Benefits of Mulethi (Liquorice) + Side effects, uses, and precautions

The use of Mulethi is quite common in Indian households. Starting from herbal tea, kadha, or pastes to using it as a medicine for cold, cough, and digestive/respiratory issues, this wonderful herb always works wonderfully. 

What is Mulethi?

Mulethi, meaning in simple terms, can be defined as an herb that is used mainly for medicinal, healing, and wellness purposes. Mulethi in English is called “Liquorice root”, but in Ayurveda, it is named “Yastimadhu.”

In the field of healing, it is highly valued for its medicinal effects and properties. In fact, that is the actual reason why the mulethi plant has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic, Unani, and Chinese medicines to treat different diseases. Even Western and modern medical science started using Mulethi in the preparation of several types of medications after recognising its magnificent benefits.

Scientific Name & Other Names of Mulethi

The Scientific name of Mulethi is Glycyrrhiza glabra. But, in general, it is known as “licorice” or “Liquorice.” However, in India, it is known by different names, depending upon the varying regions. Below is a brief about the different names of mulethi in different languages:

1. In Hindi = मुलेठी
2. In Sanskrit = यष्ठिमधु
3. In Marathi = जेष्ठमध
4. In Bengali = যষ্টিমধু
5. In Tamil = அதிமதுரம்
6. In Telugu = అతిమధురం
7. In Kannada = ಜೇಷ್ಠಮಧು
8. In Malayalam = ഇരട്ടിമധുരം
9.  In Urdu = ملیٹھی
10.  In Assamese = যষ্টিমধু

Besides these regional names, licorice is also called “Sweet stick/wood” or “Madhuka” among some people. 

Nutritional Content of Mulethi

You might wonder knowing that even a single Mulethi stick can be a powerhouse of several nutrients and healthy antioxidants. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value of 100g Mulethi:

12 Amazing Health Benefits of Mulethi (Liquorice Root)

Well, we all use Mulethi churna or sticks in our Indian households either for making teas, kadhas, or herbal drinks, etc. Often, we assume that it will be helpful for mild respiratory issues like a cold, cough, etc. But here, you are underestimating the actual power of this herb.

If we dig into the depths, then we can find that in reality, Mulethi is a panacea that can benefit beyond healing mild health issues, and even treat, prevent, or cure many serious diseases and disorders. Mulethi Benefits mainly include the following:

1/12. MULETHI BOOSTS YOUR IMMUNITY

Mulethi is a rich source of healthy antioxidants and immune-boosting compounds, which help your body to fight infections, viruses, bacteria, and other harmful substances that might have entered your body and harm it.

By increasing the production of white blood cells, Mulethi plays a major role in strengthening natural immunity and making you less prone to seasonal flu, cough, cold, etc, especially during winter or weather changes.

Mulethi uses its nutrient-rich profile in such a way that it works as a protective shield to improve the body’s resistance against fatigue and stress. So, if you are someone who often feels weak or falls sick frequently, then surely add mulethi powder to your routine.

2/12. MULETHI CAN HEAL YOUR RESPIRATORY ISSUES

The use of mulethi for cough, cold, sore throat, etc has been done for centuries by our ancestors. Using its anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties, mulethi forms a protective coating over your throat and reduces irritation or dryness. Besides, it also helps in thinning mucus and makes it easy for you to expel phlegm during a cough or sneeze.

Due to respiratory health-boosting effects, the parts of the Mulethi tree are used as key ingredients in the preparation of many Ayurvedic syrups and home remedies.
Simply sip a cup of mulethi tea or chew a tiny piece of mulethi, and you will be miles away from problems like seasonal allergies, flu, sinusitis, hay fever, laryngitis, and even asthma.

3/12. MULETHI IMPROVES YOUR DIGESTION

Mulethi powder benefits your digestive system the most. Its soothing effects on the one side reduce gas, acidity, bloating, and constipation. On the other hand, the roots of mulethi being anti-inflammatory calm down the irritation in the stomach lining, thereby reducing problems like gastritis and heartburn.

The daily use of Mulethi aids in better absorption of nutrients and ensures smooth bowel movements. After reaching inside your digestive system, it works as a soothing and mild laxative agent.
So, now if you are having any kind of digestive discomfort or stomach issues, then you do not have to rely on chemical-based medicines to heal them. As natural medicine, mulethi is available to safeguard you.

