MULETHI
Botanical name:- Glycyrrhiza glabra
Family– Fabaceae
Common name:-
“Liquorice” means “Sweet Root”
Sanskrit name is : Yashtimadhu
English name : Sweetwood
Hindi name : Mulethi
Parts used- Roots
Chemical Constituents:-
The medicinal properties of mulethi is mainly because of the presence of powerful phytochemicals namely Flavonoids, Chalcones, Saponins and Xenoestrogens.
The Isoflavene Glabrene & the Isoflavane Glabridin, found in the roots of liquorice are Phytoestrogens.
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Mulethi Health Benefits:-
Antimicrobial activity:-
Mulethi is very effective in protecting against viruses, bacteria and fungi due to the presence of Glycyrrhizin that blocks microbial growth. The root extract possesses the power to control malaria, influenza and also helps in the treatment of herpes resulting in virus suppression and severity of sores.
Anti-inflammatory activity:-
Liquorice has powerful Anti-Inflammatory & Anti- Allergic activity that can be used to treat chronic inflammation like Rheumatic problems and Arthritis, Skin diseases and Auto-immune diseases.
Related: Benefits of Turmeric
Improves immunity:-
The root extracts of Mulethi aids in increasing the production of lymphocytes & macrophages thereby improving the defense mechanism and preventing microbial attack. It also helps in minimizing immune-related allergic reactions and autoimmune complications.
Cardio-vascular system:-
Research studies have proven that licorice roots help in controlling cholesterol levels by increasing the body’s flow of bile and reducing high blood cholesterol levels. The anti-oxidative property of licorice acts in increasing the blood capillary health, reducing inflammation, prevents blood vessel damage and block the development of arterial plaque.
Digestive system:-
The potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of licorice make it the best natural medicinal aid to treat ulcers of the stomach, intestine, mouth.
The compound Carbenoxolone synthesized from Glycyrrhizin plays a key role in healing mouth and gastric ulcers along with reducing gastric secretions and promoting the development of intestinal mucus lining.
It is one of the ancient home remedies for relieving constipation, acidity, heartburn, stomach discomfort and GERD (Gastro-esophageal acid reflux). As a mild laxative, it plays an effective role in bowel movements.
Conclusion
Licorice is also widely used in Chinese traditional herbs as a flavor. It is a powerful natural sweetener, 50–170 times sweeter than sucrose. Excessive consumption of Licorice is known to be toxic, hence it’s always advised to consult your Physician before consuming Mulethi.
