Mulethi (Liquorice)

The Sanskrit name Yashtimadhu means "sweet root", from yashti (stick or root) and madhu (sweet), describing the naturally sweet taste of the dried root. Botanically, it is Glycyrrhiza glabra, a perennial plant of the Fabaceae (legume) family, native to parts of Europe and Asia. It has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic, Unani and Traditional Chinese medicine (Isbrucker & Burdock, 2006).

In Ayurvedic terms, liquorice is described as having a sweet taste (Rasa: Madhura), heavy and unctuous qualities (Guna: Guru, Snigdha), a cooling potency (Virya: Sheeta) and a sweet post-digestive effect (Vipaka: Madhura). It is considered to help balance Vata and Pitta, while excessive use may increase Kapha. Classical Ayurvedic texts classify it under Kakolyadi Gana and describe it as Kanthya (traditionally used to support throat and voice health) and Rasayana (traditionally regarded as a rejuvenating herb).

Mulethi is known by different names across Ayurveda, English and Indian regional languages. Some of the most common names are listed below.

• Botanical Name: Glycyrrhiza glabra (Fabaceae)
• English: Liquorice (UK), Licorice (US)
• Hindi: Mulethi, Jethimadh
• Sanskrit: Yashtimadhu, Madhuka, Yashti
• Gujarati: Jethimadh
• Tamil: Adhimadhuram
• Malayalam: Irattimadhuram
• Telugu: Atimadhuramu
• Kannada: Jestamadu
• Marathi: Jeshthamadh

The actions of liquorice are linked mainly to its root compounds, including (Isbrucker & Burdock, 2006):

• Glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acid): The principal active compound responsible for Mulethi's characteristic sweetness and many of its biological effects, as well as its potential safety concerns.
• Liquiritin and Isoliquiritin: Flavonoids with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Glabridin: Glabridin has been investigated for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and tyrosinase-inhibitory activity, mainly in laboratory studies.
• Saponins: Plant compounds that contribute to the herb's traditional expectorant and soothing actions.
• Asparagine: A naturally occurring amino acid present in the root.
• Sterols and small amounts of essential oil: Additional constituents that contribute to the plant's overall chemical profile.

Laboratory and early clinical studies suggest that Mulethi (liquorice) has several pharmacological properties. Most evidence comes from laboratory and animal studies, and current human evidence is insufficient to support its use as a treatment for any specific medical condition (NCCIH, 2024):

• Demulcent: Helps coat and soothe the throat and other mucous membranes.
• Expectorant: May help loosen and clear mucus.
• Anti-inflammatory: May help reduce inflammation.
• Antioxidant: Helps protect cells from oxidative stress in laboratory studies.
• Antimicrobial: May act against some bacteria and fungi in laboratory studies.
• Mild laxative and stomach-soothing: May support bowel regularity and help soothe the stomach lining.
• Tyrosinase inhibitor: May influence skin pigmentation in laboratory studies.

These pharmacological properties help explain the traditional Ayurvedic use of Mulethi to support throat comfort, digestive health and skin health. However, they should not be interpreted as proven clinical benefits or as a substitute for appropriate medical treatment. Because glycyrrhizin can increase blood pressure and reduce potassium levels, Mulethi should be used in recommended amounts and for limited durations unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.

Mulethi (liquorice) is traditionally used in Ayurveda as a soothing herb to support throat, digestive and skin health. Most evidence for these benefits comes from traditional use, laboratory studies and limited human research.

Soothes the Throat and Voice

In Ayurveda, Mulethi is described as Kanthya, meaning it traditionally supports the throat and voice. Its demulcent properties help coat and soothe the throat, which is why it is commonly used in herbal teas, lozenges and cough preparations (NCCIH, 2024).

May Support Stomach Comfort

Mulethi is traditionally used to help soothe the stomach lining and support relief from occasional hyperacidity and heartburn. Deglycyrrhizinated liquorice (DGL) is often preferred for digestive support because it contains little or no glycyrrhizin and is therefore less likely to affect blood pressure or potassium levels (Isbrucker & Burdock, 2006).

