Marshmallow Herb

Marshmallow (Althea officinalis) — the herb, not the white puffy confection roasted over a campfire — has been used for centuries as both a food and a medicine.

Both the flower petals and the roots of this plant can be used, says Rolf Stühmer in his book The Big Book of Health. The plant soothes irritations and relieves bronchitis, pharyngitis, hoarseness and sore throats. It is also suitable as a treatment for soothing and relieving stomach and bowel upsets.

Dried leaves may be used in infusions, fluid extracts, and tinctures. Marshmallow roots are available dried, peeled, or unpeeled in extracts (dry and fluid), tinctures, capsules, ointments/creams, and cough syrups.