Marshmallow Root: Health Benefits, Uses, Side Effects & More!
By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Jul 2, 2024Click to rate this article!
[Total: 1 Avg: 5]
Get,
to manage your symptom
Get your,
4 Cr+ families
benefitted
OTP sent to 9988776655
You’ve successfully subscribed to receive
doctor-approved tips on
Whatsapp
Get ready to feel your best.
Register to Avail the Offer
Send OTPBy continuing, you agree with our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions
Hi There,
Trusted by 4 crore+ families
OTP sent to 9988776655
You have unlocked 25% off on medicines
Code: NU25
By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Jul 2, 2024Table of Contents
Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) has been held in high regard for centuries as both a food and a medicine. Commonly found in Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa, it contains a gummy substance called mucilage that forms a slick gel when mixed with water. This gel is said to provide various soothing and protective benefits, adding to its allure. In this article, we will delve deep into the world of marshmallow root, exploring its history, how it works, and its numerous potential health benefits backed by research.
Did you know?
The history of marshmallow root spans more than 2,000 years. Starting in Europe, western Asia, and North Africa, its use has now spread worldwide. The Romans, Chinese, Egyptians, and Syrians enjoyed it as a food source. The Arabs used its leaves to make skin-soothing bandages.
Marshmallow plants first grew in salty soils. Nowadays, they flourish in damp, wild spaces. The stems can reach 3-4 feet tall. Their roots are long and thick. They have round leaves with jagged edges and soft hairs. Its flowers have five pink-white petals.
The leaves and roots contain useful compounds. Mucilage is an important one amongst them. It is said to form a soothing layer on the throat, stomach, and skin when mixed with water.
It might help manage cough and cold. The mucilage present in it is said to coat and soothe the throat.
Marshmallow root acts like an enzyme. It helps break up mucus and halt bacteria. Once it touches the throat and the airways, the plant’s protective layer offers quick repair and recovery.
A 2005 study found a cough syrup with marshmallow root helpful in managing cough that developed due to mucus production as a result of bronchitis, colds, etc. Another study saw children who consumed an herbal mix with marshmallow root. They suffered fewer coughs and night wakes than ones who received a placebo. This suggests that more research into marshmallow root as a cough and cold remedy is required.
You may use creams and ointments with marshmallow root extract to manage eczema, boils, dermatitis, and sun damage. Owing to its proposed anti-inflammatory, wound repair, and antibacterial property.
Some rat studies show how marshmallow extract speeds up wound repair. It also fights gram-positive bacteria which may avoid infection. More research is needed to confirm these findings in humans.
In one rat study, marshmallow root beats antibiotic controls in wound repair. It was found to kill certain bacteria types. This can reduce the risk of infection. Again, more human studies are needed.
A 2016 study points out that marshmallow root can refresh the look of sun-damaged skin. The researchers found that the marshmallow root extract aids overall skin health. It is proposed to stimulate cells that endorse tissue re-growth. More research is needed to understand the mechanism of action.
It is said to provide a soothing and hydrating barrier for the skin.
Besides hydrating, marshmallow root likely boosts skin elasticity. This may result in a younger, fresher look. By forming a barrier on the skin and raising skin-moisture content, marshmallow root may ward off fine lines and wrinkles.
Some studies flag marshmallow root as a possible mild pain reliever. It may help soothe small wounds, sores, painful throat, or skin discomforts. By calming inflamed tissues and offering a topical numbing effect.
The plant contains working compounds like mucilage and flavonoids. These offer anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. These properties may be helpful in calming inflammation and pain linked to various conditions.
Marshmallow root may help ease a range of pains. For example, sore throat, mouth ulcers, or skin discomforts worsened by grazes, burns, or inflammation.
Marshmallow root has diuretic properties. This means it helps increase urine output. It comes in handy in flushing out excess fluids. This may further improve kidney and bladder health.
With its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, the herb may help reduce water retention. This might relieve edema symptoms.
By increasing urination, marshmallow root might aid in clearing out toxins built up in the kidneys. This could keep kidneys healthy overall. However, more research is needed to look into its complete impact on kidney function.
