Botanical name

Althaea officinalis

Also known as Common Marshmallow and White Mallow.

Soothing to the respiratory system, urinary tract and intestine, and valued as a tea for preventing or soothing the irritation that can be caused by some drugs and antibiotics.

Learn about Marshmallow

Because of the abundance of mucilage it contains, marshmallow is an excellent demulcent meaning that it is soothing to the respiratory system, urinary tract and intestines, and to any mucous membrane or internal or external part of the body that is inflamed. It has also been valued as a tea for preventing or soothing the irritation that can be caused by some drugs and antibiotics.

Marshmallow is useful to soothe the irritation of sore throats and coughs. It’s soothing demulcent action Read More

Love your Gut - Herbs for Healing & Soothing

Love your Gut - Herbs for Healing & Soothing
Love your Gut - Ease Bloating, Gas & Constipation

Love your Gut - Ease Bloating, Gas & Constipation
Love your Gut - Nourish Your Microbiome

Love your Gut - Nourish Your Microbiome

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I use Marshmallow Root or Marshmallow Leaf?

Both marshmallow root and marshmallow herb (leaf) come from the Althaea officinalis plant but have slightly different uses due to their properties:

Marshmallow Root
  • Best for: Digestive health, sore throats, coughs, and skin conditions.
  • Why? It has high mucilage content, which coats and soothes irritated tissues.
  • Uses:
Marshmallow Leaf
  • Best for: Respiratory health, urinary tract support, and mild anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Why? It has some mucilage but also mild diuretic and antimicrobial properties.
  • Uses:
Which One to Choose?
  • For sore throat or digestive issues → Root (best for mucilage).
  • For lung health or urinary support → Leaf (lighter, more antimicrobial).
  • For skin soothing → Both can work, but root has stronger mucilage for deep hydration.

Common Uses

Acid Indigestion, Coughs, Digestive Complaints, Eczema, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Inflammation, Kidney Health, Oedema, Psoriasis, Skin Conditions, Skin Health, Sore Throat, Stomach Ulcers, Tobacco Alternatives, Ulcers, Urinary Tract Infections, Constipation, Bronchitis, and Dry Coughs.

Herbal Actions

Anti-Inflammatory, Demulcent, Diuretic, Expectorant, Laxative, and Vulnerary.

Recipes

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Marshmallow Root Syrup

Marshmallow Root Syrup
Microbiome Boost Latté

Microbiome Boost Latté

Precautions

Marshmallow can reduce the absorption of other medications or supplements: take 2 hours away from each other.

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Isabell Shipard (2003), How Can I Use Herbs in My Daily Life?, p.207

David Hoffman (2003), Medical Herbalism, p. 5268166