4/12. MULETHI IS A NATURAL STRESS BUSTER

Mulethi has adaptogenic properties, which means it is best for your mental health. The studies say that Mulethi supports hormonal balance as it regulates cortisol, the stress hormone. By helping your body cope with stress and fatigue, it promotes gland function and makes you feel even more energetic and calm.

In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, where issues like stress, hypertension, and anxiety are becoming common, Mulethi can be your perfect companion. Drink a cup of Mulethi tea daily, and it will uplift your mood, reduce restlessness, and improve mental clarity.
In fact, it is an age-old remedy that can assist in maintaining emotional balance and keeping your body energized. Surely have it when you are feeling mentally exhausted.

5/12. MULETHI PROMOTES SKIN HEALTH

Mulethi for skin is highly beneficial as it has strong anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and skin-soothing agents that help to treat skin problems like acne, pimples, dryness, redness, irritation, or skin infections.

Mulethi Benefits for skin:

1. Reduces dark spots, blemishes, and pigmentation
2. Protects your skin from harmful UV rays
3. Provides a natural glow and even tone to the skin
4. Prevents premature ageing, fine lines, and wrinkles
5. Calms sensitive and irritated skin
6. Hydrates your skin
7. Provides gentle exfoliation and removes dead cells

Often, people remain confused about whether Mulethi powder for face is good or not. And the answer is yes. In fact, Mulethi is one of those skin-friendly agents that you can use as DIY masks for skin-brightening, nourishing, and complexion-improving purposes.

6/12. MULETHI STRENGTHENS HAIR & PREVENTS DANDRUFF

Mulethi for hair is highly wonderful as it strengthens hair roots, reduces hairfall, and prevents dandruff. It also nourishes your hair follicles, which is the basic need for shiny, long, and healthy hair.

The antifungal and antibacterial properties present in mulethi keep your scalp clean and infection-free. Also, if you mix mulethi powder with heena or otherwise curd, then it acts like a natural hair mask. In fact, it is a natural conditioner that can reduce the dryness and itchiness of your scalp.
So if you are also having any kind of health issues, and you are looking for a natural but effective way to boost hair health, then mulethi can be your go-to remedy. Unlike chemical-based shampoos or conditioners, it will not harm your hair at all.

7/12. MULETHI CAN SUPPORT YOUR WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY

Mulethi benefits those dealing with obesity or want to lose extra kgs. Compounds such as flavonoids and glycyrrhetinic acid present in Mulethi prevent the accumulation of fat in the body, thereby supporting weight management.

8/12. MULETHI IMPROVES ORAL HEALTH

Mulethi stick is a natural tooth and tongue cleaner, which is often prescribed by vaidyas and Ayurveda experts for better oral health and hygiene. It contains several healthy and antibacterial compounds that fight harmful bacteria in your mouth and also handle problems such as bad smell, plaque, tooth decay, etc.

9/12. YOUR LIVER HEALTH IS RESTORED BY MULETHI

Mulethi powder uses also involve utilizing it as a natural liver detoxifier. It helps flush out toxins and protects your liver cells from the damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, it prevents fatty liver by reducing excessive fat deposition in the liver tissues.

If you are dealing with liver-related conditions such as hepatitis, jaundice, or liver cirrhosis, then you may also add Mulethi to your diet. But make sure to consult a physician, vaidya, or Ayurvedic practitioner about its dosage for deriving the maximum benefits.
Since the liver plays a crucial role in digestion, detoxification, and overall health, it becomes important that you look after your liver and maintain its optimum functioning and health. For this purpose, the Mulethi plant can help you to the maximum.

10/12. MULETHI ENSURES HORMONAL BALANCE

Mulethi benefits for female health involve supporting hormonal balancing and managing PCOD/PCOS symptoms. Every spoonful of Mulethi powder is a rich source of phytoestrogenic properties that help to keep hormones in balance, especially in the female body.

Take ½ tsp of mulethi churna with a glass of lukewarm water on an empty stomach, and it will work as a natural shield that fights against problems caused by hormonal imbalances, such as menstrual irregularities, cramps, mood swings, hot flashes, and so on.
Mulethi is also helpful for boosting reproductive health, and it is also used for infertility treatment in Ayurveda. Additionally, it also contributes to overall emotional stability and well-being, not just in women, but also in men.

