Marshmallow root is usually considered to be safe. However, speaking with your physician before taking this herb is essential. Also, it's not intended to replace any prescription medication regimen.
Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) is a perennial plant found in Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. It has long been utilized as a traditional remedy for respiratory, digestive, and skin ailments.
Its healing abilities are due to its mucilage. It's usually consumed in capsules, tinctures, or tea forms. It's also found in cough and skin care syrups.
Read on to find details about the therapeutic power of this plant.
1. It could help in treating colds and coughs.
The high content of mucilaginous compounds in marshmallow root could be a beneficial treatment for colds and coughs.
A 2005 study showed that an herbal cough syrup containing marshmallow root proved efficient in easing coughs caused by bronchitis, colds, or respiratory tract infections that produce mucus. The active ingredient in the syrup was a dried extract of ivy leaves. The syrup also contained thyme and aniseed.
In just 12 days, all of the patients experienced an 86-90 percent improvement in their symptoms. However, more studies are required to verify these results.
Marshmallow root may act as an enzyme that loosens mucous and stops bacteria growth. Tablets that contain marshmallow root extract can help with dry coughs as well as inflammation of the throat.
How to utilize: Take 10 milliliters (mL) of marshmallow root syrup each day. You can also consume a few cups of tea bags containing marshmallows during the day.
2. It could help alleviate irritations to the skin.
The anti-inflammatory properties of marshmallow root could help reduce skin irritations caused by Eczema, furunculosis, and dermatitis.
A study published in 2013 showed that applying an ointment containing 20 percent extract of marshmallow root lessened skin irritation. Researchers have suggested that the plant stimulates certain cells that possess anti-inflammatory properties.
In its form, it was less effective than an ointment with an anti-inflammatory synthetic medication. However, an ointment with both components had more incredible anti-inflammatory properties than ointments with just one ingredient.
Further research is needed to confirm and further elaborate on these results.
How to apply: Apply an ointment containing 20% marshmallow root extract to the affected area three times a day.
How to test a patch on your skin: It's crucial to perform a patch test before applying any topical medicine. For this, use a dime-sized amount on the inside part of the forearm. If you don't notice any discomfort or inflammation after 24 hours, it will remain safe for use in other areas of your body.
3. It can aid in the healing of wounds.
Marshmallow root contains antibacterial properties that could make it useful for healing wounds.
The findings of a 2015 animal study suggest that marshmallow root extract may be useful in treating Gram-positive bacteria. These bacteria cause about 50 percent of illnesses and are resistant to antibiotics, “super bacteria.” If applied topically to rats' wounds, the extract dramatically improved wound healing compared to antibiotics.
It's believed to speed up healing and decrease inflammation. However, further studies are needed to confirm these claims.
How to apply: Apply a cream or ointment containing marshmallow root extracts to the affected region three times daily.
How to perform the test of a patch on your skin: It's essential to perform a patch test prior to taking any topical medication. Rub an amount of dime-sized on within your forearm's innermost to test this. If you don't feel any inflammation or irritation within 24 hours, the product should work fine on other areas of your body.
4. It can help promote the overall general health of the skin.
When subjected to UV (UV) ultraviolet (UV) radiation, Marshmallow root can improve your skin's appearance. Anyone who has ever been in the sun can benefit from applying a topical marshmallow root.
Research from the laboratory of 2016 has supported the use of marshmallow root extract in formulations for UV-treated skin care. Researchers must learn more about the extract's chemical composition and practical applications.
How to apply: Apply a cream or ointment containing marshmallow root extract in the morning and at night. It is possible to apply it more frequently after sun exposure.
How to conduct a skin patch test: It's important to conduct a patch test prior to applying any topical medicine. To test this, rub a dime-sized amount on the inside part of the forearm. If you don't notice any inflammation or irritation within 24 hours, it will be okay to use it elsewhere.
5. It could be used as a pain relief
A 2014 study mentions research showing that marshmallow root could serve as an analgesic and ease discomfort. This could make marshmallow root a great option for treating ailments that cause irritation or pain, like a sore throat or an abscess.
