Is a bog-plant that is native to Britain and Europe, but is now naturalised in the United States. Used in Europe for over 2000 years as a medicine, especially for soothing digestive and respiratory tracts. The Marshmallow roots and leaves are used medicinally. The root extract is sometimes used to make confectionery.
Medicinal Properties of Marshmallow
The root contains a substance called mucilage which has demulcent (soothing) properties, up to 11% of this active constituent exists, and it protects, lubricates and heals inflamed or irritated tissue and mucous membranes. It also contains flavanoids, tannins, phenolic acids and 37% starch,11% pectin, 10% sucrose, 1.7% fat and up to 2% asparagine. It is thought that the mucilage in this herb may also have immune stimulating and blood sugar-lowering properties. Topically it acts as an emollient (skin softening and soothing).
Marshmallow Herbal Remedies
Historically Marshmallow has been used to treat a number of conditions including:
Abscess (topically)
Asthma
Boils (topically)
Chapped skin (topically)
Chilblains (topically)
Colds
Cough
Crohn’s disease
Cystitis
Diarrhoea
Eczema & dermatitis
Gastritis
Gastroenteritis
Hiatus hernia
Irritable bowel syndrome
Indigestion / dyspepsia
Mouth ulcers
Sore throat
Stomach and duodenal ulcer
Ulcerative colitis
Ulcers – skin, leg etc. topically
Wounds
Other Marshmallow Information
Sometimes available in tablet form, capsules or tinctures, it can also be bought in root form for making herbal tea for internal use, or to make poultices for topical applications. Ointments and creams are also available for external use. The leaves and flowers can be added to salads to add flavour, the roots can be boiled and fried in butter and used as a vegetable.
Side Effects of Marshmallow
According to the German Commission E Monograph, due to the mucilage in marshmallow the absorption of other medications (taken at the same time) may be delayed.
It is advised to take marshmallow and medicines at a separate time.
At the time of writing there are no other well known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications.
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