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Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)

by Sarah Wang

Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)

Common Names: White marshmallow, mortification root, sweetweed

Family: Malvaceae

Parts Used: The whole plant, the root of 2-3 year old plants containing the highest percentage of mucilage.

Historical/cultural uses: Marshmallow was advocated by Greek physician Hypocrites as a wound healer. The leaves were often used as poultices to draw out poison and debris that may infect an open wound.

Constituents: Mucilage polysaccharides composed of galacturonorhamnans, arabinans, glucaris, and arabinogalactans; carbohydrates; flavonoids; glycosides; phenolic acid.

Medicinal Actions: Astringent, absorbent-soothing, demulcent, diuretic, emollient, galactagogue, laxative, lithotriptic, mucilant, nutritive, tonic, vulnerary

Medicinal Use:

  1. Respiratory health: Marshmallow root may have a soothing effect on the respiratory tract and can help to reduce inflammation and irritation caused by conditions such as bronchitis and asthma.

  2. Digestive health: Marshmallow root may help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, making it useful for treating conditions such as ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and constipation.

  3. Skin health: Topical application of marshmallow root may help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the skin, making it useful for treating conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

  4. Immune system support: Marshmallow root may help to support the immune system by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of healthy gut bacteria.

  5. Sore throat: Marshmallow root may help to reduce inflammation and soothe the throat, making it useful for treating sore throats and other respiratory infections.

Historically, marshmallow root has been used in traditional medicine for a wide range of health conditions, including respiratory and digestive disorders, skin conditions, and inflammation. It was also used as a food source and as a binding agent in cosmetics and other products.

Contraindications: Pregnancy or taking pharmaceuticals consult with doctor.

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