Provides Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Support

Mulethi contains glycyrrhizin, glabridin and other flavonoids, which have demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory studies. These properties support its traditional Ayurvedic use as a Rasayana (rejuvenating herb), although clinical evidence in humans remains limited.

May Support Skin Health

Liquorice extract contains glabridin and liquiritin, compounds that may reduce the activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production. As a result, it is commonly included in skincare products intended to help improve the appearance of uneven skin tone. Evidence for these effects in humans is still limited.

Traditionally Used in Hair Care

In Ayurveda, Mulethi is regarded as Keshya, meaning it is traditionally used to support healthy hair and scalp. It is included in some Ayurvedic hair oils and herbal formulations, although scientific evidence supporting its benefits for hair health is currently limited.

Liquorice is used in a few everyday ways, mostly as a soothing home remedy and a flavouring:

In Throat Remedies

Mulethi root or powder is prepared as a herbal tea or included in traditional lozenges to help soothe a dry, irritated throat and support vocal comfort.

For Digestive Comfort

It is traditionally taken after meals, often as a mild herbal tea, to support stomach comfort and help relieve occasional acidity and indigestion.

In Skin Care

Mulethi powder and extracts are added to face packs and skincare preparations because they are traditionally used to support a more even-looking skin tone and healthy skin.

As a Natural Sweetener

The naturally sweet root is used in small culinary amounts to flavour herbal teas, confectionery and selected desserts.

Before using Mulethi, read the precautions below. Its active compound, glycyrrhizin, can increase blood pressure, reduce potassium levels and cause fluid retention, particularly when taken in high doses or for prolonged periods.

High Blood Pressure, Heart or Kidney Conditions

Mulethi can increase blood pressure and cause the body to retain sodium and water. Avoid medicinal use if you have high blood pressure, heart disease or kidney disease unless advised by your doctor (NCCIH, 2024).

Low Potassium Levels

Glycyrrhizin can lower potassium levels, which may lead to muscle weakness, cramps or abnormal heart rhythms. Avoid Mulethi if you have low potassium levels or take medicines that can reduce potassium.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Avoid medicinal amounts of Mulethi during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless advised by your doctor. Some studies have associated high liquorice intake during pregnancy with an increased risk of preterm birth (NCCIH, 2024).

Allergy

Although uncommon, some people may develop an allergic reaction to Mulethi. Stop using it and seek medical attention immediately if you develop a rash, itching, swelling or difficulty breathing.

High Doses or Prolonged Use

Taking high doses or using Mulethi continuously for several weeks may increase the risk of high blood pressure, fluid retention, low potassium levels and heart rhythm disturbances. Use only the recommended amount and avoid prolonged use unless advised by a healthcare professional.

Note: This information is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified doctor or registered Ayurvedic practitioner.

Mulethi can be used in several traditional ways. Use the smallest effective amount and avoid prolonged use without medical advice.

As a Tea or Decoction

• Simmer a small piece of Mulethi root or about half a teaspoon (approximately 1 to 2 g) of powder in one cup of water for 5 to 10 minutes.
• Strain and drink warm.
• Avoid drinking it daily for extended periods.

As a Natural Sweetener

• Add a small pinch of Mulethi powder to herbal tea or desserts for its natural sweetness.
• Use only small culinary amounts, as Mulethi is naturally very sweet and glycyrrhizin intake can accumulate over time.

In a Face Pack

• Mix Mulethi powder with a little water, yoghurt or honey to form a smooth paste.
• Apply evenly to the face, leave for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse gently with lukewarm water.
• Perform a patch test before first use, especially if you have sensitive skin.

As Tablets or Capsules

• Take with water after food, following the dose stated on the product label or advised by your healthcare professional.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose or use continuously for more than a few weeks unless advised by a doctor or qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.

Herbs Traditionally Used With Mulethi

There is no standard medicinal dose for Mulethi, and recommendations are based on traditional use and established safety guidance. To reduce the risk of side effects, daily glycyrrhizin intake should generally remain below about 100 mg, and prolonged continuous use should be avoided.

Children

Avoid Mulethi supplements, concentrated extracts and strong herbal teas in children unless advised by a paediatrician or qualified healthcare professional. Children are more sensitive to the effects of glycyrrhizin on blood pressure and potassium levels.

