Evidence supporting the use of: Marshmallow
For the body system: Bladder

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) root has a long history of traditional use for supporting the urinary tract, including the bladder. In traditional European herbal medicine, marshmallow root was often used to soothe mucous membranes throughout the body, including the urinary tract. The root is particularly rich in mucilage, a gelatinous substance that is thought to coat and soothe irritated tissues. Herbalists have traditionally recommended marshmallow root as a demulcent for urinary tract irritation, including conditions such as cystitis and bladder discomfort.

Scientific evidence for marshmallow’s effects on the bladder is limited. Some in vitro studies and animal models suggest that marshmallow root extracts may have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties on mucous membranes. However, there are no substantial clinical studies in humans that specifically evaluate its efficacy for bladder health or urinary tract support. Most references to its use in this context are based on tradition and historical herbal literature rather than robust scientific validation. As such, while marshmallow continues to be included in some herbal formulas for urinary tract support, its use is justified primarily by tradition rather than modern clinical evidence.

More about marshmallow
More about Bladder