Marshmallow is an herb that was originally used thousands of years ago by the ancient Egyptians. Its medicinal use later became popular in Europe and it is now listed on the German official medications list for treating several ailments, despite a lack of scientific information to support its efficacy. Although marshmallow is now used to treat a variety of health problems, consult with your doctor before using marshmallow medicinally.
Identification and Dosing
Marshmallow is also called Althaea officinalis, common marshmallow, sweet weed, and mortification root, among other names. The leaves and roots of the plant are used medicinally. Marshmallow is more commonly taken as a tea. According to HerbWisdon.com, marshmallow tea is prepared by adding 2 to 5 tsp. of powdered root and boiling in 5 oz. of water. The usual dose of marshmallow tea is 1 cup taken three times a day, says HerbWisdon.com.
Uses
Marshmallow root is used for relieving inflammation of the lining of the respiratory tract, mouth, throat, stomach, and urinary tract. It is also used for treating cough, stomach and intestinal ulcers, diarrhea, constipation, and stones in the urinary tract. Marshmallow root is also used on the skin to treat infection, sores, burns and wounds. Some use marshmallow root in ointment form to treat chapped skin and a condition called chilblains, which is inflammation of the hands and feet from cold exposure.
Effectiveness
Marshmallow works by making a thick sticky substance or mucilage that covers tissue and has a protective and soothing effect, reports the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, or NMCD. However, there is not enough scientific information from human studies to determine the effectiveness of marshmallow, says the NMCD.
Considerations
According to the NMCD, marshmallow is generally safe when taken by mouth or applied to the skin. However, marshmallow can decrease blood sugar levels and should be used with caution in diabetics, warns the NMCD. It should also not be used within two weeks of surgery, adds the NMCD. Marshmallow should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation because there is not enough available information to assess its safety in these conditions.
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