Marshmallow

(Althaea officinalis)

Description

This herb brings back memories of sitting around the campfire toasting the delicious lolly called marshmallow. The marshmallow not only tastes great but has medicinal properties. Both the leaves and the roots of the five-foot-high marshmallow plant can be used for medicinal purposes. 

The roots can be helpful for acidic stomachs or for ulcers while the leaves are great for people who have low digestive enzymes in their stomachs.

It can also be used for cuts and wounds, mouth sores and other ailments. Babies who are teething are also able to benefit from sucking on a marshmallow root. 

How It May Benefit You

Take marshmallow internally for: 

• sore throat, coughs, colds, flu, bronchitis, sinusitis.
• upset stomach, peptic ulcers, gastritis, colitis
• cystitis, bladder infections, urethritis (inflammation of the urethra)
• kidney stones.

Apply marsh mallow externally for: 

• abscesses, boils, skin ulcers, cuts, burns, scrapes, other wounds.
• varicose veins.
• dental abscesses
• gingivitis.

Caution

Unfortunately, the lollies called marshmallow that are available almost anywhere have none of the marshmallow herb in them.

WARNING:    Herbs should only be used under the supervision of an experienced herbalist or naturopath experienced in herbs.

Availability

Available in dried bulk, capsules, tincture.