Licorice in Tamil: Uses, Benefits & How to Use Athimathuram

Key Takeaways

1. Licorice is called "Athimathuram" in Tamil and has traditionally been used for throat, digestive, oral, and general wellness.

2. Licorice powder and licorice extract aren't the same thing. Extracts tend to be more concentrated, while DGL has had most of its glycyrrhizin stripped out.

3. Licorice may help with throat and oral wellness, but most of the clinical research is on specific preparations: lozenges, gargles, pastes, and mouthwashes, not plain Athimathuram powder.

4. There's no established need to take Athimathuram powder every day. How much is appropriate depends on the product, and taking more doesn't mean getting more benefit.

5. Long-term or heavy licorice use can cause problems. Its glycyrrhizin content can affect blood pressure, potassium levels, and fluid balance, so anyone with certain health conditions or on medication should check with a doctor before using it regularly.

Licorice is a type of sweet herb having medicinal value in the form of roots. It is popularly known by the name Athimathuram (அதிமதுரம்) in the Tamil language. The roots of the plant can be powdered and used in medicine to treat conditions like throat infections and digestive system discomforts. But there is one more aspect of the licorice that needs attention.

The root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that can cause problems when licorice is consumed in large amounts or for long periods. Knowing how Athimathuram is used and when it should be avoided is just as important as knowing its traditional benefits.

What is Licorice?

Licorice is the root of plants from the Glycyrrhiza genus. Glycyrrhiza glabra is one of the commonly used species. It has a naturally sweet flavor and includes certain plant substances such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids. The use of licorice has been a traditional practice in different regions of Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Licorice can be accessed in different forms today, including dried root, powder, tea, and extracts.

What Is Licorice Called in Tamil?

Athimathuram is the Tamil name for Licorice. The Tamil term is அதிமதுரம். It is derived from the intrinsic sweet flavor of its roots. It is also one of the ingredients in many herbal formulations.

Athimathuram Meaning in Tamil

Athimathuram is the name of a sweet and medicinal root known as licorice. Traditionally, the dried root can be used in its entirety, grounded, or in combination with other herbs. When "Athimathuram powder" is mentioned, it is most likely ground licorice root.

Licorice vs. Athimathuram: Are They the Same?

Yes. Athimathuram (अतिमधुरम् / அதிமதுரம்) is simply the Tamil/Telugu regional name for Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). Scientifically, culturally, and botanically, they are 100% identical.

However, when shopping for health remedies or skincare ingredients, you will see licorice sold in three distinct forms. Understanding these differences is crucial for safety and efficacy:

Whole Root Powder (Athimathuram Podi)

• What it is: Raw, sun-dried root ground into powder.
• Best for: Traditional teas, homemade face packs, and mild cough relief.
• Key detail: Contains natural levels of glycyrrhizin (3-5%), which can raise blood pressure if used in large amounts over time.

Concentrated Extract

• What it is: A chemically processed form isolating key active compounds like glabridin.
• Best for: Commercial skin serums, targeted supplements, and pharmaceuticals.
• Key detail: Far more potent than raw powder; requires precise, smaller dosages.

Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)

• What it is: Licorice processed to remove almost all glycyrrhizin.
• Best for: Long-term gut health, acid reflux, and stomach ulcers.
• Key detail: Safe for people with high blood pressure, as the compound that causes spikes is removed.

What Is Licorice or Athimathuram Powder?

Athimathuram powder is made by drying the licorice root and grinding it into a fine powder. It is usually taken as part of a traditional preparation rather than as a conventional food. The composition of the powder can vary depending on the plant source and processing method. That is why there is no single dose that can be applied to every licorice powder available on the market.

• Variable Strength: Active compounds vary by soil, climate, and processing, meaning there is no universal single dose for raw powders.
• Differs from Clinical Studies: Research uses concentrated, standardized extracts, so study results don't directly apply to a household spoonful of raw powder.

Nutritional and Natural Compounds Found in Licorice

Licorice (Athimathuram) contains over 400 bioactive compounds. Its primary active ingredients and nutrients include:

Glycyrrhizin (Saponin)

• Role: Gives the root its signature sweet taste (50x sweeter than sugar).
• Effect: Provides strong anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties but can raise blood pressure in excess.

Flavonoids (Glabridin & Liquiritin)

• Role: Potent natural antioxidants.
• Effect: Glabridin inhibits melanin production for skin brightening, while Liquiritin aids in soothing stomach lining irritation.

Polysaccharides & Plant Sterols

• Role: Complex carbohydrates and plant fats.
• Effect: Forms a protective mucilage layer to calm sore throats and gut ulcers.

