Liquorice Root / Jeshthamadh

Glycyrrhiza glabra is a flowering plant with a sweet root. It is native to Western Asia, North Africa, the Mediterranean region and Southern Europe. Liquorice root is also colloquially called Jeshthamadh or Mulethi. It is also referred to as Yashtimashu in Ayurveda and has been mentioned in old ayurvedic scriptures for curing many ailments. 

The short herb grows all through the year and is commonly spotted in temperate zones. Glycyrrhiza is derived from the Greek word glycol which means sweet and the word rrhiza which means root. Liquorice uses are common in ayurvedic, traditional and alternative medicine due to its healing properties.

Several Ayurvedic scriptures have mentioned its medicinal properties like varna (improves skin complexion), kanthaya (improves voice quality), good for eyes, jeevanaya (promotes long life), and sandhanaya (healing of a fracture or wound healing). Mulethi is beneficial in pacifying aggravated pitta and Vata dosha. Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn is commonly known as Yashti-Madhu.

The dynamism of liquorice root helps with kidney diseases, and the lung, liver, and circulatory system. Today, liquorice uses have been used as dietary supplements which helps with:

* Menopausal symptoms

* Cough

* Digestive problems

* Viral infections

* Bacterial

Plant compounds

The primary active compound is glycyrrhizin, which gives it a sweet taste and healing properties. The rich root is great for:

* Antioxidant

* Anti-inflammatory

* Antimicrobial properties

Perfect for various Skin Conditions

Liquorice root has over 300 compounds that make it effective in anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral effects. Jeshthamadh works on the skin conditions like acne and eczema.

Reduces Stomach Issues

Jeshthamadh is great for indigestion, which curbs acid reflux, and deals with an upset stomach, and heartburn. Liquorice root helps people suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It cures irritants like stomach acid and speeds up the repair.

Curbs Peptic Ulcers

If you are suffering from painful sores in your stomach, you could have peptic ulcer. It happens in your lower oesophagus or even your small intestine. Liquorice root fights H. pylori bacteria, which is one of the major reasons for peptic ulcers.

Eases Respiratory Conditions

The potent liquorice root is great for upper respiratory conditions and treats sore throats. Root tea reduces minor irritations and adverse effects of cough and curbs colds. Herbal remedies with this rich root are the best for asthma symptoms.

Protect Against Cavities

The Jeshthamadh root fights bacteria that cause cavities and tooth decay. For centuries, chewing liquorice root has been advised to avoid tooth decay. Its antimicrobial properties inhibit cavity-causing bacteria.

Oral Care Expert

The anti-inflammatory and analgesic property of liquorice root reduces tooth pain. The rejuvenating property gives good health to gums and strengthens them to keep teeth healthy. The Antiseptic action fights and minimizes tooth decay and other gum infection.

Treats Canker Sores

Canker sores are shallow lesions that develop in your mouth. Some people also have it in the base of their gums making eating and talking difficult. This is when the Deglycyrrhizinated Liquorice (DGL) helps you. DGL has the Jeshthamadh root’s soothing and healing qualities. You can apply any product with DGL on the inside linings of the mouth.

Liquorice can be found as a liquid extract, chewable tablets, capsules, powder, and loose herbs. Please remember that liquorice root is not the same as liquorice candy. 

We hope you may make the best use of liquorice benefits, now that you know its healing and curative properties.