Yashtimadhu - Benefits, uses & side effects

Yashtimadhu also known as mulethi or licorice is botanically known as Glycyrrhiza Glabra. This flowering plant's root has been used in Ayurvedic formulations for centuries. Let us look at the properties and composition of this herb and how Yashtimadhu uses can benefit your health, hair and skin. 

What is Yashtimadhu?

Yashtimadhu where ‘Yashti’ stands for wood and ‘madhu’ meaning honey, is also known as liquorice (not the candy, the herb). It is a herb-like plant with sweet roots, which is known to be 40 - 50 times sweeter than sugar. While it is popular as a flavoring herb it has been in Ayurveda for centuries for its plethora of  health benefits. Yashtimadhu uses have been touted in ancient Egypt, China and Greece for its therapeutic effects and it is especially useful in the treatment of hair fall. 

Yashtimadhu uses are beneficial because of its components. Here's what it has: 

The main chemical component of yashtimadhu is glycyrrhizin (about 2-9%), a triterpene saponin with low haemolytic index. Glycyrrhetinic (glycyrrhetic) acid (0.5-0.9%), the aglycon of glycyrrhizin is also present in the root. Other active constituents include phytosterols, isoflavonoids, chalcones, coumarins, triterpenoids and sterols, lignans, amino acids, amines, gums, mineral salts (such as calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, iron, magnesium, silicon, selenium, manganese, zinc, and copper), vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, E, and C) and volatile oils

Yashtimadhu uses stems from its properties of being  adaptogenic, antacid, cooling, nootropic, immunity boosting, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-obesogenic, analgesic, an antidepressant making it the ultimate multipurpose herb. No wonder it has the reputation of being the ultimate grandma’s remedy for cough and sore throat.

Yashtimadhu benefits:

1. Yashtimadhu uses for gastric issues and stomach ulcers

Yashtimadhu powder has anti-inflammatory, antacid, analgesic and antiulcerative qualities. That is why it is considered as a traditional Ayurvedic remedy for alleviating the symptoms of indigestion, constipation, acidity, gastritis, stomach and mouth ulcers. In fact the glycyrrhizic acid is also known to suppress the growth of h. pylori. It is great to reduce discomfort from any inflammatory stomach conditions. But it should not be used as a substitute for modern medicine in case of a serious health risk.   

2. Yashtimadhu uses for cough

When it comes to how one can  reduce a cough and cold, Yashtimadhu powder always comes to the rescue. Additionally, this is one of the herbal medicines for colds in India that may help in relieving  sore throat, bronchitis, throat irritation, cough, and other upper respiratory problems. Furthermore, with expectorant properties, it may ease the coughing and may reduce the cough accumulated in the lungs. Moreover, with antibacterial properties,  Yashtimadhu powder may help to reduce the infection of the upper respiratory tract.

Also Read : Nasya - The Nasal Route To Better Health

3. Yashtimadhu uses for respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis

Yashtimadhu has been traditionally touted as a herbal medicine for respiratory conditions from cough, cold, asthma, and bronchitis. Being anti-inflammatory and expectorant in nature it soothes the respiratory tracts and helps relieve chest congestion, asthma, bronchitis and loosens phlegm to expel mucus. All in all it boosts respiratory and pulmonary health.

4. Yashtimadhu uses for lipid level

It is known to help reduce the serum lipid level and hepatic lipid level in the body. Yashtimdhu uses includes converting the lipids into bile to help in promoting healthy weight management. It may help to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol (low density cholesterol) and triglycerides in the body. It prevents the deposition of plaque in the blood vessels and also deters formation of hardened arteries thus reducing the risk of heart blocks, strokes and heart attacks. However, if you have underlying health conditions it is best to consult with your doctors before taking yashtimadhu root powder as a supplement.

5. Yashtimadhu uses regulating blood sugar levels

The licorice root powder contains a potent phytoestrogenic compound called glabridin which not only imparts the sweet taste to the root but also plays a crucial role in regulating the blood sugar levels of the body. The production of insulin from the β-pancreatic cells becomes active with the consumption of Yashtimadhu powder. Adequate dosage of the powder also helps to reduce the breakdown of starch into glucose and hence manages diabetes. However, if you have underlying health conditions it is best to consult with your doctors before taking yashtimadhu root powder as a supplement.

6. Yashtimadhu uses for hormonal balance 

The phytoestrogenic bio-active substances present in yashtimadhu are considered beneficial for maintaining hormonal balance. It can therefore help alleviate menstrual cramps, mood swings, hot flashes, insomnia, sweating during the menstrual cycle. In fact yashtimadhu may also be prescribed to new mothers to regulate hormones and increase the production and secretion of breast milk.

7. Yashtimadhu uses to boost immunity

It is known to boost overall stamina and energy. The bio-active ingredients in Yashtimadhu reduce general debility, weakness and fatigue and improve the vitality of the body. The antimicrobial property of Yashtimadhu helps to bolster immunity and shields the body from various microbial infections. It also improves the function of the liver, kidney and adrenal glands which in turn helps in reducing the stress levels on the body.

