Can I chew mulethi every day before singing?

It is better to rest the voice and keep mulethi occasional.

Does it help a sore throat too?

Yes, it can soothe a scratchy throat.

Is mulethi the same as licorice candy?

No, candy is mostly sugar and flavour; mulethi is the dried root.

Chewing a Mulethi Stick for a Hoarse Voice

A small piece of mulethi stick held in the mouth and chewed slowly, a traditional remedy used by singers and teachers for a tired, hoarse voice.

Important: this remedy is only a supportive home measure. Keep taking any medicine your doctor has prescribed, monitor your readings, and consult your doctor before adding anything new.

The Ayurvedic view of mulethi

Mulethi (licorice root, yashtimadhu) is naturally sweet and soothing, which is why it shows up in throat remedies. It contains glycyrrhizin, which in larger or longer use can raise blood pressure and lower potassium.

Many classical singers keep a piece of mulethi in their pocket. Its sweet juice soothes the throat. Keep it occasional; daily mulethi can raise blood pressure.

Ingredients

1 small piece (2 to 3 cm) mulethi stick

How to prepare

Wash and dry the stick; break off a small piece.

How to use

Chew slowly and suck the juice for 10 to 15 minutes; spit out the fibre.
Use for a day or two when your voice is tired.

Helpful habits

Buy dry yellow sticks; they keep for months in a closed jar.

Precautions

Not for people with high BP, heart or kidney problems, or in pregnancy.
Avoid with high BP, heart or kidney disease and in pregnancy.
Keep use short, a few days at a time.
Traditional use; scientific evidence is limited. Do not stop prescribed medicine.

Frequently asked questions

Can I chew mulethi every day before singing?: It is better to rest the voice and keep mulethi occasional.
Does it help a sore throat too?: Yes, it can soothe a scratchy throat.
Is mulethi the same as licorice candy?: No, candy is mostly sugar and flavour; mulethi is the dried root.