Marshmallow root may be useful in managing various gut issues. An example is constipation, heartburn, and intestinal colic. Research points out its potential for calming the gastrointestinal tract’s mucosa. This provides relief from discomfort and promotes overall gut health.
Marshmallow root carries compounds that may help stir smooth muscle contractions in the gut. Thus, improving gut movement. Better motility may ease digestion and alleviate issues like constipation or bowel disorders.
Marshmallow root’s mucilage offers a protective coat for the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. This may help ease gut discomfort and swelling.
Its mucilage may form a protective layer over the gut lining. This layer is said to support recovery and lower inflammation in the digestive system.
There isn’t much research backing marshmallow root for lowering gut permeability. Yet, anecdotal evidence hints that it may help flank the gut lining and decrease gastrointestinal inflammation.
There isn’t enough research on how marshmallow root helps in managing leaky gut. This is a condition where the digestive tract lining allows food particles and toxins into the bloodstream. However, given its ability to form protective layer on the gut lining, marshmallow root may offer some benefit in this case.
Marshmallow root’s mucilage has antioxidant power. This may help protect the body from free radical damage. A 2011 study found strong antioxidant activity in marshmallow root extract. This points to potential health benefits in fighting off oxidative stress. More research is warranted.
Research suggests positive effects of marshmallow flower extract on HDL cholesterol levels. This may help with heart health. One study saw better heart health markers after taking liquid marshmallow flower extract for one month. This suggests a potential cardiac benefit. More research is needed to corroborate these early findings.
No specific studies looked into marshmallow root’s direct effects on blood pressure. Yet, its antioxidant and diuretic properties might improve blood pressure control. These bring about excess fluid removal and lower inflammation markers, which indirectly might be heart-friendly. More research is required.
Some people might be allergic to marshmallow root. Before use, do a patch test. If there’s no reaction after 24-48 hours, it’s probably safe for you.
Marshmallow root might interact with certain medicines, like lithium and diabetes drugs. You should always consult with your healthcare professional before starting on marshmallow root.
Not enough data is available to determine if marshmallow root is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It might be best to play it safe and avoid the herb during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
People with diabetes should be careful with marshmallow root. It likely affects blood sugar levels. If you are going to undergo a surgery in the next two weeks, stop taking marshmallow root. It can interact with blood sugar control during and after the surgery.
You can brew marshmallow root in hot water to make a soothing tea. Drinking it might offer relief for coughs, colds, sore throats, and help digestive function.
The recipe is as follows.
The marshmallow root powder is an alternative way to enjoy the herb’s benefits. You can mix it into water or juice. Or, add it to recipes as a nutrition booster.
For dosage advice, check the product package. The typical advice is to take up to 6 grams of powdered root per day in divided doses. Always consult with your doctor first before incorporating it.
You may apply cream or ointment containing 20% marshmallow root extract to the affected area thrice daily.
You can also make your own skin therapy with marshmallow tea or liquid extract mixed in coconut oil. Apply this mixture directly to sore or inflamed skin for relief.
Always make it a point to consult your doctor before incorporating marshmallow root in any form.
The potential health benefits of marshmallow root include relieving coughs and colds, promoting wound repair, soothing skin irritation, and supporting overall gut health. You can take it as tea, powder, or topical applications, providing a natural remedy for a variety of minor ailments.
Remember, marshmallow root is not a replacement for normal medical therapy. It should be used as a supportive therapy. Always discuss with your healthcare professional before adding marshmallow root to your regimen. This ensures its harmony with your personal needs and current medications.
Yes, it’s usually fine to take marshmallow root daily in suggested doses. Take it for up to four weeks at a time. Then, take a one-week break before starting again. Always consult your doctor before incorporating it into your daily routine. If you develop any side effects, stop it, and visit your doctor.
Commonly safe, marshmallow root might cause some light side effects. These include an upset stomach or dizziness. It could also interact with certain medicines. Also, it should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to limited studies done in these individuals.
Marshmallow root forms a soothing, protective layer over the gut lining surface. This likely helps lower gut inflammation and aid in repair of the damaged gut lining.
At present, there isn’t solid scientific evidence about the effects of marshmallow roots on hormones. If you are worried about hormonal imbalances, discuss with your healthcare professional before using marshmallow root.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Leave your comment...
Comments