Archive · 17 Dec 2025
Mulethi Side Effects: Health Risks and Who Should Avoid It
Mulethi, or licorice root, is a plant-based remedy used for treating sore throats and coughs.
While it's natural, it contains a compound called glycyrrhizin that can cause some health issues.
This compound can make your body hold onto too much salt and water, which might raise your blood pressure.
It can also lower the amount of potassium in your body, leading to weakness and muscle cramps.
Some people might notice swelling in their legs due to fluid buildup.
Additionally, mulethi can interfere with hormones, causing headaches or irregular menstrual cycles.
People with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney problems, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid mulethi.
There's a safer version called DGL licorice, but it's still important to use it carefully and talk to a doctor first.
Mulethi contains glycyrrhizin, which can raise blood pressure by causing the body to retain sodium and water.
Regular or high-dose consumption of mulethi can lead to low potassium levels, causing weakness, fatigue, and muscle cramps.
Some people may experience fluid retention and swelling in the ankles, feet, or lower legs due to mulethi consumption.
Mulethi can interfere with hormone activity, potentially causing headaches, irregular menstrual cycles, or fatigue.
People with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disorders, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid regular mulethi use.
- Who
- People consuming mulethi regularly, especially those with certain health conditions
- What
- Potential side effects of mulethi (licorice root) consumption
- When
- When consumed in large amounts or regularly
- Where
- Globally, as mulethi is used in various traditional medicines
- Why
- Due to the presence of glycyrrhizin, which can affect the body's handling of salt, water, and hormones
- Active Compound
- Glycyrrhizin
- Potential Side Effects
- Raised blood pressure, low potassium levels, fluid retention, hormone-related effects
- High-Risk Groups
- People with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disorders, pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Safer Alternative
- Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL)
- Medical Advice
- Consult a healthcare professional before regular use