How to utilize: Take 2-5 mL of liquid marshmallow extract thrice daily. You may also use the extract when you first notice discomfort.
6. It could be used as a diuretic
Marshmallow root is also able to function as a diuretic. Diuretics assist the body to rid itself of excess fluid. This aids in cleansing the bladder and kidneys.
Another study indicates that this extract may aid your urinary tract's overall health. One study from 2016 suggests that marshmallows' soothing effects may ease irritation and inflammation of the urinary tract. Studies from the year 2015
It also suggests that its antibacterial properties could aid in treating urinary tract infections.
How to make use of: Make fresh marshmallow root tea by adding 1 cup boiling water and 2 tablespoons of dried root. You can also purchase bags of marshmallow tea. You can sip a few cups in the course of your day.
7. It may aid in digestion
Marshmallow root can also treat various digestive ailments, including heartburn, constipation, and colic in the intestines.
Research conducted in 2011 revealed that marshmallow flower extract showed potential benefits in treating gastric ulcers in rats. The anti-ulcer effect was evident after the extract was taken for a month. Further research is required to investigate these findings.
How to utilize: Take 2-5 mL of liquid marshmallow extract thrice daily. The extract can also be used at the first indication of discomfort.
8. It could help in repairing the gut liner
Marshmallow root is a good remedy for digestive tract inflammation and irritation.
A 2010 study conducted in vitro revealed that polysaccharides and aqueous extracts from marshmallow roots can soothe irritation of mucous membranes. Studies suggest that the root's mucilage-rich content creates an ointment that protects the tissue in the digestive tract's lining. The root of a marshmallow may also help boost the cells that aid in tissue regeneration.
Further research is required to expand on these findings further.
How to utilize: Take 2-5 ml of marshmallow extract in liquid form 3 times a day. You may also drink the extract when you first notice discomfort.
9. It could serve as an antioxidant.
Marshmallow root is antioxidant-rich and can shield the body from the damage caused by free radicals.
A 2011 study revealed that marshmallow root extract contains antioxidants similar to those used in standard recipes. Although it showed strong total antioxidant capacity, further studies are needed to build on these findings.
How to use: Take 2-5 mL of marshmallow extract in liquid form three times daily.
10. It can help support the health of your heart.
Researchers are studying the possibility of using marshmallow flower extracts to treat various heart ailments.
A 2011 study conducted on animals examined the effects of the liquid marshmallow flower extract on lipemia, platelet aggregation, and inflammation, which are often connected to cardiovascular disease. Researchers discovered that taking the flower extract for a month had a positive impact on HDL cholesterol, thus promoting cardiovascular health. More research is required to investigate these results further.
How to make use of: Take 2-5 mL of marshmallow extract in liquid form 3 times daily.
Potential side effects and risk
It is typically tolerated. However, in certain instances, it may cause stomach upset and dizziness. Starting with a small dosage and gradually increasing to a higher dose could help reduce the chance of experiencing side effects.
Consuming marshmallow root in 8 ounces of water will also lower the risk of adverse negative effects.
It is recommended that marshmallow root be used only for 4 weeks at a time. Make sure you take an entire week off before you resume use.
If applied topically, it may irritate the skin. Always conduct the test with a patch before applying the product in full.
Please discuss with your physician when you're taking other medicines before starting marshmallow root since it's been discovered to interact with lithium and other diabetes medications. It can also be a stomach-lining agent that blocks the absorption of different drugs.
Avoid use if you:
- are you nursing or pregnant?
- are diabetic
- are scheduled for surgery in the coming two weeks
The final line
While marshmallow roots are generally regarded as safe for use, you must consult with your physician prior to taking them. The herb doesn't intend to replace a doctor-approved treatment program.
If your doctor has given you the go-ahead, include the topical or oral dose in your daily routine. You can lower the chances of developing adverse reactions by beginning with a small amount and gradually increasing the dose as time passes.
If you notice unusual side effects, stop using the medication and consult your physician.