Can We Eat Raw Mulethi? Understanding the Risks and Safe Alternatives

December 13, 2025 •

4 min read

While chewing on a raw mulethi stick is a traditional remedy for a sore throat, modern research and traditional Ayurvedic practices advise against uncontrolled or prolonged consumption of the raw root due to potential health risks. The powerful compound glycyrrhizin, which gives mulethi its characteristic sweetness, is also responsible for adverse effects when ingested in high doses.

Quick Summary

It is generally not recommended to eat raw mulethi due to the high concentration of glycyrrhizin, which can cause severe side effects. This article details the health risks, outlines safer consumption alternatives like powder and tea, and provides a comparison of raw versus processed mulethi to help readers make informed health decisions.

Key Points

High Glycyrrhizin Risk: Eating raw mulethi can lead to an overdose of glycyrrhizin, a compound that can cause high blood pressure, low potassium levels, and heart problems.
Moderate, Short-Term Use Only: The risks of glycyrrhizin toxicity are highest with prolonged or excessive consumption. For most people, short-term and moderate use of processed mulethi is considered safe.
Processed is Safer: Consuming mulethi in controlled forms like standardized powders, teas, or capsules reduces the risk of side effects compared to eating the raw root directly.
Avoid If at Risk: People with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney issues, or hormonal conditions should avoid mulethi or consult a doctor first.
Chewing is for Short-Term Relief: Chewing a small, clean, dried stick is traditionally used for local throat soothing but should be done in moderation and not swallowed in large quantities.
Listen to Your Body: Watch for any symptoms like headaches, swelling, or muscle weakness and stop consumption immediately if they occur.

Why Raw Mulethi Poses a Risk

For centuries, mulethi (licorice root, or Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been a staple in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for its soothing properties for the throat and digestive system. However, the notion of simply chewing on the raw root, especially in unregulated quantities, is fraught with potential dangers. The primary cause for concern is a compound called glycyrrhizin, which can be 30 to 50 times sweeter than sugar and is abundant in the raw root.

The Dangers of Glycyrrhizin Overconsumption

When consumed excessively, either in terms of dosage or duration, glycyrrhizin can lead to serious health complications. These issues arise because glycyrrhizin can mimic the hormone aldosterone, interfering with the body's electrolyte balance. The body starts to retain sodium and excrete potassium, a condition known as pseudohyperaldosteronism.

Potential Health Complications

Raised Blood Pressure (Hypertension): The increase in sodium retention can cause elevated blood pressure, which is particularly dangerous for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or hypertension.
Lowered Potassium Levels (Hypokalemia): The loss of potassium can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, and potentially dangerous heart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmia).
Hormonal Imbalances: Due to its estrogenic properties, long-term or excessive intake can disrupt normal hormone levels, a risk for pregnant women, those breastfeeding, or individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions.
Fluid Retention (Edema): The body's attempt to retain sodium can lead to bloating, swelling, and water retention, putting additional strain on the heart.

Safer Ways to Consume Mulethi

Given the risks associated with eating raw mulethi, it is far safer to opt for processed and moderated forms of the herb. Most commercially available products, like powders and extracts, have been processed to control the concentration of active compounds, or in some cases, the glycyrrhizin has been removed (deglycyrrhizinated licorice, or DGL).

Common and Safe Preparations

Mulethi Powder (Churna): One of the most popular forms in Ayurveda, the dried and ground root is often mixed with honey or warm milk. A typical recommended dose is 1-2 teaspoons daily for a short period.
Mulethi Tea: Brewing a small piece of the dried root or a teaspoon of powder in hot water is a gentle and effective way to consume mulethi. This allows for a measured intake and a soothing effect.
Chewing Processed Sticks: While chewing a raw stick is risky, chewing on a small, clean, dried piece for a short duration is a traditional way to relieve a sore throat. This provides a local, topical effect rather than a large systemic dose.
Topical Application: When mixed with a medium like honey, milk, or rosewater, mulethi powder can be applied as a paste to the skin to treat inflammation or blemishes, bypassing internal consumption entirely.

A Comparison of Raw vs. Processed Mulethi


Feature	Raw Mulethi Root	Processed Mulethi (Powder, Tea)
Glycyrrhizin Content	High and uncontrolled.	Moderate and measured; can be removed entirely (DGL).
Associated Risks	Hypertension, hypokalemia, hormonal issues, fluid retention with prolonged use.	Low risk when consumed in moderation and for short periods.
Recommended Use	Avoid internal consumption; occasional, short chewing for throat soothing.	Daily use possible in measured doses for specific, short-term ailments.
Processing	None, increasing risk of contaminants.	Dried, cleaned, and ground, controlling dosage and purity.
Primary Benefit	Direct, strong effect on local irritations.	Controlled, systemic benefits for digestion, respiratory health, and immunity.

The Verdict: Proceed with Caution

While the natural, unprocessed form of mulethi might seem appealing, the risks of excessive glycyrrhizin are too significant to ignore. The safest approach is to utilize mulethi in controlled, processed forms like tea, powder, or capsules, adhering to recommended dosages and usage periods. Always consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating mulethi into your routine, especially if you have existing health conditions like high blood pressure, kidney disease, or are pregnant. This caution is the best way to reap the herb's benefits without endangering your health. For more general information on herbal safety, resources from reputable health bodies can be valuable.

Conclusion

In summary, the answer to "Can we eat raw mulethi?" is a definitive no for regular or prolonged internal use. The high and uncontrolled concentration of glycyrrhizin in the raw root poses a serious risk of adverse health effects, including dangerous fluctuations in blood pressure and electrolyte balance. The traditional wisdom and modern understanding of mulethi both point towards safer consumption methods, such as utilizing properly processed powder, tea, or controlled extracts. By choosing these alternatives and consulting with a healthcare provider, you can safely enjoy the therapeutic benefits of this powerful Ayurvedic herb while minimizing risk. More information can be found at this reliable source on licorice root and its effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main risk is an overdose of glycyrrhizin, which can cause high blood pressure, low potassium levels (hypokalemia), and fluid retention (edema) due to its effect on hormones that regulate electrolytes.

Chewing a small, clean, dried mulethi stick for a short time can provide temporary relief for a sore throat. However, it should be done in moderation and not regularly, as swallowing large amounts of the raw root can still pose risks.

The safest ways to consume mulethi are through controlled preparations like powders, teas, or standardized supplements. This allows for measured, moderate doses and avoids the risks associated with the high, uncontrolled glycyrrhizin content in the raw root.

Individuals with high blood pressure, heart conditions, kidney disease, or hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer or endometriosis should avoid mulethi. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid it.

DGL is a form of licorice where the glycyrrhizin has been removed. It is generally considered a much safer option, especially for long-term use, as it avoids the risks of blood pressure and electrolyte issues associated with high glycyrrhizin intake.

Yes, mulethi can interact with several medications, including blood pressure drugs, diuretics, corticosteroids, and certain heart medicines. It is crucial to consult a doctor if you are on any long-term medication.

In safe, moderate doses, mulethi can offer benefits such as soothing digestive issues, relieving respiratory problems like coughs and colds, and providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.