Mulethi (Licorice): A sweet root with powerful healing benefits

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Dr. Mahjabeen Iqbal

Licorice, known locally as Mulethi, is a well-known herb in Pakistan’s traditional Unani and Ayurvedic medicine.

Found in herbal stores, home kitchens, and even school lunchboxes during winters, Mulethi has earned its reputation as a potent remedy for sore throats, coughs, and digestive ailments. But recent medical studies have brought this humble root into the limelight once again, highlighting its broader benefits and risks when used long-term or without proper care.

Traditional uses across Pakistan

Mulethi is often brewed into tea or chewed raw. In rural Punjab and Sindh, it is part of homemade herbal syrups (Joshanda) to treat cold and flu. In KP and Gilgit-Baltistan, it is used to soothe altitude-induced throat dryness. Grandmothers commonly prescribe Mulethi powder mixed with honey to treat mouth ulcers, while some even recommend it for memory enhancement and stamina. With its natural sweetness and cooling properties, it has become a staple during seasonal transitions.

Scientific evidence

Recent clinical research supports many of these traditional claims. Mulethi contains glycyrrhizin, a compound shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and immune-boosting effects. Studies suggest it helps reduce acid reflux, relieve stomach ulcers, and may even fight bacteria that cause dental caries. In a 2024 review by Aga Khan University researchers, licorice extract was shown to ease symptoms of chronic bronchitis and post-viral fatigue. Mulethi lozenges are now found in many over-the-counter sore throat medications sold across Pakistani pharmacies.

Potential uses in Pakistani healthcare

Given Pakistan’s heavy burden of respiratory diseases and digestive issues, especially in polluted urban centers like Lahore and Karachi, Mulethi could serve as a low-cost complementary therapy. It is being explored in community clinics as a non-pharmaceutical aid in asthma and peptic ulcer management. Additionally, its soothing effect on mucous membranes makes it beneficial for patients recovering from COVID-19 and heat-induced dehydration.

Precautions and side effects

Despite its many benefits, health experts caution that excessive or long-term use of Mulethi may lead to side effects. High doses can cause water retention, high blood pressure, and potassium deficiency, particularly in older adults or those with hypertension. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid high intake without consulting a physician. It should also not be combined with diuretics or steroid medications without professional advice.

Buying and storing Mulethi

Always buy Mulethi from reputable herbal stores to avoid adulteration. It should be dry, light brown, and have a naturally sweet aroma. Store in airtight jars away from sunlight and moisture. For tea, steep a small piece in hot water for 5–7 minutes. Avoid boiling, as it can make the tea too strong.

Quick Mulethi Remedies at Home

1. Sore Throat Tea: Steep 1-inch piece of Mulethi with 3–4 Tulsi (Holy Basil) leaves and a pinch of cinnamon. Add honey and lemon once cooled.

2. Anti-Ulcer Paste: Mix Mulethi powder with a teaspoon of honey and consume after meals to reduce acidity.

3. Cough Syrup: Boil Mulethi with fennel seeds (saunf), dry ginger (soonth), and jaggery (gur) in 2 cups water till half remains. Strain and sip warm.

In Summary

Mulethi is a natural remedy deeply rooted in Pakistan’s heritage, now backed by global science. It can be a safe and effective part of daily health routines when used wisely. But like all medicines—natural or not—moderation, awareness, and consultation are key.

For serious illnesses, consult a registered physician before starting any herbal treatment.