11/12. MULETHI REDUCES INFLAMMATION OF THE BODY

Being anti-inflammatory in nature, Mulethi works as a powerhouse natural agent to reduce swelling, pain, and redness of the joints. It is one main ingredients of Ayurvedic medicines that are used to treat conditions like arthritis and muscle soreness.

Unlike chemical-based painkillers, mulethi offers you a natural and gentle solution for managing pain and inflammation. Just drink Mulethi tea once or twice a day, and stay, and it will surely provide you with long-term relief from chronic inflammation without any side effects. Isn’t it easy and wonderful?

12/12. MULETHI IS GOOD FOR YOUR HEART HEALTH

Mulethi, licorice root, also called Yastimadhu in Ayurveda, contains such compounds that help regulate cholesterol levels and reduce triglycerides, which are the cornerstones for a healthy heart. Blood circulation and the functioning of the arteries are also improved through the consumption of Mulethi.

Drinking Mulethi tea in moderation can be beneficial for people with high cholesterol or those at risk of heart-related issues. A healthy heart ensures a healthy life, and Mulethi, when consumed wisely, can support long-term heart health naturally and effectively.

How to use Mulethi?

There are many ways in which you can use Mulethi. It mainly includes:

1. Take 1 tsp of Mulethi churana or powder and have it with lukewarm water either in the morning on an empty stomach or at night after having your dinner.
2. You can also take Mulethi powder with cow’s milk. It works marvelously for lactation.
3. Mulethi tea can also be prepared, which is a better option as compared to your normal tea/coffee.
4. Taking Mulethi powder with honey is considered good for respiratory issues such as a sore throat, cold, cough, etc.
5. To have clear, radiant, and healthy skin, you can mix Mulethi powder with rose water and apply it to your skin.
6. You can also make Mulethi kwath. As it will benefit your digestive system a lot.
7. You can also simply chew properly washed Mulethi sticks. These sticks will benefit your oral health by preventing problems such as cavities, reducing plaque, and soothing gum inflammation.
8. Together, Mulethi powder and curd work as a natural skin-care agent and boost hair health.
   

Necessary Precautions

Despite being highly beneficial for both physical and cognitive health, it is necessary to use Mulethi as per the guidelines suggested by the doctor. Here are some necessary precautions that one should keep in mind while using Mulethi:

1. The pregnant and breastfeeding ladies should avoid taking Mulethi.
2. People with kidneys are advised to carefully use Mulethi as it can influence fluid balance and electrolytes in their bodies.
3. Also, consult a doctor first before incorporating Mulethi into your diet if you are a patient with high blood pressure or any kind of heart problem.
4. Avoid using liquorice if you have hypokalemia, as the use of Mulethi can even lower your potassium levels further.
5. If you are on any kind of medications or dealing with any sort of hormone-sensitive conditions, make sure to seek professional advice regarding Mulethi consumption.
   

Mulethi Side Effects

When consumed in large amounts or not as per the precautions/guidelines suggested, mulethi can even lead to many side effects, such as:

1. Hypertension or high blood pressure: Mulethi contains Glycyrrhizin, and it can compel your body to retain water and sodium, which in turn, may spike your blood pressure levels.

2. Hypokalemia or low potassium: Overdosage of Mulethi can significantly lower your potassium levels, leading to muscle weakness, cramps, and abnormal heart rates.

3. Kidney problems: The experts recommend that all patients who are dealing with kidney-related issues kindly avoid taking mulethi as it can trigger their existing problems.

4. Digestive issues: Some individuals may also experience mild digestive issues such as gas, bloating, nausea, abdominal pain, or discomfort.

5. Hormonal imbalance: Mulethi benefits females, but only to an extent. However, if mulethi is taken in excess quantities, it may even lead to hormonal imbalances.

Takeaway

No matter if it is Mulethi or any other herb, it is helpful only till the point you are using it in the appropriate manner and dosage. Mulethi, also called Licorice, is one such herb that can boost your physical and mental health both, but all that you need is to use it wisely.
Make sure to consult a doctor, Ayurvedic Vaidya, or any other healthcare professional before incorporating Mulethi into your routine regimen.