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Marshmallow Root is an herb that has been around for centuries. In fact, it was mentioned in Homer’s Iliad (written 2800 years ago). It was used in ancient Greek and Indian cultures for its healing properties.
Benefits of Marshmallow Root
Mountain Rose Herbs details some of the many uses:
Marshmallow root has long been used as a food, particularly during times of famine when it is more abundant than other vegetables. Medicinally, it has been approved by the German Commission E in supporting inflammation of the gastric mucosa, and for irritation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa. When combined with other herbs, it is additionally used for mild respiratory symptoms, including cough. The root is traditionally used to support a healthy digestive system, but this application has not been clinically studied.
It is a demulcent herb, meaning that it is cooling, soothing and slippery. It is often used to sooth digestion, skin or hair. It is unique in that when making a tea with Marshmallow Root, you will want to brew it with cold water to preserve the mucilaginous properties. This explains:
Marshmallow works as a mucilage, producing a thick sticky substance that coats membranes. Marshmallow extract contains flavanoids, which contain anti-inflammatory properties. The flavanoids are able to reduce inflammation while the mucilage holds them in place and prevents further damage. The extracts also induce phagocytosis, which is the process in which certain cells engulf bacteria, dead cell tissues or other solid particles. This helps speed up the healing process. The mucilage remains unaltered until it reaches the colon, which is why marshmallow works well on most inflammatory digestive disorders.
Marshmallow root has not been specifically studies in pregnancy and nursing so consult a doctor or midwife before using this or any other product if you are pregnant, nursing or have a medical condition.
Uses of Marshmallow Root
Some ways that we use it:
- As a soothing tea during colds, flu or sore throats.
- For digestive problems like heartburn, stomach illness or occasional digestive troubles. I usually mix with peppermint leaf or ginger to make a soothing tea.
- On skin– It makes a great addition to lotions, salves and tinctures for the skin. Also good for eczema and soothing sunburn.
- In hair– I use the dried root in my homemade detangling hair spray (great for kids).
- Urinary problems– I’ve used Marshmallow Root tea at the first sign of urinary or bladder infection to help speed healing.
- Homemade Marshmallows– We use a tea made from the dried root in our homemade marshmallow recipe. It is option but adds extra flavor and a health boost.
Where to Get Marshmallow Root
- I order in bulk here by the pound.
- I’ve also ordered in capsule form for easy use.
- If you won’t use a whole pound, you can order teabags to use as tea or in the detangling spray recipe, marshmallow recipe or on skin.
- I’ve also ordered a pre-made herbal salve that contains marshmallow root and is is great for wound healing, skin irritation and more.
Soothing Marshmallow Tea Recipe:
The easiest way to try Marshmallow root is in a cooling and soothing tea. This one is my favorite:
Marshmallow Root Tea Recipe
Servings
Ingredients
- 1 TBSP Marshmallow Root
- 1 tsp Peppermint Leaf optional- for taste
- 1 cup warm not boiling water
Instructions
- Combine the herbs and water in a pint size mason jar and put on the lid.
- Shake gently and put in refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
- Strain and drink cool.
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Ever used marshmallow root? What did you use it for? Share below!
Hello.
The marshmallow root you use is a powder??
Just wanting to clarify and thank you!
Sue
Hi Katie, can I mix Marshmallow root powder with Slipperry elm powder and drink it that way?
Is Marshmallow root good for Diverticulitis?
Hi Katie!!How long will this recipe last in the fridge once it is made? Thanks!
I keep reading that one should only take marshmallow root for 4 weeks at a time. How long would one wait inbetween times? If it eliminates me from taking heartburn medication and water pills that I need to take daily, then stopping after 4 weeks I wonder how soon I start up again? This is confusing.
Any thoughts on marshmallow flowers being used instead of root?
Is the powder or liquid extract best for skin/topical applications?
Adding to elderberry syrup, today!
The doctors won’t diagnose my three-year-old son with asthma they say he just has seasonal allergies. He coughs when he runs. And he’s definitely not able to sleep on his back because he randomly chokes on mucus. My son will cough until he vomits mucus. He was given Claritin to take everyday and I’m thinking that’s not good for his liver so I find marshmallow root and I give it to him mixed in his juice it doesn’t really do anything to the flavor just the consistency changes. He’s able to sleep through the night and it doesn’t matter what position he’s in. We can rest peacefully and he doesn’t cough at all.
I am going to try the marshmallow root tea for the IC i have developed which has been a year of full on intense symptoms. Using TCM herbs for bladder pain and UTI symptoms. The SIBO has created this condition I believe and have been striving for health for 4.5 years now.
Very few doctors know what to do with chronic illnesses. I live near a major city in Canada and still top docs will write you off as histrionic 🙁 I do have a good MD and ND now but, i have spent a fortune to get back to being able to work and lead a semi normal life. Sure would like to get rid of the SIBO and then feeling the IC will go there after.
I wonder what can help with constipation – could be I switch to slippery elm in the future.
SIBO creates B12, calcium and magnesium deficiencies but, then magnesium can assist biofilm formation? Sometimes we get into such a bind with conditions that create complexities that are hard to work around.. Take good care everyone!
Thanks Linda! You can try this.
It is also supposed to be a good support for the lungs and lymph nodes !
That is what I am drinking it for. I have chronic sinus problems and with the allergy season bieng so intense this year I am needing something for my lungs.
Linda 😀
Could you check on the bulk link above for the Marshmallow root. It does not go to the product by the pound.
I would love to purchase through you !
Thanks,
Linda
Would you think this can be added to the elderberry syrup recipe you’ve published? I make the elderberry brew a lot for my kids, and curious if I can add this for extra taste and nutrition. What are your thoughts?
I’ve never tried, but I don’t see why it wouldn’t work…