There are natural alternatives that work well to heal an ulcer and can be used in conjunction with antibiotics and other prescription drugs. Licorice root specifically Deglycrrhizinated licorice (DGL) can be a good natural complement to other therapeutic measures recommended by your health care processional. Researchers have studied DGL in the treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers. (5-12)
DGL actually addresses the underlying problem causing ulcers instead of hiding the symptoms by reducing stomach acid. DGL addressed the underlying factors by promoting our body''s natural defense mechanisms already in place to prevent ulcers. DGL stimulates the quantity and quality of the protective substance that lines the stomach and intestinal tract. (10,13)
DGL is a special extract of licorice with certain components removed. The glycyrrhizin molecules have been removed from licorice which is associated with high blood pressure and low potassium levels. Sodium has also been removed from the DGL licorice which will help prevent water retention. Long term use of licorice root can have adverse side effects such as water retention, high blood pressure and low potassium; DGL has all the components removed and what are left are very beneficial biologically active flavonoids.
In 1982, researchers reported DGL was as effective as Tagamet in curing gastric ulcers. (14) The same year DGL was also reported to be as good as Zantac. (6) Licorice root extract in the form of DGL stimulates the release of secretin. Secretin has a protective effect on gastric mucosa. By stimulating the body''s natural release of endogenous secretin, the body can rebuild the stomach or intestinal lining that has damage. (15)
In the past anti-acids were the number one prescribed drug for ulcers but have since been replaced with proton pump inhibitors. Anti-acids have nasty side effects on the bowels, for example: aluminum hydroxide promotes constipation and other anti-acids like magnesium hydroxide promote diarrhea. Anti-acids reduce stomach acid and can reduce the absorption of vitamins and medications.
In comparison to DGL other drugs such as antacids, Tagamet, Zantac, Prilosec, and Prevacid all have side effects where DGL has none. Antacids such as magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide, calcium and aluminum carbonate (Maalox, Mylanta, Gelusil, and Tums) can cause rebound hyperacidity, a condition in which the body creates even more acid in response to the artificial stomach acid neutralization. Antacids can also have bowel changes such as diarrhea or constipation and possible drug interactions. Due to the high sodium content of antacids, individuals with kidney impairment should consult a doctor before use. Tagamet, Zantac, Prilosec and Prevacid have the following side effects respectively. Tagamet can cause dizziness, sleepiness, headaches, confusion, hallucinations, diarrhea, and impotence in men. (16) Zantac can cause headaches, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and rashes. (17) Prilosec and Prevacid can cause headaches, dizziness, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and upper respiratory symptoms. (18,19)
