Also known as Althaea officinalis, althaea root and mallow root, marshmallow roots are used in whole or powdered form for a variety of health enhancing benefits. Marshmallow root is a perennial herb that grew natively in areas that are damp in both northern Europe and the western sections of Asia. It has now also acclimated to the US's Atlantic coast. Besides having pretty purple flowers that make excellent decorations, marshmallow root has been used as an herbal treatment for a variety of ailments for more than 2800 years.

Marshmallow roots were first used as medicines in Greece - then in Arabia - then on to India to become important components of the Ayurvedic and Unani healing systems. The roots are classified as:

·           Soothing agents;

·           Demulcents;

·           Diuretics;

·           Emollients;

·           and vulneraries;

Health-enhancing marshmallow root constituents include:

·           Mucilage (arabinogalactans and galacturonorhamnan);

·           Asparagines;

·           Antioxidant flavonoids 8-hydroxyluteolin and 8-b-gentiobioside;

·           Coumarins;

·           Fats;

·           Kaempferol;

·           Phenolic acids;

·           Quercetin;

·           Sugars;

·           Tannins;

·           Volatile oil;

The roots of marshmallow plants are harvested, dried and used in cold macerations, tinctures, warm infusions and teas for the following:

·           Coating and effectively soothing inflamed and infected areas;

·           Relief from sore throat pains;

·           Perennial relief from soreness associated with severe diarrhea;

·           Helps with clearing away bladder infections;

·           and more!

Marshmallow root can help you to feel better when your suffering from a variety of inflammation-based maladies. It is wholly non-toxic, yet it can interfere with the absorption of other medications due to its mucilage content. Also, your urine may develop a distinct, yet mild odor because of the asparagine.