Marshmallow Root

50g (1.76oz)

Medicinal Name: Althaea officinalis

Properties: demulcent, diuretic, emollient, vulnerary, mild laxative

Treatment: indigestion, cough, sore throat, stomach pain, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, earache, allergic rhinitis

Description:

Marshmallow’s demulcent qualities bring relief to dry coughs, bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, and pleurisy. The flowers 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 may be given as a chewstick to teething babies.

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.

Marshmallow is a herb that can be used wherever soothing and healing properties are called for. The root is used mainly for digestive problems and on the skin, while the leaf is used for the lungs and the urinary system. This is not a strict differentiation but can be of therapeutic value. In all inflammations of the digestive tract, such as inflammations of the mouth, gastritis, peptic ulcer, enteritis and colitis, the root is strongly advised. Externally, the root is often used for varicose veins and ulcers as well as abscesses and boils

Preparation:

Infusion- pour boiling water onto 1–2 teaspoonsful of the dried leaf and let infuse for 10 minutes

Decoction- boil 1-2 tsp of roots for 10-15 minutes