Evidence supporting the use of: Marshmallow
For the health condition: Hiatal Hernia
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis), particularly its root, has been used traditionally in herbal medicine for various gastrointestinal complaints, including irritation of the mucous membranes, gastritis, and reflux-related discomforts. The demulcent (soothing, mucilage-forming) properties of marshmallow are believed to coat the esophagus and stomach lining, potentially reducing irritation and discomfort—symptoms sometimes associated with hiatal hernia, such as heartburn or acid reflux. Historical herbal texts and folk medicine sources recommend marshmallow for soothing the digestive tract, but these traditions pre-date modern clinical diagnostic categories like hiatal hernia.
Despite its traditional use, there is little to no direct scientific evidence specifically supporting marshmallow for the treatment or management of hiatal hernia. Most available studies focus on its general effects on mucous membranes and its ability to reduce irritation or inflammation in the throat and gastrointestinal tract in animal models or in vitro settings. There are no high-quality clinical trials that establish its efficacy for hiatal hernia symptoms. As a result, the evidence for using marshmallow root in this context is based more on historical use and anecdotal reports rather than robust scientific validation.
In summary, while marshmallow has a long history of use for gastrointestinal soothing, its role in supporting or treating hiatal hernia symptoms is justified primarily by tradition, and the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for this specific condition is weak.
Other ingredients used for Hiatal Hernia
aloe verachamomile
ginger
licorice root
marshmallow
slippery elm bark
alginic acid
Other health conditions supported by marshmallow
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Anal Fistula or Fissure
Appetite (deficient)
Asthma
Bladder (irritable)
Bladder (ulcerated)
Bronchitis
Burns and Scalds
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Cough (dry)
Cough (general)
Cuts
Duodenal Ulcers
Dysentery
Dyspepsia
Eczema
Enteritis
Eye Infections
Eyes (red or itching)
Gastritis
Hiatal Hernia
Incontinence
Indigestion
Inflammation
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders
Interstitial Cystitis
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Itching
Itching (rectal)
Itching Ears
Kidney Infection
Kidney Stones
Laryngitis
Leaky Gut Syndrome
Lesions
Leucorrhea
Overacidity
Pertussis
Pets (supplements for)
Phlebitis
Pleurisy
Pneumonia
Poison Ivy or Oak
Prolapsed Uterus
Psoriasis
Rashes and Hives
Sinus Infection
Sore Throat
Ulcerations (external)
Ulcers
Wounds and Sores
Products containing marshmallow
Integrative Therapeutics
Blue Heron
Pure Encapsulations
DGL Plus®
Pure Encapsulations
DGL Plus®
Pure Encapsulations
G.I. Fortify
Thorne
GI Relief GI-Encap
Designs For Health
GI Revive®
Designs For Health
GI Revive®
Pure Encapsulations
Heartburn Essentials
Pure Encapsulations
Heartburn Essentials
Vitabase
Prostate Complex (Formerly Prostate Complete)
Douglas Laboratories
Pylori-Plex
Integrative Therapeutics
Similase Sensitive Stomach
Integrative Therapeutics
Similase Sensitive Stomach