Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) may offer health benefits such as easing coughs and colds, relieving skin irritation, alleviating pain, and more. However, more research is necessary.
Marshmallow root is generally safe to use. However, you should still talk with a medical professional before taking this herb. It should not replace any doctor-prescribed treatment plan.
Marshmallow root is a perennial herb native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. For thousands of years, it has been used as a folk remedy to treat digestive, respiratory, and skin conditions.
Its healing powers are due in part to the mucilage it contains. It’s typically consumed in capsule, tincture, or tea form.
It’s important to contact a doctor before taking marshmallow root in any form to ensure it’s a safe and effective treatment for your specific condition or symptoms. Some people may be allergic to marshmallow root.
Keep reading to find out more about the possible health benefits of marshmallow root.
The high mucilaginous content of marshmallow root may make it a useful remedy for treating coughs and colds.
Marshmallow root appears to act as an enzyme to loosen mucous and inhibit bacteria.
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Learn more about home remedies for a dry cough.
The anti-inflammatory effect of marshmallow root may help relieve skin irritation caused by conditions such as furunculosis and eczema.
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When used alone, the extract was slightly less effective than an ointment containing an anti-inflammatory synthetic drug. However, an ointment containing both ingredients had higher anti-inflammatory activity than the ointments containing only one or the other.
More research is necessary to confirm and elaborate upon these findings.
Marshmallow root has antibacterial activity that may make it effective in wound healing.
The results of one
This means it may speed up the healing time and reduce inflammation, but further research is necessary to confirm these findings.
Learn about foods that can help with healing.
Marshmallow root may be used to enhance the appearance of skin that has been exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Although laboratory research from 2016 suggests that marshmallow root reduced UV-induced DNA damage in cultured skin, there’s currently no evidence to suggest that it would be beneficial for use as part of your skin care routine.
Learn about skin care routines.
A study from 2014 cites research that marshmallow root can act as an analgesic to relieve pain.
However, more research is necessary.
Learn more about natural pain relievers.
Marshmallow root has the potential to act as a diuretic. Diuretics help the body flush out excess fluid. This helps to cleanse the kidneys and the bladder.
More research is necessary to determine the benefits of marshmallow root for urinary health.
Research from 2011 found that marshmallow flower extract demonstrated potential benefits in treating gastric ulcers in rats.
However, more research is necessary to expand upon these findings.
Further research is necessary to expand upon these findings.
Marshmallow root
Research from 2004 found marshmallow root extract to be comparable to standard antioxidants. Although it demonstrated strong total antioxidant activity, further research is necessary.
Learn about foods high in antioxidants.
Scientists are investigating the potential of marshmallow flower extract in treating various heart conditions.
A 2011 animal study examined the effects of liquid marshmallow flower extract for treating lipemia, platelet aggregation, and inflammation, which are sometimes linked to cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found that taking the flower extract for 1 month had a positive effect on HDL cholesterol levels, promoting heart health. However, more research is necessary.
Learn more about ways to improve heart health.
Some people can be allergic to marshmallow root.
If you apply marshmallow root topically, marshmallow root has the potential to cause skin irritation.
It’s best to talk with your doctor before taking marshmallow root. They can advise on its safety and whether it may interact with any medications you’re currently taking.
Marshmallow root may not be safe for people who are pregnant or nursing.
Although more research is necessary to determine the health benefits of marshmallow root, some findings suggest it may help treat coughs and colds, relieve skin irritation, and help with wound healing.
Marshmallow root may also have the potential to improve skin health, act as a diuretic, provide antioxidants, and relieve pain.
Although marshmallow root is generally considered safe to use, you should still talk with your doctor before taking or using it. The herb isn’t meant to replace any doctor-approved treatment plan.