Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) has been used as an herbal remedy for thousands of years. It was originally popularly used for the sweet confection named after it but which is now usually made with other ingredients. One can still certainly make the original marshmallow candy at home. While it originally hails from Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa it now often grows wildly along with being cultivated in the Americas. As an herbal remedy, it may be ingested or topically applied. Marshmallow roots, cut or ground, and leaves are both often used herbally.

Marshmallow has myriad folk remedy uses:

Relieves Coughs
Mucilage coats the esophagus and soothes it. Mucilage soothes esophagus.

Promotes Skin Health
Helps heal sun-damaged skin.

Prevents Ulcers
Marshmallow flower extracts may protect the gut from gastric ulcers.

Helps Heal Wounds
Antibacterial properties assist in recovery from wounds.

Relieves Pain
Acts as an analgesic. soothes such pains as sore throat and abrasions.

Heals Gut
Soothes inflamed and irritated digestive tract.

Reduces Dry Mouth
Increases saliva which protects against cavities

Antioxidant Properties
Protects against free radicals linked to myriad ailments.

herb