Licorice Oil (Yashtimadhu Taila)

Modern description

Licorice Oil is used as a nourishing enema to alleviate Vata, promote strength, and rejuvenate tissues, often following cleansing therapies. It is also used for skin and hair problems.

Purpose

Nourishing enema after cleansing enema and feeding with meat soup.

Indications

• Skin diseases (eczema, psoriasis)
• Hair fall
• Premature graying
• Mouth ulcers
• Cough
• Voice hoarseness
• General weakness
• Vrana Ropana (wound healing)
• Burning sensations

Classical indications

• Khalitya (hair fall)
• Palita (graying of hair)
• Vrana (wound)
• Kasa (cough)
• Svarabheda (hoarseness of voice)

Karma

• Vatahara (reduces Vata)
• Pittahara (reduces Pitta)
• Balya (strengthening)
• Varnya (improves complexion)
• Keshya (beneficial for hair)
• Vrana Ropana (wound healing)
• Agnisthambhana (strengthens digestive fire)

Key ingredients

• Yashtimadhu coarse powder
• Base oil
• Water

Adult dose

External application as needed; Internal use is less common but if used, 5-10 drops orally.

Pediatric dose

Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner

Preparation steps

• Boil Licorice root in water to create a decoction.
• Mix the decoction with sesame oil.
• Heat the mixture until all water evaporates, leaving only the oil.

Safety contraindications

• Rarely, may cause mild nasal irritation during Nasya or clog skin pores if over applied.