Also Read : Effects Of Stress On The Body

8. Yashtimadhu uses for hair and skin

Yashtimadhu powder plays a crucial role in promoting hair growth. It  increases blood circulation to the scalp and hair follicles, which boosts blood flow. Not only is it rich in antioxidants it also prevents premature ageing of your follicles and reduces signs of ageing such as wrinkles and fine lines. Yashtimadhu also helps boost sleep quality and reduce stress. Therefore, it fixes hair and skin concerns that are triggered because of this. 

9. Yashtimadhu uses for liver

Imbued with anti-inflammatory properties, Yashtimadhu might help alleviate symptoms of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, liver damage, hepatitis and jaundice. It overall helps boost liver function and therefore, improve metabolism. 

10. Yashtimadhu used for weight management 

Yashtimadhu root is considered to be an effective Ayurvedic remedy for weight loss. There have also been studies that show that the presence of flavonoids help in weight management. But any weight loss remedy is only effective with a proper diet and workout regime. 

11. Yashtimadhu uses for premature ejaculation 

Yashtimadhu is believed to be beneficial for those suffering from premature ejaculation. Generally, hyper-excitement or hypersensitivity along with anxiety is a cause of early discharge in men. YAshtimadhu helps manage that and keeps you calm and relaxed. 

What Are The Benefits of Yashtimadhu for Hair Fall?

Stress and sleep are two of the main triggers of hair loss. Yashtimadhu is known to promote sleep quality and reduce stress and therefore helps reduce hair loss triggered due to these factors. Not only that it is also packed with flavonoids and phytoestrogens that help improve scalp and hair health. Hair experts say an imbalance of pitta and vata doshas results in hair loss. Yashtimadhu has proven effective in balancing both. It soothes scalp irritation, dandruff, and increases blood flow to hair follicles to have a nourishing effect. And its minty quality stimulates hair growth. In fact, recent studies prove that the hydro-alcoholic extract of Yashtimadhu showed excellent hair regrowth promoting activity. When compared to the standard drug, 2% concentration of licorice extract showed similar stimulatory activity as 2% Minoxidil. And that it can be safely used in herbal formulations in the treatment of various types of Alopecia. It is therefore part of the Traya hair loss treatment in the form of Nasya therapy.

Tips and Uses of Yashtimadhu

1. Yashtimadhu Tea:

Ingredients:

1 piece of Yashtimadhu root, 1 tsp grated ginger, 2 tsp of tea leaves of choice, 1 tbsp milk, Sugar as per taste.

Method:

Boil water in a large pan. Add the piece of Yashtimadhu root and ginger to it. Simmer for 5 minutes. Add the tea leaves and again simmer for 5 minutes.

Add milk and sugar for taste. Boil it for a minute and filter the tea. Enjoy a cup of tasty Yashtimadhu chai.

2. Yashtimadhu Powder At Home:

Ingredients:

20 parts of fresh Yashtimadhu roots.

Method:

Cut the fresh roots from the Yashtimadhu plant. Wash them properly with water to remove soil and other impurities. Cut the roots into pieces and allow it to dry under direct sunlight. Keep it under the sun for a week or so until there is no moisture left. Ground the dried root in a grinder till it becomes a fine powder. Air-dry the powder to remove any extra moisture. Pass it through sieve no.100 to remove fine impurities. Store it in cool places in airtight containers for future use.

3. Yashtimadhu Water:

Ingredients:

1tbsp Yashtimadhu powder and a pinch of lemon juice.

Method:

Warm a glass of water. Soak the Yashtimadhu powder in it overnight.Warm the Yashtimadhu-infused water again, the next morning. Add a pinch of lemon juice for taste. Consume it on an empty stomach.

4. Nasal Drops:

Method:

Tilt your head and pour the  Traya Shatavari Ghrita nasal drops in your nostrils (based on the dosage in your prescription). There might be a residual taste of ghee in your throat after, but that’s absolutely normal. If you want to get rid of it just gargle with some lukewarm water.

Yashtimadhu Side Effects:

There are the obvious benefits of consuming Yashtimadhu or applying it topically, but there are certain side effects that you should remember. However, when not used correctly and without proper prescription it may have side-effects. You are not recommended to use yashtimadhu: 

• If you have low potassium levels in blood
• If you have a history of cancer of the ovary, breast or uterus
• If you have had uterine fibroids

The following people should take Yashtimadhu only under medical supervision, people- 

• With kidney problems.
• With heart issues.
• With high blood pressure or hypertension.
• With a nerve disorder or psychiatric problems.
• Having erectile dysfunction problems.
• Using birth control pills or hormonal medicines.

Pregnant women should avoid it as it is believed to contain estrogenic properties. It could interrupt the menstrual cycle and hence is to be taken only under doctor’s advice.

Do not mix your grapefruit products with Yashtimadhu as they might have some undesirable effects. Do not chew tobacco flavored Yashtimadhu as it could raise your blood pressure radically. Take care not to take Yashtimadhu with other medication/supplements that can have laxative effects.

This is a superhero herb known for its ability to alleviate stress and promotes sleep. And we know that between deadlines, Netflix and functioning as an adult you need both of those things.

Takeaway

Yashtimadhu is an effective traditional remedy for multiple health, hair and skin related concerns. However, it should be taken under medical supervision with proper prescription. If you are suffering from hair loss due to sleep and stress, reach out to us to get a customised treatment which includes yashtimadhu as part of the nasya therapy. If you are not sure what is causing your hair loss you can fill the Traya hair diagnosis form for free to find out