Marshmallow Root Benefits

When considering marshmallow, a white, puffy candy toasting on a stick over a campfire may first come to mind. In fact, marshmallows were, at one time, made from the root of the marshmallow plant. Apart from its confectionery uses, marshmallow, particularly its root, also has medicinal applications, both internal and external, that stretch back through history thousands of years. Marshmallow root has demulcent properties that may coat and sooth the skin, stomach and breathing passages.

Wound Treatment

Marshmallow root contains large quantities of a naturally-occurring gluey substance, known as mucilage. When ground and combined with small amounts of water, the root releases its mucilage in the form of a thick gel. According to "The Healing Herbs" by Michael Castleman, this gel, when applied to cuts, scrapes and minor burns can provide some relief. An ointment made from the root is sometimes used to treat boils and abscesses.

Gastrointestinal Ailments

According to Plants For A Future, a mixture of marshmallow root and warm water produces a tea that may be helpful to treat excess stomach acid, indigestion, stomach ulcers and acute gastritis. The University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that marshmallow may also provide some relief from inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn's disease. Marshmallow can also be used as a mild laxative.

Respiratory Ailments

The University of Maryland Medical Center also states that, taken internally, marshmallow may also help to address the effects of asthma and bronchitis. Also, according to the Center, those suffering from sore throat and coughs from upper respiratory infections may also benefit from the cough-suppressant properties of marshmallow.