Mulethi is a popular Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for throat comfort, cough, digestion and several other wellness purposes. Also known as Yashtimadhu and licorice root, Mulethi comes from the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra. Its naturally sweet taste has made it a common ingredient in Ayurvedic preparations, herbal teas and traditional remedies.
But there is an important point to understand: Mulethi is a medicinal herb, not simply a harmless natural sweetener. It contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that can affect blood pressure, potassium levels and fluid balance when consumed in excessive amounts or for prolonged periods.
So, what are the actual Mulethi benefits? How can Mulethi be used? Is it useful for cough, sore throat or digestion? And who should avoid it?
This guide explains Mulethi, its traditional uses, potential benefits, ways to use it, side effects and important safety precautions.
What Is Mulethi?
Mulethi is the dried root of a licorice plant, most commonly identified botanically as Glycyrrhiza glabra. In Ayurveda, it is widely known as Yashtimadhu.
The root has a naturally sweet taste and has traditionally been used in herbal formulations for the throat, respiratory system and digestive tract.
Mulethi contains several biologically active compounds. One of the best-known is glycyrrhizin, while other constituents include flavonoids and compounds such as glabridin.
Quick facts about Mulethi
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common name | Mulethi / Licorice |
| Ayurvedic name | Yashtimadhu |
| Botanical name | Glycyrrhiza glabra |
| Main part used | Root |
| Plant family | Fabaceae |
| Important compound | Glycyrrhizin |
| Common traditional uses | Throat, cough, digestion |
| Available forms | Root, powder, tea, extracts and DGL |
Mulethi is therefore more than an ordinary kitchen herb. It is a plant containing active compounds that may produce both beneficial and unwanted effects.
Mulethi in Ayurveda
Mulethi has a long history in Ayurvedic practice. Traditionally, Yashtimadhu has been included in preparations associated with throat comfort, voice, respiratory health and digestive wellness.
Ayurvedic formulations may combine Mulethi with other herbs depending on the intended use.
However, traditional use and modern clinical evidence are not exactly the same thing.
A useful distinction is:
- Traditional use describes how an herb has historically been used.
- Scientific evidence evaluates whether a particular preparation has demonstrated an effect in controlled research.
This distinction is especially important with Mulethi because research varies considerably depending on the condition and type of licorice preparation studied.
Mulethi Benefits: What Does Research Say?
Mulethi contains compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other biological activities. Laboratory and preclinical research has generated interest in its potential health applications.
However, not every traditional claim has been proven through high-quality human trials.
Here are some of the better-known areas of interest.
1. Mulethi May Support Throat Comfort
One of the most common traditional uses of Mulethi is for throat discomfort.
Licorice preparations have been investigated for sore throat in clinical studies. Research has found that certain licorice gargles may help reduce postoperative throat discomfort.
Licorice has also been investigated for discomfort associated with mouth ulcers.
This may help explain why Mulethi is traditionally included in many throat-soothing preparations.
However, this does not mean that Mulethi can cure every cause of sore throat. A sore throat caused by a bacterial infection, severe inflammation or another medical condition may require appropriate medical evaluation.
2. Mulethi Is Traditionally Used for Cough
Mulethi is widely recognized in Ayurveda and traditional herbal medicine for respiratory and throat-related preparations.
Its sweet, soothing nature makes it a common ingredient in herbal formulations intended for cough and throat irritation.
Mulethi may be consumed as part of a warm herbal preparation or included in traditional formulations.
However, a persistent cough should not be treated indefinitely with Mulethi alone.
Seek medical advice if a cough is:
- Persistent or worsening
- Associated with breathing difficulty
- Accompanied by chest pain
- Associated with high fever
- Producing blood
- Associated with unexplained weight loss
The cause of a cough matters more than simply suppressing the symptom.
3. Mulethi May Support Digestive Comfort
Digestive health is another traditional area of interest for Mulethi.
Licorice preparations have been studied for symptoms involving the upper digestive tract, including reflux-related discomfort.
A 2025 randomized controlled trial involving 200 participants investigated a standardized deglycyrrhizinated licorice extract for gastroesophageal reflux-related symptoms. The study reported improvements in several reflux-related outcomes compared with placebo.
However, there is an important distinction.
The study used a deglycyrrhizinated licorice preparation, not ordinary Mulethi powder.
Therefore, it would be inaccurate to claim that regular Mulethi powder has been proven to treat GERD.
The research is promising, but the preparation, dose and patient population matter.
4. Mulethi Contains Antioxidant Compounds
Mulethi contains several phytochemicals, including flavonoids and glycyrrhizin.
Laboratory and preclinical studies have reported antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities from different licorice compounds.
These findings help explain the continued scientific interest in Glycyrrhiza species.
However, laboratory findings should not be presented as proof that eating Mulethi will prevent or cure a particular disease.
Human clinical evidence remains the most important factor when making health claims.
5. Mulethi Has Been Studied for Oral Health
Licorice has also been investigated in oral-health preparations such as gargles and mouth rinses.
