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Yashtimadhu (Licorice Root)

Licorice (Licorice Root)

Glycyrrhiza glabra

Sweet root that soothes throat, stomach lining and dry cough.

Licorice plant · Shrub · Parts: Root

Taste (rasa)
Sweet, bitter
Energy (virya)
Cooling
Balances
Vata, Pitta

What it is used for

Benefits

  • Demulcent action calms sore throat and dry cough
  • Traditionally used for gastric irritation and hyperacidity
  • Supports voice and speech in classical practice

How it has been used

Traditional uses & benefits

Yashtimadhu is sweet, cooling and soothing — the classical remedy for a raw throat and an irritated gut lining.

Traditional uses

  • Dry cough and sore, scratchy throat
  • Soothing acidity and gastric heat
  • Voice care for singers and teachers

Practical guidance

  1. 1A small stick chewed slowly, or a warm decoction sipped, is the traditional method.
  2. 2Use in short courses of 2–4 weeks, then pause.
  3. 3Avoid with high blood pressure, on diuretics, or in pregnancy.

How much

Dosage

1-2 g powder daily, short courses of no more than 4-6 weeks.

How to take it

Preparation & usage

Throat infusion

Steep 1/2 tsp powder in hot water for 10 minutes; sip slowly with honey.

Twice daily for a raw throat

Read this first

Precautions

  • Raises blood pressure and lowers potassium with prolonged use
  • Avoid with hypertension, kidney disease or in pregnancy
  • Interacts with diuretics and corticosteroids

Where this comes from

Sources

Used forImmunity & RecoveryDigestion & Gut

Common questions

What is Licorice used for?

Sweet root that soothes throat, stomach lining and dry cough. In traditional use the main applications are: Demulcent action calms sore throat and dry cough; Traditionally used for gastric irritation and hyperacidity; Supports voice and speech in classical practice.

What is the typical dosage of Licorice?

1-2 g powder daily, short courses of no more than 4-6 weeks. Amounts vary with age, constitution and health status, so confirm your own dose with a qualified practitioner.

How and when should Licorice be taken?

Throat infusion: Steep 1/2 tsp powder in hot water for 10 minutes; sip slowly with honey. Timing — Twice daily for a raw throat

Are there any precautions with Licorice?

Raises blood pressure and lowers potassium with prolonged use Avoid with hypertension, kidney disease or in pregnancy Interacts with diuretics and corticosteroids Speak to a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take prescription medication.

Does Licorice replace medical treatment?

No. This page documents traditional Ayurvedic use for education; it is not a diagnosis or treatment and does not replace prescribed medication or professional advice.

Where to buy

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If you buy, look for a batch-tested product that states the botanical name and tests for heavy metals. Check with your doctor first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding.