Health Benefits of Licorice or Mulethi

March 23, 2021 get bibo

You must be familiar with the word Mulethi/ Licorice/ Yashtimadhu from the ingredient label of herbal cough syrups as it is an active component in several of them. In Ayurveda and traditional Indian medicines, Licorice or Mulethi, the sweet tasting roots of the Licorice plant is highly acclaimed for its ability to treat a number of health issues like cough, skin ailments, digestive problems etc.

In today’s article we are exploring the multi-faceted benefits of this therapeutic root.

1. Respiratory Health.

Because of Mulethi’s expectorant and bronchodilator properties it is effective in clearing congestion by loosening hard mucus, treating bronchitis ,asthma and promote healthy breathing. It also soothes sore throat and relieves cough.

2. Digestive Health

Because of Mulethi’s chemical compound carbenoxolone it is effective in treatment of chronic-acidity, ulcer , heart burn and acid reflux. It also aid in digestion, relieves constipation by working as a mild laxative.

3. Skin Health

Mulethi promotes collagen production in skin to keep it firm and tight. It is anti inflammatory , anti-bacterial and anti-fungal in nature and thus effective in treating skin conditions like rashes, psoriasis, eczema , hyperpigmentation etc. It contains UV blocking enzymes that protects the skin from sun damage. It is rich in anti-oxidants and thus wards off free radicals that contributes to premature skin-ageing.

4. Controls Cholesterol

Mulethi is very effective in controlling bad cholesterol that leads to heart disease and increases the flow of bile. Because it is rich in anti-oxidants it prevents blood vessel damage from aterial plaque.

5. Relieves Pain

Mulethi has antispasmodic and thus it relaxes muscle tension , reduces muscle cramps and fatigue. It is also effective in reducing abdominal spasm that occurs during menstruation in women.

Additional note : Even though licorice/mulethi possess a multitude of health benefits, over use may cause side effects such as low levels of potassium in the body, which a condition called hypokalemia - muscle weakness. Consuming too much licorice can also cause high blood pressure and metabolism abnormalities. Pregnant or breastfeeding are women are advised to avoid licorice in all forms.

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