Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) is the single most commonly used herb in all of Traditional Chinese Medicine — appearing in roughly half of all classical TCM formulas. It is considered a 'guide herb,' meaning it helps other herbs in a formula work better together and reduces their harshness on the body. The root is naturally very sweet, which is why its Latin name means 'sweet root,' and it has been used in Chinese medicine for over 3,000 years.

The main active compound, glycyrrhizin, is a powerful anti-inflammatory that slows down the breakdown of cortisol in your body, giving your adrenal system a bit of extra support during times of stress. Other compounds like liquiritin and glabridin act as antioxidants and help soothe irritated tissue in the gut and respiratory tract. Together, these compounds reduce inflammation, support the immune system, and protect mucosal surfaces like your stomach lining and throat.

For digestive issues, DGL chewable tablets are the preferred form — they've had glycyrrhizin removed so they're safe for longer use without blood pressure concerns. For adrenal support, stress, or immune purposes, whole-root extracts or standardized capsules retaining glycyrrhizin are used. Zhi Gan Cao (honey-fried licorice) is a specific TCM preparation believed to strengthen the heart and qi. Traditional decoctions are common in Chinese herbal medicine when Gan Cao is used as part of a formula.

• Digestive discomfort and stomach ulcers
• Sore throat and cough
• Adrenal fatigue and chronic stress
• Leaky gut and gut inflammation
• Heartburn and acid reflux
• Skin inflammation and eczema
• Viral infections and immune support
• Menopausal symptoms
• Liver health and protection
• Hormonal imbalance (PCOS)

• Recurrence of peptic ulcers (DGL form, with evidence from clinical use and trials)
• Liver damage from chronic hepatitis B and C (supported by decades of Japanese clinical use of glycyrrhizin preparations)
• Oral mucositis during chemotherapy (emerging evidence from clinical trials)

• Fermented foods (sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi) — Support the gut microbiome and mucosal health — complementary to licorice root's gut-soothing effects
• Turmeric — Powerful anti-inflammatory that works along the same pathways as licorice root's flavonoids
• Bananas and leafy greens — Rich in potassium, which is important to maintain when using whole licorice root, since glycyrrhizin can lower potassium
• Ginger — Soothes the digestive tract and reduces nausea, complementing licorice root's digestive benefits
• Bone broth — Supports gut lining repair with collagen and amino acids, working alongside licorice root's mucosal protection

• High blood pressure (pseudoaldosteronism — a well-documented risk with high-dose or long-term whole-root use)
• Low potassium (hypokalemia) — can cause muscle weakness, cramping, or irregular heartbeat
• Fluid retention and swelling (especially in the ankles)
• Headaches with high doses
• Fatigue or hormonal disruption with very prolonged use
• Possible worsening of hormone-sensitive conditions (endometriosis, certain cancers) due to phytoestrogenic activity
• Not recommended during pregnancy at therapeutic doses — associated with preterm birth risk in high-intake observational studies

• Recommended daily: Whole root extract (standardized to glycyrrhizin): 1–4g dried root equivalent daily, or 200–600mg glycyrrhizin. DGL tablets for digestive use: 380–1,140mg (chewed) before meals. TCM decoction: 2–10g dried root per day as part of a formula. Do not exceed 100mg glycyrrhizin per day for prolonged use.
• Best time of day: For digestive issues, take DGL 20–30 minutes before meals. For adrenal and stress support, morning dosing is preferred to align with the natural cortisol rhythm.
• With or without food: DGL should be chewed before meals on an empty stomach for best digestive effect. Capsule or extract forms are generally fine with food and may be better tolerated that way.
• Time to effect: Throat and digestive soothing: within 1–3 days. Gut lining repair and adrenal support: 4–8 weeks of consistent use.
• How long to take it: Limit whole-root licorice (with glycyrrhizin) to 4–6 weeks of continuous use. DGL form can be used longer with less concern. If using for more than 6 weeks, take a 4-week break or consult a practitioner. Monitor blood pressure if using whole root for more than 2 weeks.