Organic Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)

Family: Malvaceae

Common Names: Althaea, Marsh Mallow, White Mallow

Botanical Description: Marshmallow is a perennial herb that can grow up to 4 to 5 feet tall. It has soft, velvety, heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges, and its stems are covered with fine hairs. The plant produces pale pink to white flowers that resemble hollyhocks, blooming in late summer. The roots are thick, fleshy, and white, and they are the part of the plant most commonly used medicinally.

Habitat and Cultivation: Native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa, marshmallow grows in moist, marshy environments like riverbanks, meadows, and coastal areas. It prefers rich, loamy soil and full sun to partial shade. Marshmallow is often cultivated in herb gardens for its medicinal properties.

Parts Used: Root (though leaves and flowers are also used medicinally)

Historical and Folklore Uses:

Marshmallow root has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine. Ancient Egyptians used it as a remedy for sore throats and skin inflammations. In ancient Greece and Rome, it was used to soothe coughs and digestive issues. The root’s mucilaginous (gel-like) properties made it a valuable remedy for irritations and inflammations of the mucous membranes. Historically, marshmallow root was also used to make a sweet treat similar to modern marshmallows, though today's confectionery version is usually made with gelatin.

Energetics and Taste:

• Energetics: Cooling, moistening
• Taste: Sweet, mucilaginous, slightly earthy

Medicinal Actions:

• Demulcent: Soothes and protects irritated mucous membranes in the respiratory, digestive, and urinary tracts.
• Expectorant: Helps to loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract.
• Emollient: Softens and soothes the skin, reducing irritation and inflammation.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, particularly in the digestive and respiratory systems.
• Diuretic: Promotes the elimination of excess fluids from the body.
• Antitussive: Relieves coughs, particularly dry, irritating ones.

System Affinities:

• Respiratory System: Marshmallow root is widely used to treat respiratory conditions such as dry coughs, bronchitis, and sore throats. Its mucilaginous properties coat and soothe the throat, reducing irritation and inflammation.
• Digestive System: The root is used to soothe and heal the digestive tract, particularly in conditions like gastritis, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It helps to protect and repair the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines.
• Urinary System: Marshmallow root is also used to treat urinary tract infections and inflammation. It soothes the lining of the urinary tract and helps reduce discomfort during urination.
• Skin: When applied topically, marshmallow root can help soothe and heal irritated or inflamed skin, such as burns, rashes, or eczema. It is also used in poultices and ointments for wounds and insect bites.

Active Compounds:

• Mucilage: A gel-like substance that soothes and protects mucous membranes, contributing to the demulcent and emollient properties of marshmallow root.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.
• Pectin: A type of soluble fiber that supports digestive health and helps soothe the digestive tract.
• Polysaccharides: Complex carbohydrates that contribute to the immune-supportive and anti-inflammatory effects of the herb.

Uses:

1. Coughs and Sore Throats: Marshmallow root is commonly used in teas, syrups, and lozenges to relieve dry coughs, soothe sore throats, and reduce irritation in the respiratory tract.
2. Digestive Health: The root is used to treat digestive issues such as gastritis, ulcers, and IBS. It helps to soothe and heal the lining of the stomach and intestines, reducing inflammation and irritation.
3. Urinary Tract Health: Marshmallow root is effective in treating urinary tract infections and bladder inflammation. It soothes the mucous membranes of the urinary tract, helping to reduce pain and discomfort.
4. Skin Care: Applied topically, marshmallow root can soothe and heal irritated skin, including burns, rashes, and eczema. It is often used in poultices, creams, and ointments.
5. Immune Support: Due to its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, marshmallow root can support the immune system by reducing inflammation and irritation in the body.

Cautions:

• Diabetes: Marshmallow root may lower blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes or those taking blood sugar-lowering medications should use it with caution and monitor their blood sugar levels closely.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While marshmallow root is generally considered safe, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding, particularly in medicinal amounts.
• Drug Interactions: Marshmallow root may interfere with the absorption of certain medications due to its mucilage content, so it is best taken separately from other medications. Consult a healthcare provider if you are on medication.

Research and Studies:

1. A study published in Phytotherapy Research highlighted the soothing and protective effects of marshmallow root on the mucous membranes, supporting its traditional use in treating coughs, sore throats, and digestive issues .
2. Research in Journal of Ethnopharmacology demonstrated the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of marshmallow root, validating its use in reducing inflammation and supporting overall health .
3. Another study in Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy explored the potential benefits of marshmallow root in treating skin conditions and promoting wound healing, confirming its traditional topical uses.