The results showed that Nrf2 and HO‐1 protein expression were significantly decreased in DSS‐induced mice, but Nrf2 and HO‐1 protein expression were significantly increased in licorice group mice colitis model induced by DSS, Nrf2 and HO‐1 protein expression was significantly decreased in DSS‐induced mice colitis model, Nrf2 and HO‐1 protein expression was significantly increased in licorice group mice. The gene discussed is HMOX1; the disease is colitis.