GutGard® (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice — Natural Remedies)

GutGard® is a flavonoid-rich licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root extract from Natural Remedies, processed to remove most glycyrrhizin (the compound that can raise blood pressure). That matters because ordinary licorice root can raise blood pressure and lower potassium, and glycyrrhizin is the compound responsible.

GutGard is researched primarily for Gut Health. One double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial (indexed as phase III) enrolled 200 adults who already had gastroesophageal reflux symptoms and gave GutGard for 28 days, with follow-up to day 35.

The clinically studied dose is Around 150 mg per day. Always follow the product label and check with a healthcare provider for personal advice.

For most healthy adults, GutGard is well tolerated at studied doses. Reported effects can include: Generally well tolerated. In the one 200-person trial the safety profile was reported as good. Because most of the glycyrrhizin is removed, this form is far less likely than whole licorice to raise blood pressure or lower potassium. Mild digestive upset is occasionally reported. It may also interact with some medications. GutGard is not right for everyone, so check with a healthcare provider first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take prescription medication.

Possible interactions include: Blood pressure medication — DGL minimizes the usual licorice effect, but monitor if sensitive. Diuretics — whole licorice affects potassium; DGL much less so. If you take prescription medication, check with a pharmacist or doctor before using it.

NutraSmarts rates the evidence for GutGard as Limited (2 out of 5). It is backed by 1 clinical trial and 1 cited reference summarized on this page. A higher rating reflects more, larger, and better-designed human studies.