Licorice/Mulethi: Benefits, Uses, Side Effects and More

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Mulethi powder, derived from the root of the licorice plant, has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Ayurvedic and Chinese practices.

Known for its distinct sweet flavor and numerous health benefits, mulethi powder is often considered a natural remedy for various ailments.

In this blog, we will explore the diverse benefits of mulethi, its uses in daily life, and how you can incorporate it into your wellness routine.

What is Mulethi?

Mulethi, or licorice, scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra is a perennial herb belongs to the Leguminosae family.

Mulethi is found throughout Asia, and in some parts of Europe.

The root of the plant is harvested, dried, and ground into a fine powder, which is then used for its medicinal properties.

Mulethi is not only celebrated for its health benefits but also for its culinary uses. Its sweet flavor makes it a popular ingredient in candies, herbal teas, and traditional sweets.

Licorice has been widely used as an antidote to counteract the toxicity caused by certain drug therapies in Traditional medicine.

In Ayurveda, it is classified as a “Rasayana,” symbolizing its nourishing, rejuvenating, and strengthening properties.

The rhizomes and roots of licorice are commonly used to address various health issues, including renal, liver, gastric, and respiratory disorders.

Health Benefits

below are the various health benefits offered by mulethi, also known as licorice.

1. Rich in Antioxidants 

Mulethi is a rich source of various antioxidants, which contribute to its various health benefits.

Antioxidants are the compounds that neutralize free radicals, preventing oxidative stress and damage to cells. They help protect the body from various diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and aging-related conditions by supporting overall health and well-being.

One of the most prominent compounds present in licorice roots is glycyrrhizin, along with the flavonoid liquiritin apioside.

Mulethi is also rich in saponins, chalcones, coumarins, flavonoids and phenolic compounds like liquiritigenin, isoliquiritigenin and glabridin.

Mulethi has shown antioxidative activity in cellular and animal studies.

Cellular and animal studies suggest that licorice phenolic extract has provided the best protection against oxidative stress and its polysaccharides could reduce oxidative stress and enhance antioxidant enzymes.

These antioxidants work together to combat oxidative damage and potentially reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

2. May Soothe Respiratory Problems

One of the most well-known benefits of mulethi powder is its ability to soothe respiratory conditions.

It has been traditionally used to alleviate coughs, bronchitis, sore throats and upper respiratory infections.

The World Health Organization notes that licorice is used as a soothing agent for sore throats and as an expectorant to help relieve bronchial congestion and coughs.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that causes airflow blockage, breathing difficulty, and symptoms like coughing and wheezing.

Animal and clinical studies reveal that licorice root extracts may help treat COPD and chronic asthma, while a licorice water gargle reduced sore throat incidence by 50%. These findings highlight its potential in respiratory health.

Licorice has been traditionally used to help treat ulcers due to its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

Studies suggest that licorice extract can significantly inhibit Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria often responsible for peptic ulcers. It works by blocking a key enzyme and preventing the bacteria from attaching to the stomach lining, enhancing treatment effectiveness.

However, a study on patients with gastric ulcer found no significant difference between licorice group and placebo.

Overall, these findings suggest that licorice may be particularly effective in treating ulcers related to H. pylori rather than being a general remedy for all ulcer types, indicating the need for further research on mulethi’s effects on various ulcers.

4. May Have Anti-inflammatory Properties 

Mulethi has potent anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for treating inflammatory conditions like arthritis or muscle pain.

An animal study found that licorice compounds like glycyrrhizic acid, liquiritin, and liquiritigenin reduced liver inflammation in mice and lowered pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, highlighting its potential to combat oxidative stress and inflammation-related disorders.

Other components of licorice has also shown similar effects.

Glycyrrhizin, a triterpene, along with other compounds in mulethi, inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory substances, providing relief from pain and swelling, as demonstrated in a study on mice.

Another compound licochalcone A, a chalcone derived from mulethI has also shown anti-inflammatory effects in mice with acute lung injury.

