Mulethi or licorice is an age-old remedy for different types of ills. This herb has been celebrated for its medicinal properties and distinctive flavour since ancient times. Its root specifically is consumed in different ways. Mulethi can be especially useful as part of your monsoon diet. Given that the rainy season is in full swing, you need to be very careful about the foods and drinks you choose. If you don't, you risk falling sick more easily. This is where mulethi-based drinks may help. And the best thing is that they are pretty easy to make at home too. Find out more below.
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Here Are 4 Key Health Benefits Of Mulethi (Licorice Root):
Mulethi Drinks For Monsoon: These homemade concoctions can have several benefits. Photo Credit: iStock
1. Helps relieve cough and cold
Mulethi has long been used as a home remedy for sore throat and related issues. It can also help those suffering from cough, bronchitis, asthma, respiratory infections, etc. This is one of the main reasons why you should consider adding it to your monsoon diet.
2. Boosts immunity
Low immunity is another common problem, especially during monsoon. Mulethi is known to have anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antiviral properties. Thus, it can work wonders for one's immunity. It also contains antioxidants that can help fight against free radical damage.
3. Good for digestion
Mulethi is said to relieve constipation, stomach pain, heartburn, acidity, etc. Drinking simple mulethi tea is a natural way to manage indigestion. The active compounds present in mulethi may also help combat gastric and peptic ulcers.
4. May help with menstrual cramps
Mulethi is believed to have an antispasmodic effect. It may help relax your muscles and reduce discomfort caused due to cramping. Research suggests that mulethi may also help manage PCOS and menopausal symptoms.
Also Read: How Drinking Lemongrass Tea Can Help With Digestion And Detox
Mulethi may also help prevent tooth decay, according to some studies. Now that you know why it's good for you, check out how to add it to your diet:
Here Are 5 Healthy And Easy Mulethi Drink Recipes For Monsoon:
Healthy Drinks For Monsoon: You can make simple teas and herbal concoctions with mulethi. Photo Credit: iStock
1. Mulethi Water
This is the simplest way of consuming mulethi. All you need to do is boil a piece of 3-inch long mulethi bark with a glass of water. Strain and drink it first thing in the morning. Celebrity nutritionist Lovneet Batra claims that this homemade drink can help those suffering from PCOS. Find out more here.
2. Mulethi-Ginger Tea
Mulethi and ginger are a power-packed combination any time of the year, but especially when the weather turns colder. Their combined benefits can boost your immunity and help fight against seasonal infections. To make this hot beverage, you have to add some mulethi and grated ginger while brewing regular tea. Click here for the complete recipe.
3. Mulethi-Laung Chai
Another great combo for monsoon is mulethi and laung (clove). Like mulethi, laung is known to have antiviral, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Just a few sips of this special chai are enough to soothe you. You can make this drink with green tea, black tea or milk tea. Here's the full recipe.
4. Rose-Mulethi Tea
Now this is an interesting drink with a surprising flavour. Rose has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can improve metabolism as well as immunity. You need just 4 ingredients for making this tea: dried/ fresh rose petals, mulethi, water and a sweetener. We recommend some organic jaggery or honey instead of refined sugar. Find the recipe here.
5. Herbal Kadha With Mulethi
Kadha is a traditional concoction with various spices and herbs that should be a part of your monsoon diet. Adding some mulethi to it only enhances its effectiveness. For one such recipe, click here. You can always customise the ingredients in the kadha, based on availability/ personal taste.
Also Read: 7 Turmeric Recipes To Boost Immunity This Monsoon Season
It is important to consume mulethi in moderation and only after consulting your doctor if you are on medications or if you have underlying health conditions. Pregnant women and people with high blood pressure are especially cautioned against having it without consultation.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.