Mulethi (Licorice Root)

Mulethi is the Hindi name for licorice root. It is sold as sticks, powder and tea.

Updated Oct 20, 2026. Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.

Where to buy

Indian grocery stores often stock mulethi sticks and powder. Ayurvedic shops and health food stores carry it too. Online, search both mulethi and licorice root.

Professional insight

Herbalists check the species name and whether glycyrrhizin was removed. Freshness of the root comes next.

Glycyrrhiza glabra is the usual mulethi species.
DGL products have the glycyrrhizin taken out.
Licorice candy often has no licorice root.
Whole sticks should snap and smell sweet.

Check the label

Botanical name: Glycyrrhiza glabra.
Part used is the root.
Says whole, powder, extract or DGL.
Best-by date and batch number are printed.
Country of origin is stated.
Warnings for blood pressure or pregnancy are present.
Food grade or supplement facts panel is shown.

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Types

Dried sticks

Whole or cut root. Often chewed or simmered for tea.

Powder

Ground root for mixing. Loses aroma faster than sticks.

Tea bags

Often blended with other herbs. Check the full ingredient list.

DGL tablets

Licorice with glycyrrhizin removed. Sold as a supplement.

Safe use

Follow the product label for amounts.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before regular use.
Avoid large amounts during pregnancy.
Tell your doctor if you take diuretics or heart medicine.
Corticosteroid users should check for interactions.

Storage

Keep sticks and powder in an airtight jar.
Store away from heat, light and steam.
Discard if it smells musty or shows mold.
Use powder within its best-by date.

Common questions

Is mulethi the same as licorice root?: Yes. Mulethi is the common Hindi name for licorice root.
What is DGL?: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice. The compound linked to blood pressure effects is removed.
Does black licorice candy count?: Usually not. Many candies use anise flavor, not real root.