5. May Have Liver-protecting Properties 

As a rich source of antioxidants, mulethi may support liver health by assisting in detoxification and protecting the liver from damage.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a liver condition where excess fat builds up in the liver of people who drink little to no alcohol.

Clinical studies suggest that licorice extracts showed a significant drop in liver enzymes AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine aminotransferase) in patients with NAFLD.

High levels of AST and ALT in the blood indicate liver damage or inflammation, as these enzymes are released when liver cells are injured.

Studies suggest glycyrrhizin therapy may also slow the progression of liver disease to liver cancer in chronic hepatitis C patients by inhibiting the multiplication of virus.

Although the exact mechanism of glycyrrhizin’s antiviral action isn’t fully understood, one theory suggests it helps lower serum ALT levels by stabilizing liver cell membranes.

It’s also important to note that this study is  focused on glycyrrhizin, which may be present in lower concentrations in mulethi.

6. May Help with Dental Problems

Licorice may offer significant dental benefits due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, largely attributed to its active compound, glycyrrhizin.

Laboratory and clinical studies suggest that licorice helps reduce tooth enamel breakdown by lowering acid production in dental plaque.

Dental caries, or tooth decay, occurs when  harmful bacteria in dental plaque produce acids that damage tooth structure. Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, along with other bacteria, are the main culprits behind this process.

These bacteria feed on sugars, producing acid that gradually breaks down tooth structure, potentially leading to cavities.

Studies show that licorice helps reduce Streptococcus mutans levels, opening the door for future clinical trials exploring innovative uses, such as herbal lollipops.

7. Potential Anti-Cancer Properties

Mulethi shows promising anti-cancer potential due to its rich bioactive compounds.

Cellular and animal studies reveal licorice’s ability to inhibit the growth and promote the death of various cancer cells, including cervical, breast, liver, colon, pancreatic, and prostate cancer cells. The compound isoliquiritigenin is notably effective across many studies, while licochalcone A shows specific promise against pancreatic cancer cells.

Licorice has also shown potential against colon cancer, especially when combined with cisplatin (a chemotherapy drug) in animal studies and with ginger in both animal and cellular studies.

Additionally, glycyrrhizin from licorice may help inhibit fibrosarcoma and lung cancer.

These findings pave the way for human studies to uncover mulethi’s full potential as an anti-cancer treatment.

8. May Boost Immunity

Licorice, particularly its active compound glycyrrhizin, has shown potential in boosting immunity.

A trial tested glycyrrhizin and boswellic acids (GR+BA) on 50 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Results showed no deaths in the GR+BA group, faster recovery (7 vs. 12.5 days), improved clinical scores, and reduced inflammation.

While (GR+BA) has been found to be safe, affordable, antiviral, and immunity-boosting, larger and more extensive studies are needed.

In fact, glycyrrhizin has also been shown to enhance immunity in HIV patients by increasing CD4 lymphocytes, CD4-positive T-lymphocytes, and the CD4/CD8 ratio, all of which indicate a boosted immune response.

Although the results are promising, further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of licorice as a complementary treatment for HIV/AIDS. It is crucial for individuals to consult healthcare providers before incorporating it into their treatment plans.

9. Aids in Skin Health

Mulethi is not only beneficial for internal health but also for skin health. Its extract is renowned for skin-lightening properties, primarily due to the active compound glabridin.

Glabridin is a water-resistant substance derived from licorice root that helps reduce skin pigmentation.

Studies have shown that glabridin can effectively prevent dark spots and help treat skin hyperpigmentation. Interestingly, research also revealed that licorice extract, in its entirety, was even more effective at reducing tyrosinase activity than pure glabridin.

Due to its effects on pigmentation, glabridin is widely used in cosmetics.

In addition to glabridin, licorice contains other active compounds like glabrene and isoliquiritigenin, which help block the activity of tyrosinase, further enhancing its skin-lightening effect. Isoflavones and chalcones found in licorice are also considered potential agents for skin lightening.

