Marshmallow Root & Interstitial Cystitis

Marshmallow root may be used as an internal medicine for supporting the treatment and symptomatic management of interstitial cystitis. Interstitial cystitis is a disease in which the bladder tissues become irritated, inflamed or damaged by means other than bacterial or viral infection -- most often because of an underlying auto-immune condition. Marshmallow root may soothe and support the mucous membranes of many organs of the body, including the bladder, and may provide a safe complementary treatment option. Consult with your health-care professional to be sure that marshmallow root is right for you.

What is Marshmallow Root?

Marshmallow, also known as Althea officinalis, is a medicinal plant used for treating hot and irritated conditions such as coughs, colds, digestive problems, ulcers, abscesses, hyperacid stomachs, urinary tract infections and bladder problems. According to Gillian Painter, herbalist and author of "Materia Medica for the Southern Hemisphere," the root of the marshmallow plant contains up to 35 percent mucilage, a soothing water-soluble substance that coats tissues and reduces inflammation while stimulating better cellular healing. Marshmallow root can be taken as an infusion, decoction, tincture, glycetract or dried extract.

Soothing Reflex

According to Zoe Hawes, author of "Wild Drugs," herbal preparations made from marshmallow root have a soothing action on many parts of the body. When taken internally the compounds in marshmallow root have a reflex action, soothing and calming tissues from the mouth to the digestive tract, the lungs and in the urinary tract and bladder. Specifically for hot and inflamed conditions such as cystitis, marshmallow root taken as a hot or cold infusion can relieve discomforting symptoms such as pain and inflammation. While the leaves and flowers are also used for urinary and bladder problems, the root contains the highest traces of mucilage.

Tissue Healing

Marshmallow root may be able to help protect and heal tissues of the bladder that have become damaged. In a study published in "The Journal of Ethnopharmacology" in 2010, researchers from the Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology and Phytochemistry in Germany investigated the effects of marshmallow root on tissue regeneration. Preparations of marshmallow root adhered to human tissues and stimulated the vitality and improved the healing of cells in vitro. Researchers concluded the evidence of marshmallow's healing properties supported the traditional use of marshmallow root as a natural treatment for irritated mucous membranes.

Research and Safety

Marshmallow root is safe and well-tolerated by the majority of the population, and is safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. According to Drug Information Online, there are no known drug interactions or adverse side effects associated with using marshmallow root. Check with a doctor before combining herbal remedies with medications, however, and if you experience unexpected bleeding from the bladder or bowels, seek out medical attention immediately.