by Mulethi, also known as licorice, is very popular in the Ayurvedic world. Known as Yashtimadhu, mulethi is great for our health. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-aging, healing, rejuvenating and immune-boosting properties. A 2013 study published by the National Library of Medicine also found that licorice extract helps improve hyperpigmentation. Read on to find out what an expert has to say about using mulethi for skin lightening.
Health Shots connected with Mumbai-based Ayurvedic expert Dr. Lakshmi Varma K to learn all about mulethi and skincare.
Benefits of mulethi
Mulethi is commonly used in Ayurvedic formulations. Its extensive use in medicine is due to its long list of benefits. Dr. Varma claims that it helps improve eye, hair, brain and skin health. It is very useful in case of fever, sore throat, allergies and skin diseases. In fact, it is a common herb used in Indian homes to treat sore throats.
Mulethi is great for the skin as it –
1. Prevents Sun Damage to Skin
It helps to treat sunburn, protect against UV rays and eliminate dark spots due to overexposure to the sun. Thus, it helps to restore the natural color of your skin.
2. Reduces wrinkles
Thanks to its anti-aging, rejuvenating and antioxidant properties, mulethi helps restore skin tone and reduce wrinkles.
3. Helps Minimize Scars
It has healing properties that facilitate wound healing and prevent dark scars after injuries, thus keeping the skin free from blemishes.
4. Heals Skin Ailments
Its antifungal, antimicrobial, antitoxic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help fight against various skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and fungal infections, explains the expert.
5. Prevents Acne and Soothes Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory, anti-toxic and antioxidant properties of mulethi help remove toxins from the skin. This helps to control the formation of acne and also helps to soothe the irritated and burning sensations caused by acne or any external environmental irritants.
Mulethi for skin lightening
It has been part of Indian skincare since ancient times. Mulethi helps improve complexion and brighten skin. Dr. Varma says it is a very good remedy for hyperpigmentation and melasma.
Tips for using Mulethi
You can use Mulethi by adding it to your face masks or taking it with milk. Here are some easy ways to use Mulethi for skin lightening or to treat hyperpigmentation:
1. Yashtimadhu Ksheerapaka
Ksheerapaka means milk decoction. Take a teaspoon of mulethi and a quarter teaspoon of turmeric and add them to a glass of milk. Drink it at night so it can help with skin conditions by purifying the blood.
2. Yashtimadhu face masks
• Use mulethi powder with a turmeric and rosewater face mask to fight acne and inflammation.
• Mulethi powder and kumkumadi oil will help fight dry skin and dark spots.
• Mulethi powder with milk and multani mitti is a good home remedy for dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
• Mulethi powder and sandalwood powder are also good for hyperpigmentation and oily skin.
The expert claims that mulethi masks can be used for at least 3-6 months for great results. External use can be done daily without any complications. But for internal use, you need proper dosage and consultation with an expert. Use Mulethi with caution if you are pregnant, have high blood sugar, or are taking blood pressure medication.
But for most people, mulethi is an effective home remedy for skin problems, including hyperpigmentation.
