While marshmallows are a delicious sugary treat, marshmallow root is something entirely different—and unlike the fluffy treat by the same name, it’s packed with benefits and has a variety of uses. Here’s a fun fact, too: The marshmallow snack got its name is due to the fluffy qualities of marshmallow root. So at least there’s some common ground.
What is marshmallow root?
Marshmallow (Althaea Officinalis), also known as “mallow,” is an ancient herb with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In fact, its Greek name, “Altho” means “to heal.” Native to Africa and Europe, marshmallow root is extracted from the Althaea plant and has been used in herbal medicine for centuries. The healing powers of marshmallow root come from the mucilage, the soft, gel-like substance it produces. The mucilage is packed with antioxidants, which provide a wide range of benefits. Known for its ability to boost immunity and reduce inflammation, many ayurvedic medicine and holistic practitioners use marshmallow root today. Marshmallow root is also easy to grow, especially in moist, sandy soil, Dr. La Puma explains. It has tall stalks topped by a lovely five-petal white blossom with a purple center, and the leaves can be used for herbal tea.
Uses of marshmallow root
Dr. John La Puma, MD, FACP, and EcoMedicine®- Nature for Your Mind and Body explains some of the top uses of marshmallow root. They include:
Inflammation of the lining of the stomachSkin conditions such as eczemaDry coughs and coldsBacterial infections and respiratory infections
Benefits of marshmallow root
This flowery plant also offers numerous benefits. They include:
Supports digestive, respiratory and skin health
“Marshmallow root is used to aid in digestive health, respiratory and throat health, as it’s viscous it coats a sore throat and aids mucus membranes in the lungs,” says Heather Fowler, CIHC, IWHC, Founder of ComplEATly Well. “It can also be used externally as an emollient to protect skin’s moisture barrier. Marshmallow root has been found to treat some wounds and external infections. Marshmallow root has been found to significantly reduce UVA-induced DNA damage.” Research also shows marshmallow root can protect the gut from ulcers.
Reduces inflammation
One of marshmallow root’s main benefits includes reducing inflammation. “Nearly all the studies of marshmallow have been done in the laboratory and in animals, though it has long historical use,” says Dr. La Puma. “Marshmallow root’s mucilage can soothe inflammation of the mucous membranes, and can form a protective coating in the digestive tract.”
Improves dry cough
Marshmallow root is often clinically used to treat dry cough. Dry cough is a side effect of Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, often used for high blood pressure treatment, Dr. La Puma explains.
Side effects of marshmallow root
Generally, marshmallow root is safe to ingest. However, there is the potential for an adverse reaction in some cases. “Marshmallow root is mostly well-tolerated,” says Fowler. “In some cases, it can cause stomach upset and skin irritation. It should not be taken in pregnancy or those with diabetes.” Topical corticosteroids may also be affected by marshmallow root. “Marshmallow may enhance the effects of topical corticosteroids, and in theory may cause hypoglycemia,” says Dr. La Puma. Next, read up on8 medicinal herbs to grow in your garden.
Sources
Food Hydrocolloids: “Rheological Behavior and Antioxidant Activity of a Highly Acidic Gum from Althaea Officinalis”Pharmaceutical and Biosciences Journal: “Assessment of Protective Effects of Extracts of Zingiber Officinale and Althaea Officinalis on Pyloric Ligation-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Experimental Animals”John La Puma, MD, FACP, Founder of EcoMedicine®- Nature for Your Mind and Body and Co-Founder of ChefMD®Research in Complementary Medicine: “Marshmallow Root Extract for the Treatment of Irritative Cough: Two Surveys on Users’ View on Effectiveness and TolerabilityPakistan Journal of Nutrition: Effect of Althaea Officinalis on Cough Associated with ACE InhibitorsHeather Fowler, CIHC, IWHC, Founder of ComplEATly Well
