast-dissipating licorice taste that users find acceptable
- Effective for severe GERD, throat ulcers, and acid-induced coughing
Good to know
- Lower tablet count may require frequent repurchasing at high doses
- May need to be paired with other supplements for maximum effect
5. Himalaya Organic Licorice, 60 Day Supply (60 Caplets)
This entry is a critical distinction point: Himalaya’s Organic Licorice is explicitly not a DGL supplement. It is a full-spectrum, non-deglycyrrhizinated licorice root capsule that contains the whole herb, including glycyrrhizin. While it provides powerful digestive support for bloating, gas, and heartburn through an Ayurvedic lens, the presence of glycyrrhizin means it carries the risk of raising blood pressure, as confirmed by multiple user reviews describing blood pressure spikes.
Despite this risk, it has a place in this guide for the niche buyer who wants an organic, non-GMO, vegan whole-herb approach and does not have hypertension or cardiovascular concerns. The USDA Organic certification and the 90-year history of the Himalaya brand offer peace of mind regarding sourcing and quality. Users without blood pressure issues have found it highly effective for relieving indigestion and supporting immune function.
The reality is that this product is dangerous for anyone with elevated blood pressure, heart conditions, or those taking blood pressure medications. For the buyer who specifically wants a DGL supplement for safe daily use, this is the wrong product. But for the well-informed individual who understands the glycyrrhizin risk and wants a potent, non-manipulated whole-herb licorice for short-term or monitored use, it is the best organic option available.
Why it’s great
- UsDA Organic and sustainably sourced from a trusted herbal manufacturer
- Effective Ayurvedic formula for bloating, gas, and general digestive upset
- Vegan, non-GMO, and free from gluten, soy, and dairy
Good to know
- Not a DGL supplement—contains glycyrrhizin which can elevate blood pressure
- Unsuitable for daily, long-term use in individuals with hypertension
FAQ
Can DGL supplements raise my blood pressure?
How quickly does a DGL supplement work for GERD relief?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the best dgl supplement winner is the Planetary Herbals DGL because it offers the highest tablet count, a pure ingredient profile, and a chewable format proven effective for severe GERD at a mid-range investment. If you need a fructose-free formula with the added potency of GutGard, grab the Enzymatic Therapy DGL. And for the convenient capsule user who dislikes strong flavors, nothing beats the Nature’s Way DGL Ultra.
Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.