mulethi is hot or cold for body - #23265
I am really confused about whether mulethi is hot or cold for body. I've been reading different things online, and it's driving me up the wall. Last week, I started using mulethi powder after my friend told me it helps with digestion and throat issues since I've been coughing a lot lately. I mixed it in some warm milk, thinking that'd be good for me. But then, I found some articles that claim mulethi is actually cold for the body. I even went to a local herbal shop, and they said it's beneficial for cooling the body, but now I'm second-guessing that! On one hand, I feel like the warmth of the milk and the sweetness of mulethi works for me, but then I wonder if I'm overdoing it. The problem is, I don't want to mess things up. I mean, should I be drinking it with hot drinks or should I go for cold? Could mulethi be making my cough worse if it's actually cooling? I just want to know if mulethi is hot or cold for body, and what would be the right way to consume it. Anyone else had this dilemma?
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Doctors' responses
Mulethi, also known as licorice root, is considered to have a cooling effect on the body, according to traditional systems like Ayurveda. It is often used to calm inflammation, reduce heat in the body, and soothe irritated tissues, which could explain why some sources label it as “cooling.” However, it’s important to note that the concept of foods being “hot” or “cold” is nuanced and can vary by individual context and the specific ailment you are addressing. Mixing mulethi with warm milk could beneficially combine the soothing aspects of both, providing relief for throat irritation and coughing. However, if you’re feeling excessively cool or if the climate is already cold, very frequent consumption in this form could potentially lead to discomfort. As a sweet herb, it might seem warming, but the cooling properties may affect individuals differently. In terms of your coughing, if you’ve noticed any increase in symptoms since starting mulethi, consider how much you’re consuming and whether any other factors might be contributing. One practical approach is to use mulethi in moderation; try it with your usual warm milk if you find that soothing, while also monitoring how your body responds. If you’re still concerned, drinking it in a cooler form may provide a more tangible sense of whether it exacerbates your condition. Always strike a balance and observe any patterns – if symptoms persist or worsen, particularly the cough, consulting with a healthcare professional would be advisable to rule out any underlying issues.
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