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Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Malvaceae
  • Common Names: Marshmallow, Marsh Mallow
  • Parts Used: Roots, leaves, flowers

Description

Marshmallow is a perennial herb native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, commonly found in marshy areas and damp meadows. Known for its high mucilage content, it has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to soothe mucous membranes and reduce inflammation.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in ancient Egyptian and Greek medicine to treat sore throats, wounds, and digestive complaints.
  • Employed as a soothing agent for respiratory and urinary tract infections.
  • Traditionally used as a poultice to relieve inflammation and heal wounds.

Constituents

  • Mucilage (polysaccharides)
  • Flavonoids
  • Pectin
  • Asparagine
  • Tannins
  • Coumarins

Actions

  • Demulcent (soothes mucous membranes)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Emollient
  • Expectorant
  • Diuretic

Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Health:
Marshmallow root and leaf are commonly used to treat coughs, bronchitis, and sore throats by soothing and coating the mucous membranes.

2. Digestive Support:
The mucilage content helps relieve irritation in the stomach and intestines, making it useful for gastritis, ulcers, and colitis.

3. Urinary Tract Health:
Its soothing properties help ease inflammation of the bladder and urinary tract infections.

4. Skin Healing:
Applied topically, marshmallow helps heal wounds, burns, and skin irritations while reducing inflammation.

5. Anti-inflammatory Support:
Useful for conditions involving inflammation, such as arthritis and joint pain.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried leaves or flowers per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink 1-3 times daily.

Decoction:

  • Simmer 1-2 tsp of dried root in water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of tincture taken 2-3 times daily.

Poultice:

  • Mash fresh or rehydrated dried root and apply to inflamed or irritated skin.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally considered safe, but consult a healthcare provider before use.
  • Medication Interactions: May delay the absorption of certain medications; take separately by 1-2 hours.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional European Medicine: Cooling and moistening, used to reduce heat and dryness in the body.
  • Ayurvedic: Balances pitta and vata doshas due to its soothing and grounding properties.

Combinations

  • For Respiratory Health: Combine with licorice and mullein.
  • For Digestive Relief: Combine with chamomile and slippery elm.
  • For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and comfrey.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Roots are typically harvested in autumn, while leaves and flowers are collected during the growing season.
  • Drying: Dry plant materials in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried materials in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Modern Research

Studies confirm marshmallow’s demulcent and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting its traditional use for soothing mucous membranes and reducing irritation. Research is ongoing to explore its benefits in treating inflammatory bowel diseases and chronic coughs.

Marshmallow remains a valued herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, offering relief for respiratory, digestive, and skin conditions.