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Rooted

Digestive

Peptic ulcer (adjunct)

4 plants

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This page is for the person already on a GI plan who asks about licorice. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice is the ulcer-adjacent form; whole-root glycyrrhizin is HTN/hypokalemia. Marshmallow coats. Slippery elm same family of demulcent. None of this treats a bleeding ulcer or replaces 14-day quadruple therapy. NSAID ulcers need the NSAID stopped.

Primary plants

  1. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
    1
    LicoriceStrong traditional

    Glycyrrhiza glabra

    DGL chewables are the reflux/ulcer tradition. Whole-root tea is not DGL.

    Typical. DGL chewables as labeled, often before meals. Confirm DGL on the label.

    Safety. Whole root: HTN, hypokalemia, edema, pregnancy avoid.

  2. Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)
    2
    MarshmallowStrong traditional

    Althaea officinalis

    Root mucilage for irritated mucosa.

    Typical. Cold maceration 2–5 g.

    Safety. Binds oral drugs 1–2 h.

Supportive plants2
  • Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra)
    Slippery elmStrong traditional
    Ulmus rubra

    Inner-bark slurry, same demulcent idea.

    Typical. Powdered inner bark in water.

    Safety. Outer bark no. Drug binding.

  • German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
    German chamomileStrong traditional
    Matricaria chamomilla

    Traditional anti-inflammatory tea for the upper GI.

    Typical. Flower tea.

    Safety. Asteraceae.

Clinical notes

  • Coffee-ground emesis and melena are an ED, not more DGL.

When this is not enough

  • GI bleed, perforation, unexplained anemia, NSAID that has not been stopped, H. pylori untreated

Rooted is a private clinical reference for licensed practitioners. It is educational, not a treatment protocol, and not a substitute for the chart, the exam, or pharmacy review. Plant medicines interact with drugs and can harm liver, kidney, heart, pregnancy, and children.

All digestive diagnoses