YASHTIMADHU Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn.

In the rich tradition of Ayurveda, few medicinal plants hold the importance and wide range of uses associated with Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn.). Traditionally known by the names Madhuka and Yashtimadhu, meaning the ―sweet stick,‖ Yashtimadhu is regarded as an important Rasayana and Medhya dravya. It is traditionally valued for supporting strength, vitality, voice, and overall balance of the body.

The inspiration for this monograph comes from the need for a clear and comprehensive reference for Ayurvedic higher education and postgraduate research in Dravyaguna. Classical Samhitas and Nighantus describe the properties and uses of Yashtimadhu in detail, but this information is often spread across different chapters, commentaries, and texts. At the same time, modern scientific research has generated substantial information on its phytochemical composition and reported activities such as antiulcer, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and cognition-promoting effects. However, these modern findings are often discussed separately from important Ayurvedic concepts such as Rasa-panchaka, Dosha-karma, and Agni.