Herbal Profile: Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)

Botanical Name: Althaea officinalis

Common Names: Marshmallow root, Althea root

Family: Malvaceae

Parts Used: Root (sometimes leaves and flowers)

Description: Marshmallow is a perennial herb that grows up to 4-5 feet tall. It has soft, velvety leaves and pale pink flowers. The root is thick, white, and fibrous.

Historical Use: Marshmallow root has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine. The ancient Egyptians used it to treat sore throats, while it was also used in traditional European medicine for a variety of ailments.

Constituents:

  • Mucilage (10-20%)
  • Flavonoids
  • Phenolic acids
  • Tannins
  • Pectin
  • Starch

Medicinal Properties:

  • Demulcent: Soothes and protects irritated or inflamed internal tissues.
  • Emollient: Softens and moisturizes skin and mucous membranes.
  • Expectorant: Helps expel mucus from the respiratory tract.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation.
  • Diuretic: Increases urine production to help flush out toxins.

Health Benefits:

  1. Digestive Health:
  2. Respiratory Health:
  3. Skin Health:
  4. Urinary Health:

Forms and Preparations:

  • Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried root in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
  • Decoction: Simmer root in water for 20-30 minutes for a stronger preparation.
  • Tincture: Extracted in alcohol; take according to label instructions.
  • Capsules/Tablets: Standardized extracts in pill form.
  • Poultice: Applied externally for skin issues.

Dosage:

  • Tea: 1-2 cups per day.
  • Tincture: 2-4 ml, 2-3 times per day.
  • Capsules/Tablets: Follow manufacturer's instructions.

Precautions:

  • Generally safe for most people when used appropriately.
  • Can interfere with the absorption of other medications if taken simultaneously.
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
  • People with diabetes should monitor blood sugar levels, as it may affect them.

Conclusion: Marshmallow root is a versatile herb with a rich history of use in traditional medicine. Its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for a variety of ailments, particularly those affecting the digestive, respiratory, and urinary systems.