Licorice, a time-tested herbal remedy known for its sweet taste and wide range of healing benefits:
Botanical Name: Glycyrrhiza glabra
Common Names: Licorice root, Mulethi (Hindi), Yashtimadhu (Sanskrit)
Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
Type: Perennial herb native to Southern Europe and Asia
🌱 Plant Description
- Height: 3–5 feet tall
- Leaves: Pinnate with 9–17 leaflets
- Flowers: Pale violet to purplish
- Roots: Thick, fibrous, and sweet-tasting – the main part used for medicine
- Habitat: Prefers well-drained soil and sunny conditions
🔬 Key Active Compounds
- Glycyrrhizin – Main sweet-tasting compound with anti-inflammatory & antiviral properties
- Liquiritin – Antioxidant flavonoid
- Glabridin – Skin-brightening and estrogen-like effects
- Polysaccharides, coumarins, saponins
💊 Medicinal Benefits of Licorice
| System | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Digestive | Soothes gastritis, acidity, ulcers, and heartburn |
| Respiratory | Expectorant, relieves coughs, sore throats, bronchitis |
| Immune | Antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties |
| Hormonal | Supports adrenal glands, used in stress and fatigue |
| Skin | Lightens pigmentation, soothes eczema and inflammation |
| Reproductive | Supports fertility and hormonal balance in women |
🌼 Ayurvedic Properties
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Rasa (Taste) | Sweet |
| Virya (Potency) | Cooling |
| Vipaka (Post-digestive effect) | Sweet |
| Effect on Doshas | Balances Vata and Pitta, may increase Kapha in excess |
In Ayurveda, Yashtimadhu is a well-known Rasayana (rejuvenator) and is especially beneficial for voice, throat health, and digestion.
🧪 Forms of Use
- Powder (Churna) – Taken with honey or ghee
- Licorice Tea – For throat, digestion, and stress
- Capsules/Tablets – For standardized and measured intake
- Topical Gels/Creams – For pigmentation, inflammation, and eczema
- Kashayam/Decoction – Used in classical Ayurvedic formulas
⚠️ Precautions
- Excessive use (especially glycyrrhizin) may lead to:
- High blood pressure
- Water retention
- Low potassium levels
- Choose deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) for long-term internal use
- Not recommended for pregnancy, hypertension, or kidney issues without medical advice