Teenagers

Occasional use of Mulethi in foods or traditional throat remedies is generally acceptable. Medicinal preparations, supplements and concentrated extracts should only be used under professional guidance.

Adults

A traditional adult dose is about 1 to 3 g of Mulethi powder daily or 1 to 2 cups of a mild herbal tea, usually for no longer than two to four weeks at a time. Tablets and capsules should be taken according to the manufacturer's instructions or a healthcare professional's advice.

Older Adults

Older adults should start with the lowest effective amount and use Mulethi only for short periods. Consult a doctor before use, particularly if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, or take medicines that affect potassium levels or blood pressure.

Note: These amounts are intended as general guidance only and are not a substitute for individual medical advice. Consult your doctor or a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before using Mulethi, especially if you have an underlying medical condition or take regular medication.

Mulethi is generally well tolerated when used in small amounts and for short periods. However, high doses or prolonged use can cause significant side effects, mainly due to glycyrrhizin, which affects the body's salt, water and potassium balance (Omar et al., 2012):

Raised Blood Pressure

Glycyrrhizin can cause the body to retain sodium and water, which may increase blood pressure, particularly with regular or long-term use.

Low Potassium Levels

Mulethi can lower potassium levels, which may lead to muscle weakness, muscle cramps, tiredness and, in severe cases, abnormal heart rhythms.

Lower Testosterone in Men

Some studies suggest that regular consumption of glycyrrhizin-containing liquorice may temporarily reduce testosterone levels in men. Men who are trying to conceive or have concerns about low testosterone should avoid prolonged or high-dose use.

Hormonal Effects

Mulethi may influence hormone metabolism. People with hormone-sensitive conditions should consult their doctor before using medicinal amounts of Mulethi regularly.

Digestive Upset

Some people may experience bloating, stomach discomfort, nausea or mild indigestion, particularly when taking larger amounts. Reducing the dose or stopping use usually resolves these symptoms.

Mulethi (liquorice) can interact with several medicines, mainly because glycyrrhizin can lower potassium levels, increase blood pressure and alter the effects of certain drugs. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you use Mulethi regularly, especially if you take any of the medicines below:

Digoxin (Heart Medicine)

By lowering potassium levels, Mulethi may increase the risk of digoxin toxicity, which can lead to serious heart rhythm problems. Avoid medicinal amounts of Mulethi unless your doctor advises otherwise (Omar et al., 2012).

Diuretics (Water Tablets)

Taking Mulethi with diuretics may increase potassium loss, raising the risk of low potassium levels, muscle weakness and abnormal heart rhythms.

Blood Pressure Medicines

Because Mulethi can raise blood pressure, it may reduce the effectiveness of medicines used to treat hypertension. Consult your doctor before using Mulethi if you take blood pressure medication.

Corticosteroids

Mulethi may increase the effects and side effects of corticosteroids, including a greater risk of fluid retention and low potassium levels (NCCIH, 2024).

Medicines That Affect Potassium

Mulethi may interact with medicines that increase or decrease potassium levels, potentially increasing the risk of electrolyte imbalance. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using Mulethi alongside any long-term prescription medicine.

Note: This is not a complete list of possible interactions. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines, herbal products and dietary supplements you are taking before starting Mulethi.

Storage of Mulethi

Keep liquorice root and powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture to help prevent mould. Store syrups and capsules according to the manufacturer's instructions, and keep all forms out of the reach of children.

• Mulethi (liquorice), also known as Yashtimadhu, is a sweet Ayurvedic root traditionally used to soothe the throat, ease acidity and support skin health.
• Its main compound, glycyrrhizin, can raise blood pressure and reduce potassium levels, so it should not be used freely or for prolonged periods without medical advice.
• Clinical evidence for its wider health effects is limited, so any health claims should be interpreted with caution.
• Avoid liquorice during pregnancy and if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, or low potassium levels, or if you take digoxin or diuretics.
• It may reduce testosterone levels in men, so regular use of high doses is not advisable for men trying to conceive.
• Liquorice may support comfort and wellbeing when used appropriately, but it is not intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease.