Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn. (Mulethi)

Introduction

Liquorice is a popular medicinal plant known for its naturally sweet taste. It comes from the plant called Glycyrrhiza glabra, which belongs to the bean family (Fabaceae). The roots of this plant are widely used in herbal medicines, home remedies, and as a flavouring agent in foods and medicines.

Common Names

• Mulethi (in Hindi)

• Yasthimadhu (in Ayurveda)

• Atimadhu

• Liquorice (in English)

Where It Grows (Habitat)

Liquorice grows naturally in Western Asia and Southern Europe. It is a perennial plant, which means it can live for many years. It prefers sunny climates and well-drained soils. Although it tastes similar to anise and fennel, it is not related to them botanically.

Plant Description

• Grows up to 120 cm tall

• The plant has several semi-woody stems that grow from a thick crown (called a stolon)

• The leaves are compound and pinnate (made up of small leaflets)

• Roots are thick, wrinkled, and yellowish-brown on the outside

• It has a characteristic sweet taste and pleasant smell

Important Chemical Components

The main active compound in Liquorice is called glycyrrhizic acid, which gives it the sweet taste and medicinal properties.
Other important chemicals are:

• Flavonoids (like isoliquiritin)

• Saponins

• Glycosides

These chemicals give Liquorice its antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and soothing effects.

Medicinal Uses and Health Benefits

Traditionally, Liquorice (Mulethi) is used for:

• Coughs, sore throat, and bronchitis

• As a natural expectorant (helps remove mucus from the lungs)

• Relieving peptic ulcers because of its stomach-protecting flavonoids

• As a flavouring agent in medicines like nausea drugs

Other health uses:

• Acts as an anti-spasmodic (helps relax muscles)

• Works like mild corticosteroids and is used in treating rheumatoid arthritis and inflammation

• Can help in Addison’s Disease (a hormonal disorder)

• Shows antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects

• Used in making tonics, laxatives, and digestive remedies

• Soothes gastric and stomach troubles

• Given in traditional Ayurvedic treatments for cough, ulcers, and weakness

Caution

While Mulethi is safe when taken in moderate amounts, excessive consumption can be harmful.
Large doses of Liquorice can cause:

• High blood pressure

• Water retention

• Muscle weakness

• Low potassium levels

People with heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney problems should avoid taking it in large quantities.

Other Uses

• Used to flavour chewing tobacco and snuff

• Added to sweets, candies, and herbal teas

• Used as a natural sweetener in some medicines

• Found in some cosmetic and skincare products for its anti-inflammatory effect