Licorice root and Acid Reflux: The Traditional Reasoning, Plus the Evidence

If you have read about acid reflux and Chinese medicine, Licorice root was probably in the list. This article narrows it down: why the tradition uses it here, what evidence exists, and how to actually take it.

In pattern terms, this is about liver-stomach disharmony with reflux that flares with stress. Licorice root (Gan Cao, 甘草) is neutral in nature and enters the all twelve meridians, which is the classical reason it suits that picture.

Classically, it eases spasm and stomach pain, often with white peony. A practitioner matching your tongue and pulse to that pattern is exactly the situation it was chosen for.

The evidence for Licorice root

It’s unclear whether products containing licorice alone (excluding herbal blends with licorice) have an effect on digestive symptoms. There’s no good evidence to support the use of licorice for COVID-19.

How people take it for acid reflux

Simmer 2 to 10 grams of sliced root with other herbs, or add a few slivers to throat-soothing teas.

Acupressure runs alongside the herbs in most treatment plans. The points most often paired with this pattern are neiguan, zhongwan, and pressing them firmly for a minute at a time is easy to learn.

For the fuller picture, including the other patterns behind acid reflux, see the Acid Reflux and Heartburn guide.

Cautions

Worth knowing before you start: little is known about whether it's safe to use licorice while breastfeeding.

Consistency beats dose. A modest amount taken regularly usually does more than a heroic amount taken twice.