Licorice (Mulethi) Benefits: A Sweet Root for Throat and Stomach

Ask for something sweet to soothe a throat, and an Indian grandmother might hand you a small, woody stick. It looks like a twig, tastes naturally sweet, and slowly softens as you chew it. That is mulethi, or licorice root, athimathuram in Tamil, and it has been used in India, China and Europe for thousands of years.

It is a gentle, soothing herb with a long history in cough syrups and herbal teas. But it also needs more care than most herbs, and many people do not know why. Let us look at both sides.

What is Licorice?

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a perennial plant, and its long, thick roots are used. The roots are about 50 times sweeter than sugar, thanks to a compound called glycyrrhizin. It is this same compound that is responsible for both many of licorice's benefits and its main risks.

Licorice also contains flavonoids and other antioxidants. It is used as a flavouring in sweets, tobacco and traditional medicines, and a common ingredient in Ayurvedic cough syrups.

Key Benefits of Licorice

1. Soothes Sore Throat and Cough

Licorice root is demulcent, meaning it forms a soothing film on the throat. It is one of the most popular traditional remedies for dry cough, hoarseness and sore throat, and is used in many herbal lozenges and syrups.

2. May Support Digestion and Acidity

Licorice has been traditionally used for acidity, stomach discomfort and ulcers. A special form called DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice), with most of the glycyrrhizin removed, is used for digestive issues and is considered safer for longer use.

3. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant

Compounds in licorice have shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in laboratory studies. This is part of why it is used in skin products and traditional preparations.

4. May Help With Skin Conditions

Licorice extract is used in creams for redness, eczema and pigmentation. It is an ingredient in many skin-brightening products.

5. Oral Health

Licorice is traditionally chewed for mouth freshness. Some research suggests licorice extract may help control cavity-causing bacteria.

6. Respiratory Comfort

Mulethi is used in many Ayurvedic mixtures for asthma, bronchitis and chest congestion, mainly as a soothing and expectorant herb.

7. Traditional Tonic

In Ayurveda, mulethi is considered a rejuvenating herb that supports energy, voice and general vitality.

How to Use Mulethi

Chewing a Small Piece

Chew a small piece of the root (about an inch) slowly and swallow the juice. Spit out the fibre.

Mulethi Tea

Boil a small piece of root (or half a teaspoon of powder) in a cup of water for five to ten minutes. Strain, add honey, ginger and tulsi. A comforting drink for scratchy throat.

Mulethi Powder With Honey

Mix a pinch of powder with a spoon of honey and take it slowly.

Mulethi Kashayam

Boil mulethi with tulsi, ginger, pepper and cardamom for a traditional cough remedy.

Mulethi Gargle

Boil mulethi in water, cool slightly and gargle for a sore throat.

Face Pack

Mix a pinch of mulethi powder with milk or rose water and apply for ten minutes. Patch test first.

The Important Safety Part

Glycyrrhizin can cause the body to hold on to sodium and water and lose potassium. If taken in large amounts or for a long time, this may cause:

• High blood pressure
• Swelling in the legs and face
• Low potassium (leading to muscle weakness or heart rhythm problems)
• Headache and tiredness

This is why mulethi should be used in short courses, usually a few days to a couple of weeks, unless a doctor advises otherwise. The risk is higher with large amounts of licorice sweets or tea, daily over weeks.

Who Should Avoid Licorice

• People with high blood pressure
• People with heart conditions or irregular heart rhythm
• People with kidney disease or liver disease
• People with low potassium
• Pregnant women (high amounts are linked to preterm birth)
• Those taking blood pressure medicines, diuretics, digoxin, steroids or blood thinners
• Men with low testosterone, since licorice may reduce it a little
• Anyone scheduled for surgery

If you want a digestive benefit, DGL is usually safer than plain licorice.

Tips for Buying Mulethi

Choose dry, light-yellow roots with a sweet smell. Avoid very dark, mouldy or bitter pieces. Buy from a reliable herbal or Ayurvedic store. Store in an airtight jar in a dry place.

How Much is Safe?

A small stick or half to one teaspoon of powder a day for a few days is generally considered fine for healthy adults. Do not use it daily for months. Avoid eating large amounts of licorice candy.

Myths vs Facts About Licorice

• Myth: Mulethi can be taken daily for months. Fact: Long use may raise blood pressure and lower potassium.
• Myth: Mulethi is a safe replacement for cough medicine. Fact: It may soothe, but persistent cough needs a doctor.
• Myth: Licorice candy is healthy. Fact: Candy has sugar, and eating a lot of black licorice can cause problems.
• Myth: DGL and regular licorice are the same. Fact: DGL has most glycyrrhizin removed and is safer for the blood pressure.

A Simple, Safe Mulethi Routine

Use mulethi tea or a small stick for a few days when your throat is sore. Take a break once the cough eases. If you need it longer than two weeks, talk to a doctor. If you notice swelling, headache or palpitations, stop and get your blood pressure checked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mulethi safe for daily use?

Not for long periods. Short-term use is typical. Check with a doctor for long-term use.

Is mulethi good for acidity?

Some people find it soothing, but DGL forms are safer for the stomach long term.

Can children have mulethi?

Small amounts in traditional preparations are given, but ask a paediatrician.

Is licorice candy the same as mulethi?

Not exactly. Many candies are flavoured with licorice extract or anise oil and contain sugar.

Final Thoughts

Mulethi is a sweet, soothing herb with a long tradition. Respect its power, use it in short courses, and let a doctor guide you if you have blood pressure or heart issues. Used wisely, it can be a comforting friend during cough season.

Disclaimer: This post is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please consult a doctor before using herbs, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, on regular medication or have a health condition.