Marshmallow. Because of its high mucilage content, it soothes or cures
- inflammation
- ulcers
- sore throats
- and the pain of cystitis.
Infuse the leaves or flowers to make a gargle. An infusion of the root is useful for coughs, diarrhoea and insomnia. Marshmallow is useful in the treatment of dry coughs because of its antitussive, mucilaginous, and antibacterial properties, and prevents further irritation.. More recently, marshmallow has been used to treat certain digestive disorders, including:
- heartburn
- indigestion
- ulcerative colitis
- stomach ulcers
- and Chroane’s disease.
The mechanism by which it soothes sore throats applies to gastrointestinal mucosa as well and regular consumption of marshmallow can help with the pain of ulcerative colitis and Chroane’s, and prevent stomach ulcers from perforation. Marshmallow extract is sometimes added to creams and used to treat inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema and contact dermatitis. Additional uses are currently being investigated. There is tentative evidence that marshmallow may also help with respiratory disorders such as asthma. Researchers may soon test marshmallow as a natural alternative to blood sugar management in diabetes. All of the mallows bear lovely but short-lasting blossoms with thin, moist petals that become sticky if crushed. Althea is from the Greek althino, meaning “I cure.” It is so named because mallow has been used medicinally for centuries. The Greeks used marshmallow to treat
- wounds
- toothaches
- coughing
- and insect stings.
The Romans valued marshmallow roots and leaves for their laxative properties. Mallow is mentioned by Hippocrates and Culpepper in their herbal treatises. The confection marshmallows are so named because they were originally flavored with the roots of this herb.