Marshmallow Root Herb
The Marshmallow plant or Althaea officinalis is an upright perennial from
family Malvaceae. The genus name of the plant - Althaea - comes from Greek word that means
‘associated with healing’. The plant can be found in Europe and Asia but is native to Europe.
Found growing in abundance in moist and wet places all over the world, marshmallow is a perennial
aromatic herb that is sometimes found to grow up to four feet in height.
What are the parts being used?
The parts being used for medicinal purposes are the roots, flowers, and
the leaves. In this article, the part that will be used is the root. The Ancient Egyptians
used the root of the Marshmallow to treat sore throat in a honey-sweetened confection.
How does it work in the body?
The primary component in the marshmallow is the mucilage. The mucilage
safeguards the body tissues and serves as an anti inflammatory. This anti inflammatory effect is
very effective against bronchitis, pleurisy, dry cough and other respiratory problems.
Also, the marshmallow has a curative effect on the digestive system in
particular diseases like ulcers and gastric inflammation which often lead to tetchy bowel syndrome.
In addition, the herb has a positive effect in the urinary system. It comforts the aggravated
tissues in UTIs (urinary tract infections).
Finally, the roots can be applied topically to heal skin problems like
ulcers and burns; a reason why it is called a wonder herb.
Mouth Wash
The herb makes a fantastic mouth wash for painful mouth conditions in
women such as mouth ulcers, canker sores, cuts on the inside of the cheeks, inflamed gums and even
sore throats are soothed with a marshmallow rinse. Just apply the cold infused tea on the affected
areas to coat the mouth. The mouth wash can easily be done in the home.
Heartburn home remedy and Ulcers
Try adding a little peppermint to the cold infusion to find relief from
heartburn, peptic ulcers, and inflamed intestines. Besides being able to soothe inflammation,
marshmallow root is also a vulnerary, healing wounds within the digestive tract.
Colds and Flu
The cold infused Marshmallow root is an effective remedy for the cold and
flu season. It can soothe an inflamed sore throat. It stimulates phagocytosis, an important part of
the immune system and it's even used to moisten the lungs in cases of dry hot conditions, such as
hot coughs with little to no expectoration.
Recent scientific research has shown it to be a powerful anti-tussive herb
as well. I commonly recommend it for post infection coughs - these are the ones keeping you awake
at night long after the illness has passed.
Urinary infections
Herbalists frequently use marshmallow for urinary problems such as cystitis, kidney stones, and
bladder infections. Besides soothing the urinary tract it is also a diuretic, which can be of
further aide in many urinary problems.
Cold Infusion preparation:
Ingredients:
- a jar and lid
- marshmallow root
- lukewarm water
Steps:
1. Fill the jar with marshmallow root, one-fourth way.
2. Fill the jar with lukewarm water.
3. Cover the lid.
4. Wait for a minimum of 4hours. (The color of the water should change to soft yellow)
5. Strain off the roots. The resulting liquid should be thick and viscous.
There is little known about this herb. Researchers say that there are
minimal side effects. Although there is a possibility that marshmallow may interfere with the
absorption of other drugs and therefore should be taken at least one to two hours after ingestion
of any other drug. Also, caution should be taken when using with any dietary supplement.
These supplements cause a decrease in blood sugar levels just as the
althea has been known to do. Lastly, the herb should be taken cautiously in pregnant and lactating
women. It would be better to seek guidance from a doctor or you may visit www.mountainroseherbs.com
for a good review.
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