nonglycyrrhizin

Nonglycyrrhizin is a term used to describe licorice-derived products in which glycyrrhizin, the principal glycoside from Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been removed or is not present. In practice, nonglycyrrhizin products are commonly referred to as deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) preparations. By removing glycyrrhizin, these preparations aim to retain other bioactive licorice constituents while mitigating the risk of glycyrrhizin-related adverse effects.

Production and composition: Glycyrrhizin is typically removed through processing steps such as adsorption onto activated charcoal, ion-exchange resin treatment, or crystallization. The resulting material contains other licorice components such as flavonoids (for example liquiritin and isoliquiritin), as well as polysaccharides and minor saponins. The exact profile varies by source and method.

Uses: Nonglycyrrhizin/DGL is used in dietary supplements, lozenges, and some traditional remedies for gastrointestinal comfort and mucosal protection. It is marketed for conditions such as ulcers or throat irritation; proponents claim reduced risk of hypertension and hypokalemia due to glycyrrhizin removal.

Safety and regulation: Compared with glycyrrhizin-containing licorice, nonglycyrrhizin products have a lower risk of glycyrrhizin-related side effects, but they are not entirely risk-free. High doses or chronic use may still interact with certain medications (diuretics, steroids, antihypertensives) and may be unsafe for people with kidney or heart disease. Regulatory labeling varies by country; some products carry claims of glycyrrhizin-free or DGL without universal standards. Clinical evidence for specific indications remains limited and mixed, and products should be used under medical advice when used for health conditions.