Tyrosinase is an enzyme that induces melanin production, influencing skin pigmentation. Inhibition of tyrosinase activity lightens skin tone.

Mulethi doesn’t stop at skin lightening. Clinical studies suggest that licorice extract can treat various skin conditions.

For example, creams containing licorice or its compounds show promise in promoting anti-tyrosinase activity, making them effective for hyperpigmentation diseases.

Other clinical studies have also highlighted its potential against atopic dermatitis, photo-damage, and rosacea, with active compounds like glycyrrhetinic acid and licochalcone A proving particularly effective.

Mulethi may also provide anti-aging benefits, thanks to its antioxidative and photo protective properties.

A study using a gentle, eco-friendly licorice extraction method found that it has strong antioxidant, tyrosinase-inhibiting, and elastase-blocking properties, contributing to its anti-inflammatory effects and making it an ideal anti-aging ingredient.

Additionally, licorice has shown potential in treating acne, making it a versatile skincare ingredient.

10. Keeps Your Hair Healthy

Not only does mulethi offer numerous benefits for the skin, but it also has potential advantages for your hair.

Animal studies suggest that licorice can promote hair growth and reduce hairfall. The hair tonic containing ethanol extract of licorice showed hair growth results similar to control (minoxidil). It was also found to be stable and safe for topical use on the scalp.

Benefits of licorice for hair are not just limited to this, it has also been clinically proven to fight dandruff, which is a sign of flaky and inflamed skin.

Research also suggests that licochalcone A (a licorice compound) may help reduce inflammation markers and fungi linked to dandruff.

What’s more to think of, licorice can be your next best beauty regimen. Just give it a try, but use it in moderation and consult a dermatologist before use to ensure it’s safe for you!

How to Use Mulethi

Integrating mulethi into your lifestyle is easy and can be done in several ways:

• For Health: You can use mulethi powder in various ways like brewing tea, mix it with warm water or milk or you may just add it to smoothies. Licorice is also available in various forms like capsules, tinctures and in skincare products for topical application.
• Face Mask: Create a soothing face mask by mixing mulethi powder with yogurt, honey, or aloe vera gel. Apply to your face, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off.
• Hair Treatments: For healthy hair, mix mulethi powder with coconut oil and apply it to your scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it out. This treatment can help reduce dandruff and promote hair growth.

Precautions and Side Effects

Overdose

While mulethi powder offers numerous health benefits, it is essential to use it in moderation. Excessive consumption can lead to side effects, such as:

• High blood pressure
• Low potassium levels
• Kidney failure
• Congestive heart failure
• Arrhythmia (Irregular heartbeats)
• Pulmonary edema (Fluid in the lungs)

Always consult your doctor for optimal dosage before starting licorice or licorice supplements.

Who Should Avoid?

Individuals with certain health conditions, including hypertension, kidney disease, or those who are pregnant or lactating,  should consult a healthcare professional before using mulethi.

If you fall into any of these categories, it’s best to avoid mulethi or consult your doctor before use.

Drug Interactions

Licorice has been shown to interact with several medications, such as:

• Blood pressure medications
• Blood thinners
• Cholesterol-lowering drugs
• Diuretics
• Estrogen-based contraceptives
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

If you’re on any of these medications, avoid using mulethi unless prescribed by your doctor.

Takeaways

Mulethi powder is a remarkable herbal remedy with a wide range of benefits for health, skin, and hair.

From soothing respiratory issues to treating ulcers and enhancing skin radiance, mulethi is a versatile addition to your wellness toolkit.

By incorporating mulethi powder into your daily routine, you can harness its numerous benefits and support your overall well-being.

While some benefits of licorice are backed by solid research, others still need more studies to confirm their effects.

Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or pre-existing conditions before adding new supplements to your diet.

Embrace the goodness of mulethi powder and enjoy a healthier, more vibrant life!

 

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Top 10 Biotin Rich Foods
10 Amazing Foxtail Millet Benefits

 

 

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