Marshmallow

A high content of mucilage makes it a powerful emollient and demulcent, ideal for easing inflammation and irritation in the digestive, respiratory, and urinary systems.

Uses

Soothing Digestive Relief: Historically, Marshmallow Root was used in Greek and Roman medicine to treat digestive disorders, including gastritis, ulcers, and indigestion. Its mucilage content made it particularly effective at coating the stomach lining and reducing irritation.

Respiratory Support: In European folk medicine, Marshmallow Root was commonly used as a remedy for coughs, bronchitis, and sore throats. It was brewed into teas or syrups to soothe inflammation in the lungs and throat, reducing dry, persistent coughs.

Topical Applications: Traditionally, Marshmallow Root was used as a poultice or salve to reduce skin inflammation, treat wounds, burns, and insect bites, and to calm eczema or other skin conditions.

Current Uses:

Demulcent for Digestive and Respiratory Health: Today, Marshmallow Root is used primarily for its demulcent properties to treat inflammation of the digestive and respiratory tracts. It is commonly found in herbal teas and cough syrups aimed at treating gastritis, acid reflux, sore throats, and dry coughs.

Urinary Health: Marshmallow is also used in modern herbal medicine to treat bladder infections, urinary tract inflammation, and kidney stones due to its ability to soothe mucous membranes in the urinary system.

Skin Care: The mucilage content of Marshmallow Root makes it a popular ingredient in natural skincare products, used for hydrating and calming irritated skin.

Cautions

Toxicity:

Very safe when used within appropriate doses. In some cases, it may cause mild gastrointestinal (GIT) upset, such as bloating or diarrhea, but this is rare and generally well-tolerated.

Contraindications:

None known. Marshmallow Root is considered a safe herb with no significant contraindications.

Interactions:

Medications: As Marshmallow contains mucilage, it can slow down the absorption of other oral medications. It is recommended to take medications 1-2 hours apart from consuming Marshmallow Root to avoid potential interference with drug absorption.

Known Chemical Constituents

Mucilage (Polysaccharides):

- Arabinogalactans, Xylose, Galactose, Rhamnose, Pectin: These provide Marshmallow with its renowned demulcent properties, soothing inflamed tissues and mucous membranes.

Coumarins:

- Known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to support circulation and reduce inflammation.

Flavonoids:

- Kaempferol, Quercetin: These contribute to antioxidant and immune-boosting properties, supporting the body’s natural defenses.

Pectins:

- Provides additional soothing effects, especially beneficial for digestive and respiratory health.

Tannins:

- Offer astringent properties, toning and tightening tissues, particularly useful for wound healing and skin conditions.

Calcium Oxalate:

- Present in small amounts, contributing to Marshmallow’s nutritive value and supporting bone health.

Amino Acids (Asparagine):

- A key component in protein metabolism, contributing to tissue repair and healing processes.

Volatile Oils:

- Present in small amounts, adding to the overall calming and restorative properties of the plant.

Botanical Description

Growth Habit:
Althaea officinalis is a perennial herb that typically grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 meters (3-5 feet). It has a soft, woody stem with numerous upright branches.

Leaves:
The leaves are soft, oval, and lobed, with a downy texture. They are arranged alternately on the stem and can grow up to 7-10 cm long. The leaves have a grey-green color and are covered with fine hairs, giving them a velvety texture.

Flowers:
Marshmallow produces pale pink to white flowers, similar in appearance to hollyhocks, with five petals. The flowers bloom in clusters at the top of the stems during the summer months and are about 2-3 cm in diameter.

Roots:
The thick, fibrous roots are the most commonly used part of the plant for medicinal purposes. They are white on the inside and have a high concentration of mucilage, which gives the root its soothing, emollient properties.

Fun Facts

The root’s sap was once used as a sweetener.

Parts Used

Root, Leaves

Harvest

Timing:

The roots are typically harvested in the autumn of the plant’s second or third year of growth. This is when the medicinal properties are most concentrated.
The leaves can be harvested throughout the summer, especially before the plant flowers.
Flowers are picked during the flowering season, usually in mid-summer.

Method:

Roots: Carefully dig up the entire root system, ensuring you do not damage the roots. Once harvested, the roots are thoroughly washed and either used fresh or dried for later use.
Leaves and Flowers: Harvest by hand-picking or using scissors to avoid damaging the plant. The leaves should be dried in a well-ventilated area to prevent mold growth.

Storage:

After drying, both roots and aerial parts should be stored in airtight containers away from moisture and light to preserve their potency. Dried roots can last up to two years, while the leaves and flowers last about one year.

Preparations

Infusions/Teas: A common method for soothing sore throats, dry coughs, and digestive irritation.

Tinctures: Used to treat inflammatory conditions in the digestive, urinary, and respiratory systems.

Syrups: A popular preparation for calming coughs and throat irritation, especially in children.

Poultices: Applied to the skin to soothe inflammation, burns, and eczema.

Capsules: Taken as a supplement for digestive or respiratory health.

Sacred Rituals

Used in rituals for emotional healing.

Affirmations

“I trust in the healing power of nature to soothe and nurture my body, mind, and spirit with gentle compassion.”

Spiritual Associations

Its gentle energy encourages self-compassion and healing on an emotional level.

Functions