Some controlled studies have examined licorice for conditions including mouth ulcers and postoperative sore throat.
This suggests that particular licorice preparations may have useful local effects in the mouth and throat.
Still, persistent mouth ulcers, bleeding gums, dental pain or other ongoing oral problems should be evaluated by a dental or medical professional.
Mulethi for Cough and Sore Throat: How Is It Used?
Traditionally, Mulethi may be used in several ways.
Common approaches include:
- Chewing a small piece of clean Mulethi root
- Preparing a mild Mulethi herbal drink
- Using Mulethi in Ayurvedic formulations
- Using a commercially prepared licorice lozenge or gargle
The preparation matters because the concentration of active compounds can differ significantly between products.
How to Make a Simple Mulethi Herbal Drink
A basic traditional preparation can be made by:
- Taking a small amount of clean Mulethi root or a suitable packaged product.
- Adding it to hot water.
- Allowing it to steep.
- Straining the liquid.
- Drinking it warm.
Avoid assuming that making the drink stronger will make it more effective.
If you plan to consume concentrated Mulethi regularly, professional advice is preferable, especially if you have an existing medical condition.
Mulethi Powder: How to Use It
Mulethi powder is commonly sold through Ayurvedic stores, herbal shops and online retailers.
However, there is no single Mulethi dosage that is appropriate for everyone.
The correct amount depends on several factors, including:
- Whether it is root powder or an extract
- The concentration of glycyrrhizin
- Product quality
- Duration of use
- Age
- Existing health conditions
- Medicines being taken
Before using Mulethi powder regularly:
- Read the product label carefully.
- Check the ingredients.
- Determine whether it is whole-root powder or an extract.
- Follow the manufacturer’s serving instructions.
- Avoid combining several products containing licorice.
- Consult a healthcare professional if you take prescription medicines.
The biggest mistake is assuming that a traditional herb can be taken in unlimited amounts.
Mulethi vs DGL: What Is the Difference?
DGL stands for deglycyrrhizinated licorice.
It is licorice that has been processed to substantially reduce glycyrrhizin.
This distinction is important because glycyrrhizin is responsible for many of the safety concerns associated with high or prolonged licorice intake.
| Feature | Regular Mulethi | DGL |
| Glycyrrhizin | Present | Greatly reduced |
| Traditional licorice taste | Usually strong | Reduced |
| Common research interest | Traditional and broad uses | Digestive support |
| Glycyrrhizin-related concerns | More relevant | Reduced |
| Same as ordinary Mulethi? | No | No |
DGL has been studied for digestive and reflux-related symptoms, including in recent controlled research.
Therefore, evidence involving DGL should not automatically be applied to ordinary Mulethi powder.
Mulethi Side Effects
Mulethi is natural, but it is not risk-free.
The main safety concern is glycyrrhizin. Excessive or prolonged intake can affect fluid and electrolyte balance.
Potential side effects associated with excessive licorice intake include:
- Increased blood pressure
- Low potassium levels
- Fluid retention
- Swelling
- Headache
- Weakness
- Abnormal heart rhythm in serious cases
The risk can be greater in people who already have cardiovascular, kidney or blood-pressure problems.
This is why long-term self-medication with concentrated Mulethi is not recommended.
Does Mulethi Increase Blood Pressure?
Yes, ordinary glycyrrhizin-containing licorice can increase blood pressure in some people.
Glycyrrhizin can affect hormone pathways involved in sodium and water regulation. This may contribute to sodium retention, potassium loss and increased blood pressure.
People with hypertension should therefore be especially careful.
If you already have high blood pressure, do not assume that a small-looking herbal product is automatically safe.
Discuss regular or concentrated Mulethi use with your doctor or pharmacist.
Who Should Avoid or Limit Mulethi?
Extra caution is recommended for people with:
- High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
- Heart disease
- Low potassium
- Fluid-retention problems
- Certain liver conditions
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid medicinal or concentrated use unless advised by a qualified healthcare professional.
Children should not be given medicinal doses simply because Mulethi is traditionally used.
The European Medicines Agency highlights several conditions in which liquorice root may present additional risks, including hypertension, kidney disease, cardiovascular disease and hypokalemia.
Mulethi and Medicine Interactions
Mulethi can interact with certain medicines.
Particular caution is needed with medicines that affect:
- Blood pressure
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Fluid balance
- Heart rhythm
Examples can include some:
- Diuretics
- Blood-pressure medicines
- Cardiac medicines
- Corticosteroids
- Stimulant laxatives
If you take prescription medicines every day, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using concentrated Mulethi.
This is especially important if you are taking medicines for hypertension, heart disease or kidney problems.
How Much Mulethi Can You Take?
There is no universal daily Mulethi dose suitable for every person.
This is because Mulethi products vary considerably.
A product may contain:
- Whole root
- Powder
- Dry extract
- Liquid extract
- Standardized extract
- DGL
These forms can contain very different levels of active compounds.
Instead of following an arbitrary dosage from the internet, consider:
- What type of product are you using?
