Marshmallow Root

 Also Known As - Althaea officinalis

Organically Grown USA

Overview - Marshmallow is a typical member of the mallow family that happens to like moist soils like those found in marshes, hence the name. It grows as a tall spike with simple pink flowers and is a good source of traditional herbal remedies. The herb contains mucilagin, which makes herbal tea from the plant feel slimy in the mouth. This ingredient is very soothing and is one of the reasons marshmallow has remained an effective remedy for so long. It has a long medicinal history stretching all the way back to the ancient Romans.

Medicinal Uses – Internally, Marshmallow leaf is used to ease inflammation and ulceration in the digestive system as well as the mucosa affected by dry coughs. It is an expectorant and controls bacterial infections. It can soothe irritation of the mucus membranes of the mouth, throat and gastrointestinal system as well as aid respiratory ailments like asthma and bronchitis. It will form a protective coating over irritated and inflamed mucus membranes. The root will treat hernia and cystitis. Externally, Marshmallow can help boils, abscesses, burns, ulcers, sores and other minor injuries. It can limit inflammation in the skin and will help prevent skin degeneration. The herb seems to boost the immune system at the cellular level. It inhibits degradation of connective tissues. It helps the skin maintain moisture, reduces aging in the skin and helps quicken healing. It may be added to drawing ointments to apply to boils and abscesses. It is also used as an emollient for varicose veins.

Other Uses – Marshmallow is the original source of the confection we all know by the same name. Commercial sweets are now made from sugar, but there is a resurging popularity in some specialty shops for making the original variety from the root from scratch as a gourmet treat.

Herbs to Combine/Supplement - It is often added to syrups or other herbal remedies that need an expectorant or demulcent quality.

Parts of the Plant that can be Used - While the roots are the main component used, the leaves and flowers can  also be used medicinally.

Precautions - The mucilage produced by marshmallow may absorb other medications and make them less effective. There are no known side effects.

Suggested - Commercial preparations with marshmallow are easily found, especially those made of the root. It is available as herbal tea, capsules and in combination formulas. Tincture can be taken three times per day in a dose of 1 to 4 ml each time. The roots may be used in a cold infusion made from 2 to 4 grams of root in a cup of cold water and allowed to infuse overnight.

Disclaimer - These products are not intended to diagnose, treat cure or prevent any disease. Reviews are not intended as a substitute for appropriate medical care or the advice of a physician or another medical professional. Actual results may vary among users. Mountain Maus Remedies LLC makes no warranty or representation, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or validity of the information contributed by outside product review submissions, and assumes no responsibility or liability regarding the use of such information. The information and statements regarding the dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. If you have a medical condition or disease, please talk to your health care provider. If you are currently taking a prescription medication, you should work with your health care provider before discontinuing any drug or altering any drug regimen, including augmenting your regimen with any herb or dietary supplements. Do not attempt to self-diagnose any disease or ailment based on the reviews and do not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Proper medical care is critical to good health. If you have a health concern or suspect you have an undiagnosed sign or symptom, please consult a physician or health care practitioner.