Licorice (Mulethi)
Yashtimadhu (यष्टिमधु)
Licorice (Mulethi) (Yashtimadhu (यष्टिमधु)) is a medicinal herbs treasured in Ayurvedic nutrition. Key benefits include pacifies vata dosha, promoting groundedness and calm in the nervous system and cools and soothes pitta dosha, reducing excess heat and inflammation. Best enjoyed during all-seasons.
Ayurvedic Profile
Licorice (Mulethi) (Yashtimadhu (यष्टिमधु)) is a medicinal herbs treasured in Ayurvedic nutrition. Referenced in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu, it is characterized by sweet rasa (taste), cooling virya (potency), and sweet vipaka (post-digestive effect). Yashtimadhu (sweet stick) is one of the most versatile Ayurvedic herbs, classified as Jivaniya (life-giving) and Sandhaniya (tissue-healing); it soothes Pitta in the GI tract, supports vocal quality, and is a renowned Medhya Rasayana. Its heavy and oily gunas make it particularly suited for specific constitutional types. It pacifies Vata, pacifies Pitta, and can aggravate Kapha when consumed in excess. From a nutritional standpoint, licorice (mulethi) provides approximately 375 calories per 100g, with 0.0g protein, 93.6g carbohydrates, and is a valuable source of Glycyrrhizin, Flavonoids, Calcium. Best enjoyed during all-seasons, licorice (mulethi) supports healthy Agni (digestive fire) when prepared according to Ayurvedic principles, helping prevent Ama (toxin) accumulation and nourish the dhatus (body tissues).
Ayurvedic Properties
Rasa (Taste)
sweet
Virya (Potency)
cold
Vipaka (Post-digestive)
sweet
Guna (Qualities)
heavy, oily
Nutrition Facts (per 100g)
375kcal
Calories
0g
Protein
93.6g
Carbs
0.1g
Fat
0g
Fiber
Ayurvedic Benefits
- Pacifies Vata dosha, promoting groundedness and calm in the nervous system
- Cools and soothes Pitta dosha, reducing excess heat and inflammation
- Nourishes body tissues (dhatus) and promotes Ojas through its sweet rasa
- Provides sustained energy and builds strength in body tissues
- Lubricates joints and nourishes skin from within
- Rich source of Glycyrrhizin, supporting overall health and vitality
How to Use
- Prepare licorice (mulethi) as a herbal decoction (Kashaya) by simmering in water for 15-20 minutes
- Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for proper dosage of licorice (mulethi) as a therapeutic herb
- Take licorice (mulethi) with warm water or honey as an Anupana (vehicle) to enhance absorption
- Use fresh licorice (mulethi) when available, as it retains more Prana (life force) than dried forms
- Combine licorice (mulethi) with ghee or warm milk for enhanced bioavailability of active compounds
Contraindications
- Avoid overeating licorice (mulethi) if you have a Kapha constitution as large quantities may contribute to heaviness and sluggish digestion
- During cold seasons or when Agni is weak, combine licorice (mulethi) with warming spices to counteract its cooling nature
- Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before using licorice (mulethi) therapeutically if you are pregnant, nursing, or on medication
Frequently Asked Questions
Licorice (Mulethi) is particularly beneficial for Vata dosha due to its sweet rasa and cooling virya. However, Ayurveda teaches that any food can be made suitable through proper preparation, combination with complementary spices, and appropriate portion sizes.
According to Ayurvedic Ritucharya (seasonal regimen), licorice (mulethi) is best enjoyed during all-seasons. For optimal digestion, consume it during lunch when Agni (digestive fire) is at its peak. Eating seasonally ensures you receive maximum Prana and nutritional benefit from your food.
Ayurveda recommends preparing licorice (mulethi) with complementary spices that balance its inherent qualities. Given its cooling virya and sweet taste, pair it with warming ingredients. Cooking with ghee enhances bioavailability and helps carry its therapeutic properties deeper into the tissues.