Mulethi, also known as Licorice root or by its Hindi name Mulethi (मुलेठी), is the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant. This herb has one of the most extensive histories in traditional medicine across the world, from Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine to ancient Egyptian and Greek systems. The root is known for its characteristic and intense sweetness, which is said to be 30 to 50 times sweeter than sugar. This sweetness comes from a unique compound, making it a popular flavoring agent. However, Mulethi is far more than just a sweetener; it is a versatile and potent medicinal herb, most famously known for its extraordinary ability to soothe sore throats, support respiratory health, and heal the digestive tract.
Nutritional & Active Compounds in Mulethi
The remarkable therapeutic properties and the intense sweetness of Mulethi are due to its rich and complex chemical composition. The primary active compound is glycyrrhizin (also known as glycyrrhizic acid), which is responsible for both the sweetness and many of the herb’s anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. However, it is also the compound responsible for some of its side effects. Mulethi is also packed with over 300 different flavonoids and polyphenols, such as glabridin and liquiritigenin. These compounds provide Mulethi with its powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-lightening properties.
Health Benefits of Mulethi
Mulethi is a true multi-purpose herb, offering a wide array of health benefits that are strongly supported by both traditional use and modern scientific research.
3.1 Anti-Inflammatory & Healing Benefits
Glycyrrhizin and other flavonoids in Mulethi have potent anti-inflammatory properties, similar to cortisol, the body’s natural corticosteroid. This makes it very effective in reducing inflammation associated with various conditions, from sore throats and arthritis to inflammatory skin diseases. It also promotes the healing of canker sores (mouth ulcers) when used as a mouth rinse.
3.2 Antioxidant Benefits
Mulethi is loaded with powerful antioxidants that help to protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals. This antioxidant action is crucial for preventing chronic diseases, supporting cardiovascular health, and slowing down the aging process.
3.3 Digestive Health & Ulcer Healing
Mulethi is a superb remedy for digestive issues. It is a demulcent, meaning it forms a protective, soothing layer over the mucous membranes of the digestive tract. This provides significant relief from acidity, heartburn, and GERD. It is particularly effective in healing stomach ulcers (peptic ulcers) by increasing mucus production in the stomach, which protects the lining from acid. It can also help inhibit the growth of the H. pylori bacteria, a common cause of ulcers.
3.4 Respiratory Health & Sore Throat Relief
This is Mulethi’s most famous benefit. It is an exceptional expectorant and demulcent for the respiratory system.
- Expectorant: It helps to liquefy and expel thick mucus from the airways, making it highly effective for relieving chest congestion, bronchitis, and wet coughs.
- Demulcent: It soothes the irritated mucous membranes of the throat, providing immediate relief from the pain and scratchiness of a sore throat and dry cough. Simply sucking on a small piece of the root is a time-honored remedy.
3.5 Skin & Hair Benefits
Mulethi extract is a prized ingredient in cosmetics for its skin-lightening and anti-inflammatory properties. The compound glabridin helps to inhibit the enzyme that causes pigmentation in response to sun exposure, making it effective for fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Its anti-inflammatory action can help soothe skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. For hair, it can help to soothe a dry, irritated scalp.
3.6 Adrenal Support & Hormonal Health
Mulethi acts as an adaptogen and supports the adrenal glands, the glands that manage the body’s stress response. By helping to regulate cortisol production, it can combat adrenal fatigue and improve the body’s resilience to stress. Its phytoestrogenic properties may also help in managing symptoms of menopause and PCOS in women. This hormonal action is similar to other herbs, as detailed in our guide on the benefits of Shatavari.
Causes: Why Mulethi Is Commonly Used
The use of Mulethi is widespread, driven by its pleasant taste and its formidable reputation as a gentle yet powerful healer.
- Cultural and Traditional Reasons: It is a fundamental herb in Ayurveda, known as ‘Yashtimadhu’ (the sweet stick). Its use as a throat soother is a tradition known in almost every Indian household.
- Culinary Uses: It is used as a natural sweetener and flavoring agent in candies, teas, and herbal formulations to make them more palatable.
- Medicinal and Preventive Reasons: This is its primary use. People keep Mulethi sticks or powder at home as a first-line remedy for coughs, colds, sore throats, and acidity. Singers and speakers often use it to keep their throats clear and healthy.
Mulethi in Traditional Medicine vs Modern Science
Mulethi is a classic example of an ancient remedy whose mechanisms of action are now well understood and validated by modern science.
- Ayurvedic View: Ayurveda considers Mulethi (‘Yashtimadhu’) to have a sweet (‘madhura’) taste and a cooling (‘shita’) energy. It is known to pacify Vata and Pitta doshas. It is highly valued as a ‘kasahara’ (relieves cough), ‘swarya’ (improves voice), and ‘vrana ropana’ (heals ulcers). It is also a ‘rasayana’ (rejuvenator).
