Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)

Table of Contents

Other names

Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow Leaf
Althea Root

Synopsis

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a perennial herb native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, best known for its soothing and demulcent properties. Nearly all parts of the plant—roots, leaves, and flowers—have been used medicinally, but the root is the most potent and widely applied in traditional and modern herbal medicine.

Marshmallow root is rich in mucilage, a thick, gel-like polysaccharide that coats and protects mucous membranes when hydrated. This makes it particularly valuable for treating irritation and inflammation of the throat, respiratory tract, digestive tract, and urinary system. It is commonly used to relieve dry coughs, sore throats, gastritis, ulcers, acid reflux, and bladder irritation.

In modern herbalism, marshmallow is often included in teas, syrups, tinctures, lozenges, and powders. It acts as a mucosal protectant, helping to soothe irritated tissues and reduce inflammation. It also exhibits mild expectorant properties and can aid in loosening phlegm in dry or unproductive coughs.

Additionally, marshmallow has anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating, and mild antimicrobial effects. Its mucilage may also support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, making it useful in formulations aimed at improving gut health and calming digestive upset.

Topically, marshmallow is applied to wounds, burns, eczema, and dermatitis, as the mucilage helps maintain moisture, protect tissue, and accelerate healing.

Historical Use
Marshmallow has a long history of medicinal use dating back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The Greek physician Hippocrates described its use as a wound healer, while later physicians like Galen and Dioscorides praised it for soothing inflamed tissues. The plant's name, Althaea, is derived from the Greek althainein, meaning “to heal.”

In traditional European herbal medicine, marshmallow root was a staple remedy for bronchitis, laryngitis, gastritis, and inflammatory bowel issues. It was also considered beneficial for the urinary tract, used to ease painful urination and cystitis. The plant’s emollient and moistening properties made it a favored herb for treating dry, inflamed, or sensitive conditions, both internally and externally.

Interestingly, marshmallow also has a culinary history. In the 19th century, the mucilage from marshmallow root was used to make the first marshmallow confections, combined with sugar and whipped egg white to form a soothing sweet for sore throats. These confections eventually evolved into modern marshmallows, though today’s versions rarely include the actual herb.

In Ayurvedic medicine, similar demulcent herbs are used to balance Vata dosha, particularly when dryness and inflammation dominate. While marshmallow itself is not native to India, its function is echoed in herbs like licorice and slippery elm, which have comparable mucilaginous profiles.

Today, marshmallow remains a core botanical in natural medicine for calming irritated mucous membranes, reducing inflammation, and supporting digestive and respiratory health, with a track record of safety and gentle effectiveness.

Uses: Health Conditions

Bladder (ulcerated) (Traditional)
Blood in Stool (Traditional)
Duodenal Ulcers (Traditional)
Dysentery (Traditional)
Dyspepsia (Traditional)
Eczema (Traditional)
Enteritis (Traditional)
Eye Infections (Traditional)
Eyes (red or itching) (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Hiatal Hernia (Traditional)
Ileocecal Valve (Traditional)
Incontinence (Traditional)
Indigestion (Traditional)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Traditional)
Interstitial Cystitis (Traditional)
Itching (Traditional)
Itching (rectal) (Traditional)
Itching Ears (Traditional)
Kidney Infection (Traditional)
Kidney Stones (Traditional)
Lactose Intolerance (Traditional)
Laryngitis (Traditional)
Leaky Gut Syndrome (Traditional)
Lesions (Traditional)
Leucorrhea (Traditional)
Overacidity (Traditional)
Pertussis (Traditional)
Pets (supplements for) (Traditional)
Pleurisy (Traditional)
Pneumonia (Traditional)
Poison Ivy or Oak (Traditional)
Poisoning (food) (Traditional)
Prolapsed Colon (Traditional)
Prolapsed Uterus (Traditional)

Body Systems

Appendix (Traditional)
Bladder (Traditional)
Bronchials (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Lymphatics (Traditional)
Mucus Membranes (Traditional)
Small Intestines (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
Rectum (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)