Can I Take Licorice on an Empty Stomach? Benefits, Risks, and Best Practices

December 31, 2025 •

4 min read

For centuries, licorice root has been a staple in traditional medicine, particularly for soothing digestive ailments. However, many wonder about the best time to consume it, especially whether taking licorice on an empty stomach is truly beneficial or potentially risky.

Quick Summary

Taking licorice, specifically the deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) form, on an empty stomach is often recommended for digestive relief like heartburn and ulcers by protecting the stomach lining. High doses of regular licorice contain glycyrrhizin, which can cause serious side effects such as high blood pressure and low potassium, so empty stomach consumption should be done cautiously and preferably with DGL.

Key Points

DGL is Recommended: For digestive relief on an empty stomach, deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) licorice is the safest option, as it lacks the problematic compound glycyrrhizin.
Soothes Stomach Lining: Taking DGL licorice before meals helps coat and protect the stomach and esophageal lining from acid, relieving heartburn and ulcers.
High Glycyrrhizin Risks: Standard licorice, which contains glycyrrhizin, can cause high blood pressure, low potassium, and other serious side effects, especially with high or prolonged use.
Caution with Conditions: Individuals with high blood pressure, heart disease, or kidney problems should avoid regular licorice completely.
Medical Consultation is Key: Always consult a healthcare professional before taking licorice supplements to avoid dangerous medication interactions and ensure it is appropriate for your health status.
Empty Stomach Timing: Taking DGL 20–30 minutes before eating allows it to properly coat and soothe the stomach lining before food arrives.
Avoid While Fasting: Never take regular licorice root while fasting, as this can cause a serious electrolyte imbalance.

Herbal remedies are popular for their natural approach to wellness, but proper usage is crucial. The question of whether to consume licorice on an empty stomach highlights the need to understand its different forms and potential effects. For many digestive issues, taking licorice before a meal is a long-standing practice, but the form of licorice is the most important factor to consider for safety and effectiveness.

Benefits of Taking Licorice on an Empty Stomach

Taking licorice root, particularly the DGL form, on an empty stomach is a strategic choice for targeting digestive problems directly. The empty stomach allows the active compounds to interact with the gastric lining without interference from food.

Protection Against Acid Reflux and Heartburn

Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a well-regarded remedy for acid reflux and heartburn. When taken on an empty stomach, it can stimulate the production of mucus, which creates a protective barrier for the stomach lining and esophagus against stomach acid. This protective action is different from antacids, as it works to repair and strengthen the body's natural defenses rather than just neutralizing acid.

Support for Ulcers and Gastritis

For individuals with peptic or stomach ulcers and gastritis, empty-stomach administration is beneficial. The anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of DGL licorice can calm the inflamed tissues of the digestive tract. Its ability to promote the healing of the mucosal lining and combat the H. pylori bacterium makes it a powerful therapeutic agent.

Soothing General Stomach Discomfort

Beyond specific conditions, licorice's antispasmodic effects can help relieve general stomach discomfort, gas, and bloating. Taking it on an empty stomach allows these properties to take effect more rapidly and efficiently, soothing intestinal spasms and aiding overall digestion.

Risks and Precautions with Regular Licorice

While licorice has therapeutic benefits, the compound glycyrrhizin found in unprocessed licorice root can cause serious side effects, especially when consumed in large quantities over a long period. Taking regular licorice on an empty stomach, particularly in high doses, can accelerate the absorption of glycyrrhizin.

The Role of Glycyrrhizin

Glycyrrhizin has mineralocorticoid-like effects, which cause the body to retain salt and water while excreting potassium. This can lead to a number of adverse health events:

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Increased salt and water retention can elevate blood pressure significantly.
Low Potassium Levels (Hypokalemia): The loss of potassium can result in muscle weakness, lethargy, and irregular heart rhythms.
Cardiac Issues: In severe cases, low potassium and fluid retention can lead to heart failure or cardiac arrest.

