Preventive effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) root extract on phenylbutazone-induced equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD) in equids
The purpose of the study was to determine whether Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract (GGRE) can prevent or alleviate phenylbutazone (PBZ)-induced equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD) in donkeys. Twelve donkeys were randomly divided into three groups (A, B, and C). Group A received a placebo. Group B received PBZ (4.4 mg/kg orally every 12 hours). Group C received PBZ (as in group B) and in addition GGRE (17.6 mg/kg orally once daily). The study duration was 7 days.
Results
- Day 0: All animals except one had no EGGD lesions.
- Day 7:
- Group B (PBZ): All animals showed severe EGGD lesions (grades 1/4–3/4).
- Group C (PBZ + GGRE): Only mild changes; the most severe lesions were grade 1/4 in two animals.
- Group A (placebo): No changes.
- Group B (PBZ): All animals showed severe EGGD lesions (grades 1/4–3/4).
- Blood tests:
- Group B: Glucose levels decreased; ALP and ALT values increased.
- Group C: Only ALP increased; glucose levels remained stable.
- Group B: Glucose levels decreased; ALP and ALT values increased.
Licorice root extract significantly reduced the severity of PBZ-induced EGGD in donkeys. In addition, it prevented PBZ-induced hypoglycemia and may have reduced the risk of liver damage. These results suggest that licorice root may have a preventive effect on PBZ-induced stomach problems in equids.
Ahmadnejad, M., G. Jalilzadeh-Amin, and B.W. Sykes. 2022. Prophylactic effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract on phenylbutazone-induced equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD). Journal of Equine Veterinary Science:104088.
**Banse, H.E., and F.M. Andrews. 2019. Equine glandular gastric disease: Prevalence, impact and management strategies. Veterinary Medicine (Auckl) 10:69-76.
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Abstracted summary from the article
"A herbal approach to digestive health" (Trainer Magazine), which specifically discusses the use of licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) to support gastrointestinal wellbeing in horses:
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) – effects on the digestive tract
Licorice root is widely known for anti-ulcer (ulcer-preventive) properties in humans, and it also has documented effects in animals. The article refers to a study in which licorice root proved effective in reducing the severity of phenylbutazone (PBZ)-induced glandular stomach ulcers (EGGD) in donkeys.
In addition, licorice root:
- prevented PBZ-induced hypoglycemia
- acted as a natural antacid (neutralizes stomach acids)
- provided protection for the gastric mucosa
https://trainermagazine.com/european-trainer-articles/tag/Licorice%2B%28Glycyrrhiza%2Bglabra%29
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Licorice – natural support for inflammation and stomach wellbeing
According to studies, the active constituents of licorice (GA and the aqueous extract) effectively relieve inflammation and protect the gastric mucosa just as well as synthetic drugs such as diclofenac and famotidine. When combined with them, licorice enhances the effect further—without side effects. Licorice can be formulated into fast-dissolving, well-absorbed preparations that support both gut health and mobility naturally.
✅ Relief of inflammation
✅ Prevention of gastric ulcers
✅ A natural and effective alternative to synthetic preparations
Licorice: A possible anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer drug
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2750414/
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Licorice Root for Horses
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) – a versatile herb for equine wellbeing
Licorice root is a historically valued medicinal plant that has been used for more than 3,000 years. In horses, it is used especially to protect the gastrointestinal tract, but its effects also extend to the respiratory tract, skin, immune system, and metabolism.
Key effects in horses:
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Gastric ulcer care: Licorice root, especially in DGL form (deglycyrrhizinated), increases mucosal protection and reduces gastric acidity. In several studies, DGL has been more effective than traditional heartburn medications.
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Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation in the gut, lungs, and urinary tract. A strongly mucosa-supporting herb.
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Cough and mucus support: Acts as a cough remedy and an expectorant.
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Mild laxative effect and calming effect on intestinal motility: Suitable, for example, in constipation or colic contexts.
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Support for hormonal balance: Especially in supporting estrogen function balance in mares.
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Antimicrobial: Combats harmful microbes (e.g., H. pylori, Staphylococcus, Candida) and supports gut balance.
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Liver support: Traditionally used, for example, in hepatitis and jaundice.
- Antioxidant and antiviral effects, and possible anti-cancer properties.
Research evidence:
A 2020 meta-analysis (Textbook of Natural Medicine) confirmed licorice root benefits particularly for:
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Gastric and duodenal ulcers – a notable reduction in ulcer size, and in some cases complete healing.
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Inflammatory diseases – DGL can enhance the effect of corticosteroids and reduce the need for them.
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Skin diseases – when used topically, more effective than hydrocortisone for conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
- Antimicrobial effects – particularly in digestive and skin-related problems.
https://blog.adoredbeast.com/licorice-root-for-horses
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Licorice root & cough
The use of licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) for treating cough in horses has been discussed, but direct equine studies are limited. Instead, multiple animal experiments and traditional use suggest potential benefits for relieving respiratory symptoms.
Research evidence
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Mouse studies: In a study using a sulfur dioxide–induced cough model in mice, granules of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract reduced the incidence of coughing by 41.17% over 60 minutes. This effect was comparable to codeine sulfate, a well-known cough suppressant. journals.innovareacademics.in
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Another mouse study: Use of an ethanol extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra led to a 35.62% reduction in coughing in a sulfur dioxide–induced cough model in mice.
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Possible mechanisms of action
Licorice root's cough-relieving properties are believed to be based on its ability to:
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Act as an expectorant: Helps loosen and clear mucus from the airways.
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Soothe irritated mucous membranes: Reduces inflammation and irritation in the respiratory tract.
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Provide antibacterial and antiviral effects: Helps combat microbes that cause respiratory infections.
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Act as an expectorant: Helps loosen and clear mucus from the airways.
