Marshmallow Root Herb Profile

Marshmallow Root is an herb that has been around for centuries. In fact, it was mentioned in Homer’s Iliad (written 2800 years ago). It was used in ancient Greek and Indian cultures for its healing properties.

Benefits of Marshmallow Root

Mountain Rose Herbs details some of the many  uses:

Marshmallow root has long been used as a food, particularly during times of famine when it is more abundant than other vegetables. Medicinally, it has been approved by the German Commission E in supporting inflammation of the gastric mucosa, and for irritation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa. When combined with other herbs, it is additionally used for mild respiratory symptoms, including cough. The root is traditionally used to support a healthy digestive system, but this application has not been clinically studied.

It is a demulcent herb, meaning that it is cooling, soothing and slippery. It is often used to sooth digestion, skin or hair. It is unique in that when making a tea with Marshmallow Root, you will want to brew it with cold water to preserve the mucilaginous properties. This explains:

Marshmallow works as a mucilage, producing a thick sticky substance that coats membranes. Marshmallow extract contains flavanoids, which contain anti-inflammatory properties. The flavanoids are able to reduce inflammation while the mucilage holds them in place and prevents further damage. The extracts also induce phagocytosis, which is the process in which certain cells engulf bacteria, dead cell tissues or other solid particles. This helps speed up the healing process. The mucilage remains unaltered until it reaches the colon, which is why marshmallow works well on most inflammatory digestive disorders.

Marshmallow root has not been specifically studies in pregnancy and nursing so consult a doctor or midwife before using this or any other product if you are pregnant, nursing or have a medical condition.

Uses of Marshmallow Root

Some ways that we use it:

• As a soothing tea during colds, flu or sore throats.
• For digestive problems like heartburn, stomach illness or occasional digestive troubles. I usually mix with peppermint leaf or ginger to make a soothing tea.
• On skin– It makes a great addition to lotions, salves and tinctures for the skin. Also good for eczema and soothing sunburn.
• In hair– I use the dried root in my homemade detangling hair spray (great for kids).
• Urinary problems– I’ve used Marshmallow Root tea at the first sign of urinary or bladder infection to help speed healing.
• Homemade Marshmallows– We use a tea made from the dried root in our homemade marshmallow recipe. It is option but adds extra flavor and a health boost.

Where to Get Marshmallow Root

• I order in bulk here by the pound.
• I’ve also ordered in capsule form for easy use.
• If you won’t use a whole pound, you can order teabags to use as tea or in the detangling spray recipe, marshmallow recipe or on skin.
• I’ve also ordered a pre-made herbal salve that contains marshmallow root and is is great for wound healing, skin irritation and more.

Soothing Marshmallow Tea Recipe:

The easiest way to try Marshmallow root is in a cooling and soothing tea. This one is my favorite:

Marshmallow Root Tea Recipe

A simple and cooling Marshmallow Root tea to improve digestion

Author Katie Wells

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Servings

Ingredients

• 1 TBSP  Marshmallow Root
• 1 tsp Peppermint Leaf optional- for taste
• 1 cup warm not boiling water

Instructions

• Combine the herbs and water in a pint size mason jar and put on the lid.
• Shake gently and put in refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
• Strain and drink cool.

Ever used marshmallow root? What did you use it for? Share below!