- Is it standardized?
- Does the label mention glycyrrhizin?
- How frequently are you taking it?
- How long do you plan to use it?
- Do you have a medical condition?
- Are you taking prescription medicines?
For prolonged medicinal use, professional guidance is the safest approach.
Common Mistakes When Using Mulethi
Mistake 1: Thinking natural means completely safe
Natural products can contain powerful biological compounds. Mulethi is a clear example.
Mistake 2: Taking large amounts
Increasing the amount does not necessarily increase the benefit.
Mistake 3: Using it for months without a break
Long-term exposure to glycyrrhizin can increase the risk of unwanted effects.
Mistake 4: Ignoring blood pressure
People with hypertension should be particularly cautious with ordinary licorice.
Mistake 5: Confusing DGL with regular Mulethi
DGL is processed differently and contains much less glycyrrhizin.
Mistake 6: Replacing medical treatment
Mulethi should not replace prescribed treatment for GERD, hypertension, infections or other medical conditions.
How to Choose Good-Quality Mulethi
If you are purchasing Mulethi powder or root, consider the following:
- Buy from a reputable manufacturer.
- Check the botanical name where available.
- Look for a clear ingredient list.
- Check manufacturing and expiry dates.
- Avoid products making unrealistic disease-cure claims.
- Look for appropriate quality-control information.
- For extracts, check whether active compounds are standardized.
Good herbal products should have transparent labeling rather than vague promises.
Is Mulethi a Miracle Herb?
No.
Mulethi is better understood as a traditional medicinal herb with biologically active compounds and promising evidence for certain specific applications.
Some research supports particular licorice preparations for throat-related discomfort and digestive symptoms. But evidence is not strong enough to support every health claim commonly made about Mulethi online.
The form of the product matters enormously.
Regular Mulethi root, concentrated licorice extract and DGL are not interchangeable.
This is why responsible herbal-health information should discuss both potential benefits and potential risks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mulethi
What is Mulethi?
Mulethi is licorice root, commonly associated with Glycyrrhiza glabra. It is known as Yashtimadhu in Ayurveda and is traditionally used in preparations for throat, respiratory and digestive wellness.
What are the main Mulethi benefits?
Mulethi is traditionally used for throat comfort, cough, respiratory support and digestion. Scientific evidence varies according to the condition and type of licorice preparation.
Is Mulethi good for cough?
Mulethi has a long history of traditional use in cough and throat preparations. However, persistent or severe cough should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Is Mulethi good for sore throat?
Some clinical research suggests that particular licorice preparations may help reduce certain types of throat discomfort.
Can Mulethi help with acidity?
Licorice has traditionally been used for digestive complaints. Research involving standardized DGL has shown promising results for certain reflux-related symptoms, but this should not be assumed to apply equally to ordinary Mulethi powder.
Does Mulethi increase blood pressure?
Yes. Glycyrrhizin-containing licorice can increase blood pressure, particularly when consumed excessively or for prolonged periods.
Can Mulethi be taken every day?
Regular long-term use of ordinary Mulethi should not be assumed to be safe. Dose, duration, product type and individual health conditions all matter.
What are Mulethi side effects?
Excessive or prolonged intake may contribute to high blood pressure, low potassium, fluid retention and, in serious cases, abnormal heart rhythm.
Who should avoid Mulethi?
People with hypertension, cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, low potassium or fluid-retention conditions should use particular caution.
What is DGL?
DGL means deglycyrrhizinated licorice. It is processed to substantially reduce glycyrrhizin and has been studied particularly for digestive complaints.
Is Mulethi the same as licorice?
Yes. Mulethi is the common Indian name for licorice root. The botanical identity commonly associated with Mulethi is Glycyrrhiza glabra.
Can Mulethi interact with medicines?
Yes. Licorice can interact with medicines affecting blood pressure, potassium, fluid balance and cardiac function.
Is Mulethi safe during pregnancy?
Concentrated medicinal use should not be started during pregnancy without professional advice.
Can children take Mulethi?
Children should not be given medicinal amounts of Mulethi without appropriate professional guidance.
Can Mulethi replace medical treatment?
No. Mulethi should not replace diagnosis or prescribed treatment for persistent or serious health problems.
Conclusion
Mulethi, also known as Yashtimadhu or licorice root, is one of the most recognized herbs in traditional Ayurvedic practice. It has traditionally been used for throat comfort, cough, respiratory preparations and digestive wellness.
Modern research has also investigated licorice compounds for several health applications, with some promising findings for specific preparations. However, the evidence does not support treating Mulethi as a cure-all.
The most important point is safety. Glycyrrhizin in ordinary Mulethi can affect blood pressure, potassium and fluid balance when consumed in excessive amounts or for long periods.
Therefore, use Mulethi thoughtfully. Choose quality products, avoid excessive intake, pay attention to medicine interactions and seek professional advice if you have hypertension, heart disease, kidney problems or another ongoing medical condition.
Mulethi can be a valuable traditional herb—but understanding its limits is just as important as understanding its potential benefits.
