Yashtimadhu (Mulethi)Yaṣṭimadhu
Pacifies Vata and Pitta; aggravates Kapha in excess.
Glycyrrhiza glabra · Demulcent · Soothing
What Ayurveda says
Pacifies Vata and Pitta; aggravates Kapha in excess.
Traditional uses
- ·Sore throat, dry cough, hoarseness
- ·Hyperacidity and peptic ulcer
- ·Adrenal support
- ·Eye-wash component (with Triphala)
How it is taken
1/4–1/2 tsp (1–3 g) powder with honey or warm water 2–3 times daily; or as kashaya. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) form for long-term ulcer use.
Avoid in
- ✕Hypertension, congestive heart failure, edema
- ✕Hypokalemia or on potassium-wasting diuretics
- ✕Pregnancy (associated with preterm delivery at high doses)
- ✕Liver cirrhosis, severe renal disease
- ✕With digoxin, corticosteroids, MAOIs, oral contraceptives
Allergies
Fabaceae family.
Classical alternatives
For long-term gastric protection, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) or Shatavari + Yashtimadhu Ghrita.
When to see a doctor
Persistent or severe symptoms, pregnancy, children under 12, anyone on prescription medication, and any new or worsening condition should be reviewed by a qualified clinician (GP or vaidya) before starting Yashtimadhu (Mulethi). Glycyrrhizin causes sodium/water retention, hypokalemia, and hypertension with prolonged use over ~6 weeks. Use DGL for long-term protocols.
Citations & sources
The information presented here is for educational and general wellbeing purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, prescription, treatment or a cure for any condition, and is not a substitute for conventional medical care.
Ayurvedic herbs and formulations contain potent substances that can interact with medications and may be unsafe for certain conditions. Always consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional before use. Ayurveda is classified as a complementary therapy in the UK and complements, rather than replaces, conventional treatment. We do not operate as registered medical doctors. Stop immediately and seek care if any symptom worsens; in an emergency call 999 or NHS 111.