What is Mulethi Powder?

Trusted for centuries, crafted for today

Trusted for centuries, crafted for today

What is Mulethi Powder?

Mulethi powder (licorice root, Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a classical Ayurvedic remedy known as Yashtimadhu. It has been used for over 4,000 years in Ayurveda, Unani, and folk medicine for respiratory comfort, digestive health, immunity, and skin care. Modern studies confirm its anti‑inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

Origins & Names

Scientific Name: Glycyrrhiza glabra

Ayurvedic Name: Yashtimadhu

Common Names: Mulethi (Hindi), Jethimadh (Marathi), Adhimadhuram (Tamil), Licorice (English)

Family: Fabaceae

Native to Europe and Asia, widely cultivated in India.

Nutritional Profile (per 100g daried root)

Energy: ~375 kcal

Carbohydrates: 92 g

Protein: 0.8 g

Calcium: 12 mg

Iron: 0.2 mg

Contains glycyrrhizin, a compound ~50 times sweeter than sugar, plus flavonoids, saponins, and essential oils.

Ayurvedic Properties

Ayurvedic texts classify mulethi as:

Deepana: Enhances digestive fire

Kashahara: Relieves cough

Rasayana: Rejuvenates the body, promotes longevity

Varnya: Improves complexion

Balya: Strengthens muscles and immunity

Kanthya: Improves voice and throat health

Key Health Benefits

Respiratory Relief: Soothes sore throat, cough, bronchitis.

Digestive Support: Reduces acidity, indigestion, and ulcers.

Immunity Boost: Strengthens natural defenses.

Skin Care: Lightens pigmentation, reduces acne marks, improves glow.

Stress & Vitality: Acts as a Rasayana herb, supporting energy and longevity.

Common Uses

Herbal Tea/Kadha: Brewed for cough and immunity.

Face Packs: Mixed with honey/turmeric for skin brightening.

Digestive Tonic: Taken with warm water for gut health.

Natural Sweetener: Used in recipes due to its mild sweetness.

Preparation (Traditional Method)

Wash fresh mulethi roots.

Dry under sunlight for 7–10 days.

Grind into fine powder.

Sieve and store in airtight containers

Precautions

Excessive use may raise blood pressure due to glycyrrhizin.

Not recommended for pregnant women, heart/kidney patients without medical advice.

Safe dosage: ½–1 teaspoon daily or as directed by an Ayurvedic practitioner.