Essential Minerals & Nutrients

• Trace amounts: Contains iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and essential amino acids that support general cellular health.

Traditional Uses of Licorice in Tamil Medicine

Athimathuram has traditionally been used for several everyday health concerns. Its sweet taste and soothing nature have made it especially common in preparations intended for the throat. Tamil Traditional use can explain why an herb has remained popular, but it should not be treated as clinical proof on its own.

Licorice for Throat and Respiratory Wellness

People have used licorice for sore throats, coughs, and other respiratory complaints for centuries. According to research published in the National Library of Medicine, licorice gargles or lozenges can help cut down on sore throats after certain surgeries. That's a narrow finding tied to specific preparations; it doesn't mean licorice treats a respiratory infection.

Licorice for Digestive Wellness

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial reported in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine discovered that a licorice-root extract with low levels of glycyrrhizin was able to relieve symptoms of indigestion after 30 days.

Licorice for Oral and Mouth Wellness

Licorice shows up in oral health research too, since some of its compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. A systematic review in the Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences looked at trials of topical licorice for recurrent mouth ulcers and found possible improvements in pain, ulcer size, and healing time.

Worth noting: most of those trials used topical products such as pastes, patches, and mouthwashes, not licorice powder taken by mouth.

Licorice for Skin Wellness

Licorice extract turns up in some skincare products, and compounds like glabridin have been studied for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. There's some early research on topical licorice for skin conditions, but it's far from settled, and none of it says anything about oral Athimathuram powder.

Licorice as a Traditional Cooling Ingredient

Athimathuram is sometimes described as a cooling ingredient in traditional Indian medicine. This is a traditional classification. It should not be interpreted to mean that licorice has been clinically shown to lower body temperature or treat heat-related illness.

Tamil Traditional Benefits of Licorice Powder

Licorice powder may provide certain traditional wellness benefits, but the strength of scientific evidence varies considerably.

1. Throat and Respiratory Wellness

Licorice has been used since ancient times for curing any kind of throat ailment. Studies conducted on particular throat gargles and throat lozenges indicate the effectiveness of licorice against sore throats but not all licorice.

2. Digestive Health

Licorice has also been known to be effective in assisting digestion, but there is no evidence for using licorice powder in treating such digestive conditions.

3. Oral Health

Topical licorice preparations have shown encouraging results for recurrent mouth ulcers. That's a different thing from eating licorice powder; it won't prevent dental disease or substitute for dental care.

4. Antioxidant Support

Licorice has various phytochemicals that have antioxidant effects. However, human trials in support of the benefits of licorice are very limited.

5. Skin Wellness

The extract of licorice is used in ointments that treat irritated and discolored skin. Most studies conducted on this have involved licorice in its topical form and not in the form of Athimathuram powder orally consumed.

6. Overall Daily Wellness

Licorice has a place in traditional herbal practice, but there's no strong evidence that healthy adults need it daily. With herbs like this, more isn't automatically better—dose and duration matter.

How to Use Licorice (Athimathuram) Powder?

Athimathuram powder is traditionally mixed with water or added to herbal preparations. The amount should follow the directions provided for the specific product.

There is no universally established daily dose for ordinary licorice powder. Concentrated extracts can contain very different amounts of active compounds, so a dose used in a clinical trial should not simply be copied for powdered root.

People using licorice regularly should also pay attention to the glycyrrhizin content when it is provided on the product label.

How to Take Licorice Powder for Different Wellness Goals?

For Throat Wellness

Athimathuram powder may be used in a traditional warm-water preparation. It should be considered a supportive measure rather than treatment for an infection. A sore throat that persists, becomes severe, or occurs with difficulty breathing or swallowing needs medical attention.

For Digestive Wellness

If using Athimathuram as part of a digestive preparation, follow the product directions. Increasing the quantity is not a reliable way to obtain better results. Persistent stomach pain, vomiting, unexplained weight loss or continuing digestive problems should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

For Skin Wellness

Licorice powder taken orally should not be confused with topical licorice extract. If the goal is skin care, a properly formulated topical product is more appropriate than applying raw powder directly to the skin.

Best Time to Take Licorice Powder

There is no scientifically established time of day that is considered best for taking ordinary licorice powder. The preparation and recommended serving are more important than whether it is taken in the morning or evening. If a product has specific instructions, follow those directions.

How Often Can You Use Athimathuram Powder?

The frequency depends on the product and the reason for using it. Occasional traditional use is different from taking licorice every day for several months. Long-term exposure to glycyrrhizin can cause sodium and fluid retention, lower potassium levels, and increased blood pressure. A systematic review has also reported an association between regular licorice consumption, hypertension, and low potassium.

