English Name: Liquorice
Hindi Name: Mulethi, Jethimadhu
Sanskrit Name: Yastimadhuka, Yastika, Madhuka
Latin Name: Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn Pennell
A hardy leguminous under shrub attaining the height of about 3 meter with compressed pods. It is found growing wild in many Asian countries and is also cultivated at small scales in India, Iran, and Afghanistan etc. The root tastes sweet and is used in Ayurveda.
Application
Yashtimadhu has been conventionally used by Ayurveda in the treatment of respiratory and digestive disorders. It is considered to be a "Rasayana". Its use is specifically indicated in the treatment of chronic acidity, ulcers and chronic bronchial conditions. Investigations observed that Yashtimadhu activates ulcer healing. Also it acts as an antistress and anabolic agent.
Chemical composition
Roots contain glycyrrhizin, Glycyrrhizic acid, Glycyrrhetinic acid, asparagin, sugar, starch, acid resin, gum, mucilage, phosphoric, sulfuric & malic acids. Bark contains a small quantity of tannins.
Effect on dosha
Pacifies vata and pitta.
