Yashtimadhu (Mulethi): 9 Benefits, Uses & Side Effects

Yastimadhu is also recognized as licorice or mulethi, one of the famous ayurvedic herbs known by almost every Indian. Botanically, it is famous by the name Glycyrrhiza Glabra, a flowering plant's root which is used in various ayurvedic formulations for centuries. Most Indians chew this household item whenever their voice goes down. or they feel tired. 

In this blog, we will discuss the amazing benefits of Yashtimadhu that you can get when using it as a part of your health and beauty regimen. So, read on to know more about its incredible results!

Do you know?

• Evidence of Yashtimadhu's use has been found in ancient Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, and ancient Greek and Roman medicine, where it was used to treat coughs, sore throats, and digestive issues.
• Mulethi has anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in alleviating symptoms of inflammation.
• Mulethi/Yashtimadhu can provide relief from stress and anxiety while also supporting the adrenal glands.
• Traces of Mulethi's use date back to ancient Egypt, with evidence even found in the tomb of Tutankhamun.

What is Yashtimadhu?

Yashti means wood, and Madhu stands for honey, because of which it is known as liquorice. It is a herb-like plant with sweet roots, and you will be surprised to know that it is said to be 40-50 times sweeter than sugar. It offers numerous health benefits to the individual because of its chemical components.

Yashtimadhu liquorice Nutritional Profile

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Calories	375 kcal
Carbohydrates	93 g
Sugars	5 g
Fiber	0 g
Protein	0 g
Fat	0 g
Sodium	50 mg
Potassium	0 mg
Calcium	50 mg
Iron	5 mg
Magnesium	20 mg
Phosphorus	50 mg

Active elements in Yashtimadhu / mulethi

• Glycyrrhizin
• Flavonoids
• Saponins
• Phytoestrogens

List of 9 Yashtimadhu Herb Benefits

1. Prevents Skin from Sun Damage

With the passing of time, the skin develops aging signs and dark spots due to excess exposure to the sun. Yashtimadhu churna intake treats these spots easily and quickly, offering the skin a new look. A component in mulethi called glabridin is highly effective for skin and treats sunburns.

For best results, apply a licorice-based pack on the skin after excessive exposure to the sun, as it contains enzymes that block UV radiation.

2. Helps in Relieving Cough

If the individual wants to get relief from cough and cold naturally, then mulethi powder is the best remedy. On top of that, most people in India take Yashtimadhu as a herbal medication to get relief from cold, cough, throat irritation, bronchitis, sore throat, and various other respiratory issues.

In addition to that, it also eases cough and cough accumulation in the lungs. Furthermore, because of its antibacterial properties, its powder also reduces the infection of the upper respiratory tract.

3. Prevent Hair Fall

Mulethi is the best herbal medication or powder for women with excess hair fall. The reason is it is rich in flavonoids and phytoestrogens; both are plant components that improve the head's scalp and hair health.

On top of that, it also prevents scalp infection by stimulating hair growth. Some hair experts state that mulethi powder helps soothe irritating scalps by reducing dandruff. 

4. Regulates Blood Sugar Level

The mulethi contains a very potent phytoestrogen compound known as glabridin that offers a sweet taste to the individual when they eat roots. This compound also plays an essential role in regulating the blood sugar level of the human body.

If individuals take an adequate dosage of Yashtimadhu powder, it also helps in reducing the breakdown of starch into glucose, by which diabetes will be in control. But ensure not to take this Yashtimadhu powder without consulting the doctor.

5. Aids in HCL levels 

This herb, called Yashtimadhu, also acts as an effective antacid that also reduces the HCL level in the stomach. Thus, reducing irritation and stomach ulcers. Furthermore, mulethi makes the digestion of human beings effective.

On top of that, its powder also relieves against chronic gastritis, which is a severe problem that leads to inflammation of the stomach lining.

6. Manages the Weight of the Person

image source: Photo by Ketut Subiyanto: pexels

This is another benefit of the Yashtimadhu herb. According to some studies, the presence of flavonoids in the mulethi manages the person's weight. But don't think just by taking this herb, you can lose weight; you have to follow a proper diet and workout regime.

7. Boost the Immunity

Known for boosting stamina and energy. There are several bioactive ingredients in Yashtimadhu or mulethi that reduce general debility, fatigue, and weakness and also improve the vitality of the human body. 

Moreover, Yashtimadhu is also famous for its antibacterial properties due to which it bolsters immunity and also protects the body from various types of microbial infections. Furthermore, it also improves the function of the kidney, liver, and adrenal glands which helps the individual to live a stress-free life.

8. Make the Skin Acne Free

Yashtimadhu includes controlling the oil production in the skin, which is the main cause of acne. So, if you take mulethi regularly under the supervision of an expert, the skin will be acne free.

9. Controls Cholesterol

These days the problem of bad cholesterol in the body is a very common issue. If an individual takes the root of Yashtimadhu, it will increase the level of healthy cholesterol in the body.

How Should You Use Yashtimadhu Churna?

Yashtimadhu is used in ayurvedic medication for various purposes. You can use its powder at home in the form of:

1. Mulethi Tea

image source: Photo by NIKOLAY OSMACHKO: pexels

First, boil water in a pan and add around 1 teaspoon of Yashtimadhu powder to the boiled water. For the taste, add 1 tsp grated ginger and let the liquid summer for around 5 minutes.

After that, you can add your favorite tea leaves if you want to the liquid and again simmer it for a few minutes. Now, add milk and sugar according to your  taste and let it simmer for around 10 to 12 minutes.Finally, strain the mixture in a cup and drink it regularly for better results.

2. Mulethi Water

To prepare mulethi water you have to soak one tablespoon of Yashtimadhu powder in warm water one night before. The next morning reheat the water again, and for the taste, add some drops of lemon. Ensure to have mulethi water on an empty stomach.

3. Have Yashtimadhu Powder

Buy fresh Yashtimadhu roots from the market and wash them properly. Now cut these washed roots into small pieces and lay them in the sun to dry for around one week. Once they dry, grind them and make a fine powder.

Ensure to pass this powder into a fine sieve to remove any impurities. When the powder is ready, store them in an airtight container.

Yashtimadhu or Mulethi Side-Effects

According to some reports, it is found that if pregnant women take Yashtimadhu powder, it will lead to low IQ in the child. Apart from that, it also causes preterm labor, because of which it is not recommended to have Yashtimadhu during pregnancy.

Image source: Photo by Freepik

Furthermore, this herb is not suggested for people suffering from high BP and low potassium levels. If the individual takes an excessive dosage of licorice, it will lead to vomiting, nausea, and high blood pressure. That means, without the advice of an expert, you should not take this herb.

Also read:

• Honey products offered by Zandu 
• Types of Honey available in India

Precautions to Take While Having Yashtimadhu

No doubt, Yashtimadhu being the herbal plant, is safe for people. But it should be taken under the supervision of an expert if you are suffering from the below conditions:

• Uterine fibroids
• Heart or kidney issues
• High blood pressure
• Women taking birth control pills or any other hormonal medication
• Low potassium level in the blood
• Fluid retention
• Congestive heart failure
• Lower sugar levels in the blood
• Hypertonia
• Loss of libido
• Erectile dysfunction

Home DIY Remedies of Yashtimadhu

It is a potent ayurvedic medicine that can easily cure many diseases. They are:

1. Swararbheda or Hoarseness of Voice

To get relief from the hoarseness of voice, you must take rice milk along with a powder of Yashtimadhu and ghee. You should take it orally two times a day after having food.

2. Pandu or Anemia

Image source: Image by Narupon Promvichai: Pixabay

Mulethi is also very useful in getting rid of anemia. First, take the roots of Yashtimadhu and crush them. After that, add around 4 times of water and boil. Now, separate this water ¼ and take it orally. 

3. Thrishna or Excessive Thirst

It can also reduce thirst if you take its decoction. But ensure to take it in adequate quantity.

4. Daha or Burning Sensation

In case you are suffering from a burning sensation, take a decoction of Yashtimadhu of around 60 ml two times a day.

5. Kasa or Cough

To get relief from cough, Yashtimadhu powder should be taken with 0.6 grams of honey regularly in the morning. You must take this mixture for one week, and you will see the magical results.

6. Aruchi or Anorexia

image source: photo by freepik: freepik

The Yashtimadhu powder, along with honey, is a very effective ayurvedic remedy for anorexia. You should take 4-6 grams of this mixture twice a day regularly.

7. Hiccup or Hidma

Taking pressed snuff of Yashtimadhu powder along with honey is an effective way to get rid of hiccups. The quantity of this mixture must be 10 grams  which you should take orally.

Interaction of Yashtimadhu with Other Medications or Supplements

This herb or any product made of Yashtimadhu does not react with homeopathic medications and goes well with most dietary supplements. But if you are taking more than one product per day, ensure to consult the experts before starting.

Moreover, if you talk about western medications, it is best to seek the doctor's advice before taking the product of Yashtimadhu with allopathic medicine. However, if it is advisable, then first take allopathic medication and wait for 30 minutes. After that, you can have ayurvedic medicine for the best results.

Conclusion

Finally, you must have understood the benefits of Yashtimadhu and its ayurvedic uses. The Yashtimadhu herb is widely used in many Ayurvedic medications to cure many diseases and illnesses. But most importantly, it is very useful in making the skin glowing and acne free. So, start using Yashtimadhu today and see the magical results.