Who Should Avoid Regular Licorice

Certain individuals should never consume regular licorice on an empty stomach, or at all without medical supervision. These include people with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney issues, low potassium levels, and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Interactions with Medications

Licorice can interact with various medications, including diuretics, blood thinners like warfarin, and corticosteroids. Taking it on an empty stomach can increase the risk of these interactions.

The Safest Option: Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)

For those seeking the digestive benefits of licorice without the risks, DGL is the recommended form. DGL is an extract from which most of the glycyrrhizin has been removed, making it safe for regular, long-term use for digestive health. Supplements are widely available in chewable tablets or capsules.

How to Properly Consume Licorice on an Empty Stomach

Forms and Timing

DGL Chewable Tablets: Chewing DGL tablets 20-30 minutes before a meal is often recommended, as it allows the active ingredients to mix with saliva and coat the stomach lining effectively.
DGL Capsules: Capsules should be taken with water about 20-30 minutes before a meal to allow for optimal absorption.
Licorice Tea (DGL-Free): If using regular licorice root tea, restrict consumption to moderate, infrequent use and avoid taking it while fasting, as this increases the risk of electrolyte imbalance.

Comparison Table: Licorice vs. DGL for Empty Stomach Consumption


Feature	Regular Licorice	DGL Licorice
Primary Use	Flavoring, herbal remedy with multiple uses	Specifically for digestive issues like ulcers and reflux
Main Active Compound	Contains Glycyrrhizin, responsible for sweet flavor and side effects	Glycyrrhizin removed, focuses on other beneficial compounds
Empty Stomach Use	Not recommended, increases risk of side effects	Recommended, maximizes benefit for digestive lining
Side Effect Profile	High risk of hypertension, hypokalemia, edema	Minimal to no risk of glycyrrhizin-related side effects
Duration of Use	Short-term and under supervision due to side effects	Can be used long-term for up to 4 months

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Taking licorice on an empty stomach is not a one-size-fits-all solution. For safe and effective relief of digestive issues, deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) licorice is the preferred option. Its modified composition allows you to leverage the herb's protective and soothing benefits without the significant health risks associated with glycyrrhizin. Regular, glycyrrhizin-containing licorice should be consumed with extreme caution and only in moderation, especially by those with certain health conditions or on specific medications. As with any supplement, consulting a healthcare provider is the most prudent step before incorporating licorice into your routine. For more information on the risks associated with licorice overconsumption, consider reading this article on life-threatening complications.

Important Considerations Before Taking Licorice

Consult a doctor, especially if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, or kidney problems.
Check for medication interactions, particularly with diuretics, blood thinners, and corticosteroids.
Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding, as licorice can pose risks during pregnancy.
Stick to recommended dosages and do not use for long periods without medical guidance.
Choose DGL licorice specifically for empty stomach digestive support to avoid glycyrrhizin risks.
Monitor your body for side effects, such as swelling or headaches, and stop use if they occur.

This is a health-conscious summary and not medical advice. Always seek professional medical guidance before starting any new supplement regimen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regular licorice root, which contains glycyrrhizin, is not recommended for empty-stomach use, especially for long periods or in high doses. It can cause serious side effects, including elevated blood pressure and low potassium.

When taken on an empty stomach, DGL licorice increases mucus production, which forms a protective gel-like layer over the stomach and esophagus lining, shielding it from acid and reducing heartburn.

For maximum effect, take DGL licorice in chewable tablet or capsule form about 20–30 minutes before your meal. This timing allows it to prepare and protect the stomach lining.

Yes, DGL licorice can be very effective in helping to heal stomach ulcers. It soothes inflammation, protects the stomach lining, and may even help eliminate the H. pylori bacterium.

Yes, people with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney issues, or low potassium should avoid regular licorice. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also refrain from its use.

The key difference is the presence of glycyrrhizin. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) has had this compound removed, making it safer for addressing digestive issues without the risk of raising blood pressure or affecting potassium levels.

Yes, licorice can interact with several medications, including blood pressure drugs, diuretics, blood thinners, and corticosteroids. Always talk to a doctor before use, especially if you are on any medication.