Marshmallow

Botanical Name
Althaea officinalis

Common Names
Moorish Mallow, Cheeses, White Maoow, Althea, Mortification Root, Sweet Weed, Wymote, Mallards, Schloss, Schloss Tea, Malvavisco, Kitmi, Bismalva

Parts Used
Root, leaves, flowers.

Introduction of Herb
Marshmallow is a perennial plant growing to a height of nearly 4 feet in some cases. Marshmallow is both cultivated as well as found growing wild in damp and wet places everywhere. The rootstock is white and sweetish like a parsnip, but with considerable mucilage to it. The plant sends up several unbranched, wooly stems with serrate, pubescent leaves. The axillary flowers are about 2 inches in width and can be either light red to white or royal purple in color.

Medical Applications
Marshmallow id Useful whenever a soothing effect is needed, marshmallow protects and soothes the mucous membranes. The root counters excess stomach acid, peptic ulceration, and gastritis. Marshmallow is also mildly laxative and beneficial for many intestinal problems, including regional ileitis, colitis, diverticulitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. Taken as a warm infusion, the leaves treat cystitis and frequent urination. Marshmallow's demulcent qualities bring relief to dry coughs, bronchial asthma, bronchial congestion, and pleurisy. The flowers, crushed fresh or in a warm infusion, are applied to help soothe inflamed skin. The root is used in an ointment for boils and abscesses, and in a mouthwash for inflammation. The peeled root of marshmallow may be given as a chewstick to teething babies.

How it Works
The mucilage is the main ingredient which acts to soothe and protect tissues in the body. Long used for complaints of the respiratory system, marshmallow is useful where inflammation occurs in conditions of bronchitis, pleurisy, and where there is a dry cough. It is also useful in the digestive system to help heal ulcers and gastric inflammation generally occurring in irritable bowel syndrome, etc. In the urinary tract it is used to calm irritated tissues in urinary tract infections such as cystitis. In skin problems where there are ulcers or boils, it is soothing and healing, and can be used as a poultice.

Side Effects
Marshmallow is very safe. Reports of allergic reactions are extremely rare.

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