What is Mulethi?
Licorice, scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, is one of the most effective and time-tested herbs in traditional medicine. It's commonly called Mulethi root, and in Ayurveda, it's known as Yashtimadhu, meaning "sweet stick."
This name perfectly describes its most distinctive quality: a sharp, natural sweetness that's stronger than sugar.
- Mulethi is more than just a flavoring agent. Its history dates back more than 4,000 years, having been highly valued by ancient Egyptian and Chinese physicians.
- Today, modern science is confirming what ancient texts already knew: the benefits of Mulethi are immense and holistic, supporting nearly every system in the human body.
- If you're tired of persistent problems like poor digestion, frequent coughs, or dull skin, this single, multi-purpose root offers a mild, natural solution.
By addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, rather than simply masking symptoms, Mulethi is a natural answer to today's health concerns.
The Science of Sweetness: Unique Healing Compounds
The secret to Mulethi many benefits lie in its unique chemical composition. It contains over 300 active compounds that work together to produce synergistic healing effects.
Glycyrrhizin (sweetener): This is its star ingredient. It's a saponin that's responsible for the root's intense sweetness (up to 50 times sweeter than table sugar) and its most effective healing action.
Glycyrrhizin has strong anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
Flavonoids (glabridin and glabridin): These are powerful antioxidants that protect your cells from environmental toxins and damage from everyday life (oxidative stress).
Glabridin is especially known for its skin-brightening effects.
Phytoestrogens: These are natural plant-based compounds that can gently support and balance hormone levels in the body, which is especially important for women's health. Together, these compounds expand the benefits of Mulethi, from gut health to skin cleansing and immunity.
Top 10 Benefits of Mulethi
The true power of Mulethi lies in its comprehensive support of the entire body. Here's a detailed look at 10 of the most valuable benefits of licorice that can transform your health:
Benefit 1: Best for the digestive system
Licorice is excellent for the digestive system, relieving common and chronic ailments like acidity, heartburn, and ulcers.
Forms a protective shield: When eaten, Mulethi forms a soothing, gel-like layer (called a demulcent effect) on the lining of the stomach and esophagus.
This layer acts as a natural bandage, physically protecting irritated tissue from strong stomach acid, instantly relieving heartburn and acid reflux.
- Helps heal ulcers: It naturally increases the production of protective mucus in the stomach. More mucus means a stronger defense against ulcers. Studies indicate that it not only helps heal existing stomach ulcers but also helps prevent them from recurring.
- Fights bad bacteria: Certain flavonoids in licorice have powerful antibacterial properties, especially against Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)—the bacteria responsible for many stomach ulcers and chronic gastritis.
- Practical tip for digestion: To avoid acidity, take half a teaspoon of Mulethi powder mixed with warm water about 30 minutes before your main meal.
Benefit 2: Breathing relief and lung strength
From minor sore throats to chronic congestion, licorice is a very effective, natural aid for breathing.
Soothes the throat: Its light, thick coating instantly reduces the irritation and inflammation that causes coughs.
This makes it a favorite natural remedy for sore throats and dry coughs.
- Natural expectorant: Mulethi helps thin and loosen thick, sticky mucus in the lungs and respiratory tract. It's its expectorant action that makes it easier for the body to expel mucus, clearing congestion and helping with conditions like bronchitis and asthma.
- Anti-inflammatory action: By reducing inflammation in the bronchial tubes, Mulethi makes breathing easier and more comfortable, especially during seasonal colds or allergies.
Benefit 8: Supports Oral and Dental Health
Licorice's powerful antibacterial properties can be used directly for oral hygiene.
- Fights Cavity-Causing Bacteria: Chewing the raw root or gargling with Mulethi helps reduce the growth of bacteria responsible for plaque, bad breath, and cavities.
- Soothes Gum Problems: Its anti-inflammatory effect can soothe inflamed gums and relieve mouth ulcers.
Benefit 9: Supports Heart and Cholesterol Levels
Mulethi supports long-term heart health.
Antioxidant Protection: By reducing oxidative stress, it helps prevent plaque (hardening of the arteries) from forming in the blood vessels.
Cholesterol Management: Certain compounds in Mulethi help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels, promoting healthy blood flow. Benefit 10: Improves thinking ability
In the Ayurvedic tradition, licorice is considered a medhya rasayana, a group of herbs that nourish the brain and support neurological function.
Memory and Focus: By calming the nervous system (Benefit 4) and providing anti-inflammatory support, it helps improve concentration, memory, and overall thinking ability.
Neuroprotection: Antioxidants protect brain cells from damage, maintaining long-term mental sharpness.
How to Use Mulethi Safely
To reap the full benefits of licorice, consistent and safe use is essential.
- Form of Licorice
- Easy Preparation
- Key Benefit Focus
- Powder (Churna)
Mix 1/2 to 1 teaspoon with warm water, honey, or ghee.
Digestion, Immunity, Adrenal Support (Internal Use).
Herbal Tea
Steep 1 teaspoon of powder/root in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Relaxes breathing and reduces stress and anxiety.
- Raw Root Stem
- Chew a small, peeled piece for 5-10 minutes.
- Sore throat, cough, and oral health.
- Applicable Paste
- Mix the powder with rose water, aloe vera, or yogurt.
Skin brightening, acne spot treatment (external use).
Recommended Daily Dosage: For general internal health, the most common daily dose is 1 to 5 grams of Mulethi powder (about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon).
Important Safety Precautions You Should Know
Although the benefits of Mulethi are very impressive, caution is needed due to the high concentration of glycyrrhizin. This is crucial for user safety and search engine reliability.
High Blood Pressure: This is a serious concern. Glycyrrhizin can affect the body's fluid and electrolyte balance, causing sodium and water retention, which can increase blood pressure.
If you have high blood pressure, consult your doctor before use. Your doctor may prescribe a safer form, such as DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice), which has the glycyrrhizin removed.
Low potassium: Long-term high doses can cause low potassium levels (hypokalemia), which can lead to muscle weakness or irregular heartbeat.
Always consult your doctor about using Mulethi if you're taking any prescription medications.
Is it safe to take Mulethi daily?
Yes, it's generally safe to take 1 to 5 grams (about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon) of Mulethi powder daily for general health.
However, due to its effects on blood pressure, it's important to monitor your condition and consult a doctor if you have hypertension (high blood pressure).
How quickly do the benefits of Mulethi for sore throats work?
The soothing effect of Mulethi on sore throats is almost immediate. The gel-like compound coats the throat lining immediately, providing immediate relief from irritation and coughing.
What are the main benefits of licorice for the skin?
The main benefit of Mulethi for the skin is reducing dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Its active ingredient, glabridin, naturally inhibits the enzyme that produces melanin (skin pigment), leading to a brighter and more even complexion.
Is Mulethi considered hot or cold?
In Ayurveda, Mulethi (yashtimadhu) is considered cold (sheet virya).
This makes it excellent for soothing conditions associated with excessive heat, such as inflammation, acidity (pitta imbalance), and sunburn.