Can You Take Athimathuram Powder Every Day?

Daily use should be approached with caution. Large amounts or long-term use of licorice can cause serious effects, including abnormal heart rhythms. People with high blood pressure, heart disease, or kidney disease may be more vulnerable. Licorice can also interact with certain medicines. Anyone taking prescription medication should discuss regular use with a healthcare professional.

Can Men and Women Use Athimathuram Powder?

Men and women can use licorice-containing products when appropriate. There is no general restriction based simply on sex. Pregnancy is different. High oral consumption of licorice has been associated with safety concerns during pregnancy. Pregnant women should speak with a healthcare professional before using medicinal amounts of licorice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Licorice Powder

• Assuming that a natural herb is automatically safe in large amounts.
• Taking more powder because it is expected to provide faster results.
• Confusing ordinary licorice with DGL.
• Applying research on concentrated extracts directly to raw powder.
• Using licorice continuously without considering glycyrrhizin exposure.
• Using it instead of medical treatment for persistent symptoms.
• Ignoring unusual swelling, muscle weakness, palpitations, or increased blood pressure.
• Failing to check for possible interactions with regular medicines.

Conclusion

Licorice, known as "Athimathuram" in Tamil, is a traditional herbal root with a long history of use. It is commonly used in preparations for throat comfort and digestive support, while modern research has also examined its potential role in oral and skin health.

Some findings are encouraging, particularly for specific topical preparations. Still, evidence for ordinary Athimathuram powder remains limited for many of the benefits commonly advertised online.

The main point to remember is that licorice is not simply a harmless herb that can be taken without limits. Its glycyrrhizin content can affect blood pressure, potassium, and fluid balance when consumed excessively or for long periods. Used thoughtfully, Athimathuram can have a place in traditional wellness practices, but it should not replace appropriate medical care.

FAQs on Licorice or Athimathuram -

Q1. What is Athimathuram in Tamil?

Athimathuram (அதிமதுரம்) is the Tamil name commonly used for licorice root. It is a sweet-tasting herb traditionally used in various herbal preparations.

Q2. Is Athimathuram the same as licorice?

Yes. Athimathuram generally refers to licorice root, particularly Glycyrrhiza glabra. However, licorice powder, extracts, and DGL are different preparations and may contain different amounts of active compounds.

Q3. What is Athimathuram powder used for?

Athimathuram powder is traditionally used to support throat comfort, digestion, and oral wellness. It is also used in some traditional preparations for general wellness.

Q4. What are the benefits of Athimathuram powder?

Athimathuram may support throat, digestive, oral, and skin wellness. However, the strength of evidence varies, and some research involves specific licorice extracts rather than ordinary root powder.

Q5. How do you use Licorice powder?

Licorice powder is traditionally mixed with water or added to herbal preparations. Follow the serving instructions provided with the specific product, as there is no single standard dose for every licorice powder.

Q6. Can Licorice powder be taken every day?

Daily use is not necessary for everyone and should be approached with caution. Long-term or excessive intake of glycyrrhizin-containing licorice may affect blood pressure, potassium levels, and fluid balance.

Q7. What is the best time to take Athimathuram powder?

There is no scientifically established best time to take ordinary Athimathuram powder. The recommended serving and product instructions are more important than taking it at a particular time of day.

Q8. Can Licorice powder be taken with honey?

Licorice powder is traditionally combined with ingredients such as honey in some preparations, particularly for throat comfort. However, honey does not make excessive licorice consumption safer, so the recommended amount of licorice should still be followed.

Q9. Is Licorice good for throat wellness?

Licorice has traditionally been used to soothe throat discomfort. Research on specific licorice lozenges and gargles suggests that they may help with certain types of sore throat, although this does not mean licorice treats respiratory infections.

Q10. Is Licorice good for digestion?

Licorice has a long history of traditional use for digestive wellness. Research has examined its potential gastrointestinal benefits, but evidence remains limited for using ordinary licorice powder to treat digestive conditions.

Q11. Can children take Licorice?

Children should not be given medicinal amounts of licorice without guidance from a pediatrician or other qualified healthcare professional. The appropriate amount and safety can vary with age, health status, and the type of licorice preparation.

Q12. Can pregnant women use Licorice?

Pregnant women should avoid using medicinal amounts of licorice without medical advice. High oral consumption of licorice has raised safety concerns during pregnancy, so professional guidance is recommended.

Q13. What is the difference between Athimathuram powder and Licorice extract?

Athimathuram powder is made by grinding dried licorice root, while an extract is produced by concentrating selected compounds from the root. Extracts can contain higher or standardized amounts of active compounds, so they should not be treated as equivalent to ordinary licorice powder.

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