Therapeutic Potential of Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) in Demyelinating Disorders: An Ayurvedic Perspective

Abstract

Demyelination involves the progressive destruction of the myelin sheath, leading to neurological impairment. In Ayurveda, such conditions correlate with Majja Dhatu Kshaya and Vata Vyadhi, particularly Pakshaghata, Ardita, and Kampavata. Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), a Medhya Rasayana, has been traditionally used for Majjaposhana (nourishment of the nerve/marrow tissue), Vata shamanam, and balyakarma.This presentation is intendent to evaluate the therapeutic role of Yashtimadhu in the context of demyelinating neurological conditions.Method-Textual analysis from classical Ayurvedic compendia (Charaka Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Bhavaprakasha) and supportive data from experimental and pharmacological literature were reviewed.Result and Discussion-Yastimadhu is described in ayurveda as balya, medhya, rasayana and vatapittahara making it a suitable drug in demyelination disorder. In this condition we need a drug which repairs myelin, restores nerve signal, rejuvenates tissue, reduce inflammation and improves immunity in ayurvedic terminology we need a drug which does majja dhatu poshana, vatashamana, rasayana therapy, pitta vata pacification and ojasvardhana respectively. Yastimadhu is one drug which can do all these work by its anti-inflammatory action, antioxidant and neuroprotective action as rich in flavaniods and saponin, balances immune system, promotes tissue regeneration and healing.Conclusion -Yastimadhu through its majja dhatu poshana, rasyana and vatashamaka action presents as a promising ayurvedic intervention in demyelinaton condition.

Introduction

Demyelinating disorders—such as multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)—involve damage to the myelin sheath, causing symptoms like muscle weakness, sensory loss, and cognitive decline. Conventional treatments reduce inflammation but have side effects and limited ability to promote myelin repair.

Ayurveda, a traditional holistic system, explains these disorders as imbalances of the Vata and Pitta doshas affecting Majja Dhatu (nervous tissue) and Ojas (vital essence), leading to neural degeneration and inflammation. Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), an important Ayurvedic herb with sweet, unctuous, and cooling properties, is believed to pacify Vata and Pitta, nourish nervous tissue, reduce inflammation, and enhance immunity and cognitive function.

Modern pharmacological studies support these traditional claims: Yashtimadhu’s bioactive compounds (e.g., glycyrrhizin, glabridin) exhibit anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and remyelination-promoting effects. Clinical case studies show promising improvements in symptoms and quality of life for patients with demyelinating disorders using Yashtimadhu-based Ayurvedic therapies, although larger clinical trials are needed.

Integrating Yashtimadhu into personalized Ayurvedic treatments (such as powders, medicated ghee, nasal oils, massages, and detox therapies) offers a holistic approach complementing conventional medicine. Future research should focus on rigorous clinical trials, mechanistic studies, standardized formulations, and integrative protocols to validate and optimize its therapeutic potential.

Conclusion

Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) offers a holistic approach to demyelinating disorders, addressing Vata-Pitta imbalances, nourishing Majja Dhatu, and enhancing Ojas through its Rasayana properties. Its anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, and regenerative effects, validated by modern research, align with Ayurvedic principles of myelin repair and neural health. Personalized protocols, including YashtimadhuChurna, Ghrita, decoctions, and Panchakarma, provide a comprehensive framework for managing demyelination. Preliminary clinical evidence is promising, but robust trials are needed to establish efficacy and safety. As integrative medicine evolves, Yashtimadhu holds significant potential to improve neurological function and quality of life in demyelinating disorders.

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Dr. Kumari Triveni, Dr. Rajasekhar S Ganiger, Dr. Shivanand Karigar. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.