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Did you know there is a plant called “marshmallow?” The marshmallow treats we like to eat were originally made with the mucilage (kind of like sap) from this plant’s roots, which is where the candy got its fun name. The marshmallow plant wasn’t only used for sweet treats though; its healing powers have been used therapeutically for centuries.

Marshmallow root is anti-inflammatory, an anti-oxidant, supports mitochondria, and promotes wound healing.

Marshmallow root is a demulcent herb, like slippery elm or plantain, meaning that it decreases inflammation and creates a protective barrier (whether in the GI track, throat, or on the skin) against irritants. Marshmallow root has often been used to soothe sore throats and coughs through its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, polysaccharide-rich mucilage that, when ingested, coats the esophagus and soothes mucus membranes and the GI track.

Not just for sore throats and coughs

Marshmallow root is not only effective at soothing an irritated throat and coughing, but is also helpful for general GI support (including constipation and diarrhea), respiratory infections, dry mouth, protecting against ulcers, against heartburn, constipation, eczema, dermatitis, burns, and as a breastfeeding support (helps with engorgement and supply).

There are many ways to use marshmallow root, including as a tea (good for GI), making it into a salve for wounds, making it into a cough syrup, or into cough drops. I typically buy marshmallow root in powdered form since it can be used in a variety of applications. Many digestive supplements include marshmallow root powder; one of my favorites is Microbe Formulas TUDCA (digestive and drainage support). Marshmallow root is especially effective against sore throats when combined with other herbs such as thyme, elderberry, or lemon (you can do this when making into cough syrup, drops, or tea). I also like to add the powdered marshmallow root to healthy baked goods and of course to make marshmallows with it! My children particularly love the latter.

Because of the protective film marshmallow root puts on the intestinal wall, I would recommend consuming it away from supplements or vitamins so as not to prevent or diminish their absorption.

Herb Highlights are meant to be brief and provide a basic overview of the featured herb’s properties. If you would like more information about this particular plant, such as medicinal properties, chemical compounds, efficacy studies, and contraindications, I encourage you to explore the following links, and as always recommend doing your own research.

“Anti-inflammatory and Anti-oxidative Effects…” by Gabriel A. Bonaterra, Kevin Bronischewski, et al. 2020 March 17.

Short-course administration of a traditional herbal mixture…” by Asma Javid, Nasrinsadat Motevalli Haghi, et al. 2018.

“Medicinal plants used in treatment of inflammatory skin diseases” by Renata Dawid-Pać. 2013 June.

Each person’s body and needs are unique, though this herb is natural and considered safe by most, I am unaware of any pre-existing conditions or medications you may be taking and how those would interact; it is advisable to check with your doctor before starting anything new, especially if you are taking pharmaceutical medications. Herbs can interact with each individual differently, though many people experience the same effects, you may not get the same results when using certain herbs.

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