- Modern Research Perspective: An extensive body of scientific research has confirmed the anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, antiviral, and expectorant properties of Mulethi’s active compounds. The mechanism by which it heals ulcers and soothes the throat is well-documented. However, science has also clearly identified the risks associated with the long-term, high-dose use of glycyrrhizin.
- Where Both Align: The alignment is exceptionally strong. The traditional use of Mulethi for coughs, sore throats, and stomach ulcers is fully supported by modern pharmacological evidence. Both systems recognize it as a powerful healer for the mucous membranes of the body, from the throat down to the stomach. For other great expectorants, read our article on the benefits of Sonth (Dry Ginger).
How to Use Mulethi Safely & Effectively
6.1 Dietary Use
Small pieces of the root can be chewed or sucked on directly for a sore throat. Mulethi powder can be used to make a soothing tea.
6.2 Home Remedies
For a sore throat or cough, boil a small piece of Mulethi root in water to make a decoction, or mix half a teaspoon of Mulethi powder with a teaspoon of honey. For acidity, a simple Mulethi tea taken after meals can be very effective.
6.3 Supplements
Mulethi is available in various forms: whole roots, powder, tablets, and liquid extracts. For treating ulcers or for long-term use, it is often recommended to use a Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) supplement. In DGL, most of the glycyrrhizin has been removed, which minimizes the risk of side effects while retaining the ulcer-healing properties.
Possible Side Effects & Precautions
This is extremely important for Mulethi. Long-term, high-dose consumption of whole licorice (containing glycyrrhizin) can have serious side effects.
- High Blood Pressure & Low Potassium: Glycyrrhizin can cause an increase in blood pressure and a drop in potassium levels (hypokalemia), which can be dangerous, especially for people with heart or kidney conditions.
- Fluid Retention: It can lead to water and sodium retention, causing edema (swelling).
- Pregnancy: It should be strictly avoided during pregnancy as it can have adverse effects on fetal development.
- Drug Interactions: It can interact with many medications, including blood pressure drugs, diuretics, and blood thinners.
Best Time & Recommended Quantity to Consume
For a sore throat, it can be used as needed. For acidity, it is best taken before or after meals. The key is short-term use. For general use, do not consume more than 1-2 grams of the powder daily, and do not use it continuously for more than a few weeks without consulting a doctor or a qualified herbalist. If long-term use is needed, opt for DGL.
Myths vs Facts About Mulethi
- Myth: Mulethi is just a sweet stick and is completely harmless.
- Fact: This is a dangerous myth. While it is natural and highly beneficial for short-term use, long-term high-dose intake of whole Mulethi can lead to serious side effects like high blood pressure. Its use requires knowledge and moderation.
- Myth: All licorice candy contains real Mulethi.
- Fact: Much of the “licorice” candy sold today, especially in the US, is flavored with anise oil, not real licorice root. True licorice candy containing glycyrrhizin can contribute to the side effects if eaten in large amounts.
- Myth: Mulethi is only for the throat.
- Fact: While it is a champion for throat health, its benefits are vast. It is an excellent remedy for stomach ulcers, a supporter of adrenal health, and a beneficial agent for the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How does Mulethi help with a sore throat?
It works in two ways. As a demulcent, it coats the irritated throat lining with a protective film, which provides immediate soothing relief. As an expectorant, it helps to thin and loosen mucus, making coughs more productive and clearing congestion.2. What is DGL and why is it recommended?
DGL stands for Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice. It is a form of licorice supplement from which the compound glycyrrhizin has been removed. This makes it much safer for long-term use, especially for healing stomach ulcers, as it does not cause the side effects of high blood pressure or low potassium.3. Can Mulethi help me with stress?
Yes, as an adaptogen, it supports the adrenal glands, which are responsible for producing stress hormones like cortisol. By helping to balance cortisol levels, it can improve your body’s resilience to stress and combat fatigue.4. Is it effective for skin pigmentation?
Yes, Mulethi extract is a well-known natural skin-lightening agent. The compound glabridin in it acts as a tyrosinase inhibitor, which helps to prevent the production of excess melanin, thereby fading dark spots and evening out skin tone.5. Who should absolutely avoid Mulethi?
People with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, and those who are pregnant should absolutely avoid consuming whole licorice root (with glycyrrhizin). Anyone on medication should consult a doctor before using it.Conclusion
Mulethi, the sweet and soothing Licorice root, is a truly remarkable herb with a rich history and a wealth of scientifically-backed benefits. It stands as an unparalleled remedy for soothing the entire respiratory tract and healing the digestive lining. From a simple cough drop to a powerful ulcer healer, its applications are vast and effective. However, its potency demands respect. The key to unlocking the incredible healing power of Mulethi lies in understanding its properties, using it for short-term relief, and being aware of its potential side effects with long-term use. By using this sweet stick of wellness wisely, we can safely harness one of nature’s most effective and time-tested healers.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Author
Dr. Amit Khanna
Dr. Amit Khanna is an Internal Medicine Advisor with a focus on chronic disease management through integrated care. He has over 15 years of experience and emphasizes the importance of nutrition and lifestyle choices as a first line of defense for long-term health.