Yashtimadhu, also known as Licorice or Mulethi, is one of Ayurveda’s most revered herbs.Most common use that people know about Mulethi is in cough or sore throat.But there are multiple uses of Yashtimadhu or Mulethi in Ayurveda .Its multifaceted benefits make it a key herb in various Ayurvedic formulations and therapies.
Properties of Yashtimadhu-
Mulethi is called Glycyrrhiza glabra scientifically. The active components of Mulethi, primarily glycyrrhizin(compound in the roots of Mulethi (Yashtimadhu) is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties), are concentrated in its root. It also contains Flavonoids(supporting heart and skin health),Saponins(Known for their immune-boosting abilities),Phytoestrogens(These plant-based compounds support hormonal balance)
Rasa (Taste): Madhura (Sweet)
Guna (Qualities): Guru (Heavy), Snigdha (Unctuous)
Virya (Potency): Sheeta (Cooling)
Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Madhura
Effect on Doshas: Pacifies Vata and Pitta
Key Benefits of Yashtimadhu-
1.Natural Sun Protection & Skin Healer-
In Charak Samhita Yashtimadhu is included in Varnayakar mahakashay(group of herbs beneficial for enhancing complexion, improving skin tone, and promoting skin health).It can be used as mukhlepam by mixing yashtimadhu churn with honey ,gulabjal,curd for healthy and glowing skin.
2.Respiratory Support-
It acts as an expectorant and soothes the throat,helps relieve cough, bronchitis, asthma, and hoarseness.
3.Digestive Health-
Due to its pittshamak property it reduces acidity, gastritis, and ulcers,Heals inflamed stomach lining,useful in peptic ulcers .
4.Anti-inflammatory & Healing-
Promotes wound healing, both internally and externally.
5.Stress Relief and Memory Booster-
Yashtimadhu acts as a potent Medhya Rasayana—a brain and memory rejuvenator.Helps combat mental fatigue, anxiety, and stress.Acharya Charaka classifies Yashtimadhu among the four primary Medhya Rasayanas, which are renowned for enhancing cognitive and neurological functions.
6.Hormonal Balance-
Hormonal imbalances can lead to hair loss, mood swings, and irregular cycles in women. Yashtimadhu contains phytoestrogens, plant-based compounds that naturally support hormonal balance and can give relief in these symptoms.
Ayurvedic References of Yashtimadhu-
यष्टीमधु मधुरा स्निग्धा शीतवीर्य्या रसायनी |
वातकफापहा पित्तघ्नी च कान्त्या चाक्षुष्या ||Charaka Samhita
Yashtimadhu is sweet, unctuous, cooling, rejuvenating, pacifies Vata and Pitta, good for throat, and enhances vision.
Varnya Mahakashaya (Complexion-enhancing group):
मधुकं मांसी सरिवा चन्दनं पद्मकं तथा |
नीलोत्पलं उत्तमं चैव तगरं कुस्तुम्बुरुं तथा ||
एते द्रव्याणि वर्ण्याख्ये प्रसिद्धानि महाकशायेषु ||Charaka Sutrasthana, Chapter 4
"Madhukaḥ" also know as yashtimadhu is mentioned in this sloka
— Charaka Samhita, Sutra Sthana 4/10
यष्टिमधुका मेध्या च बल्या च रसायनी ||—Charak Samhita 1/3
Yashtimadhu is Classified as a Medhya Rasayana, Enhances memory, intellect, and overall brain function, Acts as a rejuvenator (Rasayana)
मधुरा गुरु शीता च कान्त्या वर्ण्या रसायनी |
त्वच्या कृच्छ्रातीसारघ्नी शोफकुष्ठकफापहा |Bhavaprakasha Nighantu
Yashtimadhu is kantya, varnya, rasayana, useful in krichchha (difficulty in swallowing), atisara, etc.
Use of Yashtimadhu Churn for Sore Throat -
Warm Water Decoction (Kwath):
Method: Boil 1 teaspoon of Yashtimadhu Churna in 1 glass (200–250 ml) of water until it reduces to half.
Usage: Gargle with this lukewarm decoction 2–3 times a day.
Benefit: Soothes throat inflammation and reduces pain.
Conclusion-
Yashtimadhu is a versatile Ayurvedic herb that brings sweet healing to the body and mind. Whether you are looking to soothe your throat, calm your gut, balance hormones, or rejuvenate your skin, Yashtimadhu offers gentle yet powerful support. Integrating this time-tested remedy into your routine—with expert advice—can unlock its full healing potential.
