Mulethi Extract
Also known as: Mulethi, Licorice root, Licorice extract, Glycyrrhiza glabra
Overview
Mulethi extract, derived from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, is a widely used herbal supplement in traditional medicine. It contains key bioactive compounds such as glycyrrhizic acid, flavonoids, and triterpenes, which contribute to its diverse pharmacological effects. Primarily, it is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties. Research indicates its potential in addressing gastrointestinal disorders, supporting liver health, modulating metabolic processes, and influencing immune responses. While preclinical and clinical research, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, supports its efficacy, particularly in liver fibrosis and metabolic regulation, some studies note limitations such as small sample sizes and potential for bias.
Benefits
Mulethi extract offers several evidence-based benefits. It demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in gastrointestinal health, with preclinical studies showing potential efficacy in ulcerative colitis models. For liver health, a meta-analysis revealed that glycyrrhizic acid, a key component, significantly reduces markers of liver fibrosis like TGF-β1 and Smad mRNA expression, alongside statistically significant reductions in liver enzymes (mean difference -18.12 U/L, p=0.00). In the metabolic domain, clinical trials indicate that licorice consumption can lead to significant reductions in body weight and BMI, suggesting benefits for individuals with overweight or metabolic syndrome. While some evidence points to its role in pain reduction, high-quality randomized controlled trial data are currently limited for this specific application.
How it works
Mulethi extract exerts its effects primarily through glycyrrhizic acid, which modulates inflammatory pathways by downregulating key signaling molecules like TGF-β1 and Smad, crucial for fibrosis development. It also exhibits antioxidant properties, protecting cells from oxidative damage. Its metabolic influence may involve flavonoid-mediated pathways that impact lipid and glucose metabolism. Upon ingestion, glycyrrhizic acid is metabolized in the gut into glycyrrhetinic acid, which is the systemically absorbed active form. This active metabolite interacts with various molecular targets, including inflammatory cytokines in conditions like colitis and enzymes involved in metabolic regulation, contributing to its broad therapeutic profile.
Side effects
Mulethi extract is generally safe when used in moderate doses, but caution is advised due to potential side effects, primarily linked to glycyrrhizic acid. Common side effects include hypertension (high blood pressure), hypokalemia (low potassium levels), and edema (fluid retention), which result from its mineralocorticoid-like effects. Rare cases of pseudoaldosteronism can occur, especially with high doses or prolonged use. Mulethi may interact with several medications, including diuretics, corticosteroids, and antihypertensive drugs, potentially altering their effects. It is contraindicated in patients with pre-existing hypertension, kidney disease, or heart failure, who should avoid its use or consult a medical professional. Pregnant women and children should also avoid mulethi due to insufficient safety data.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of glycyrrhizic acid from mulethi extract varies, but clinical studies have shown effects in liver fibrosis and metabolic conditions with doses around 75–150 mg/day. Optimal dosage ranges typically fall between 100–200 mg of glycyrrhizic acid per day in clinical trials. It is crucial to use standardized extracts with known glycyrrhizic acid content for consistency. The maximum safe dose is generally not to exceed 200 mg of glycyrrhizic acid per day to minimize the risk of adverse effects. Mulethi extract is usually administered orally, with or without food, though absorption can be influenced by gut microbiota. No specific cofactors are required, but monitoring electrolytes is recommended during prolonged use.
FAQs
Is mulethi extract safe for long-term use?
Long-term use may cause side effects related to glycyrrhizic acid, such as hypertension and hypokalemia. Monitoring blood pressure and electrolytes is advised during prolonged use.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Metabolic and liver-related benefits have been observed within weeks to months in clinical trials, but individual responses may vary.
Can it be used for weight loss alone?
It may support weight management by reducing body weight and BMI, but it should not replace comprehensive lifestyle interventions for weight loss.
Does it interact with medications?
Yes, it can interact with medications, especially those affecting blood pressure and potassium levels, such as diuretics and antihypertensives.
Is glycyrrhizic acid the only active component?
No, while glycyrrhizic acid is a primary active compound, flavonoids and other triterpenes also contribute to mulethi extract's beneficial effects.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35671864/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of licorice extract in ulcerative colitis models. The findings suggest that licorice extract and its active compounds hold potential for treating ulcerative colitis, providing a rationale for further clinical trials despite some limitations in study quality and sample sizes.
- https://www.scielo.br/j/cta/a/8BkTCwd3yPd43tqdpQ3f9NQ/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis, including both human and animal studies, evaluated the effect of glycyrrhizic acid on liver fibrosis. It concluded that glycyrrhizic acid significantly reduces key markers of liver fibrosis, such as TGF-β1 and Smad mRNA expression, and liver enzymes, indicating its hepatoprotective potential.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29433679/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials examined the metabolic effects of licorice consumption. The study found significant reductions in body weight and BMI among participants, suggesting that licorice may have beneficial effects for individuals with overweight or metabolic syndrome, though some heterogeneity in study designs was noted.
- https://www.ijclinicaltrials.com/index.php/ijct/article/view/871 – This clinical evidence review discusses the potential of licorice in pain management. While some evidence suggests its utility in certain pain conditions, the review highlights the need for more high-quality randomized controlled trial data to conclusively establish its efficacy and optimal use for pain relief.