Marshmallow
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis L.) is a perennial plant valued for the mucilage in its roots. Its preparations have traditionally been used to soothe irritated mucous membranes of the throat, mouth, and digestive tract.
What are the benefits of marshmallow?
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Soothes an irritated throat and oral mucous membranes
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May reduce the feeling of a dry, scratchy throat
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May ease a dry, irritating cough
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Helps maintain a comfortable digestive tract lining
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Has softening and protective properties
When might marshmallow help?
Marshmallow may be helpful when:
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You feel dryness, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat
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A dry, irritating cough is bothering you
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The mouth or throat lining feels irritated
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You notice discomfort in the stomach or intestinal lining
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You want to gently calm irritated mucous membranes
Natural sources of marshmallow
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis L.) is grown and harvested for its roots, which are rich in mucilage. Dried marshmallow root, along with its powder and extracts, is used in food supplements and can be found in capsules, tablets, teas, or liquid preparations.
Recommended marshmallow dosage
The recommended amount of marshmallow can vary depending on the raw material used and how it has been prepared. In traditional preparations, adults may use around 0.5-5 g of shredded root per dose, with a total daily amount of up to 15 g. If a root extract is used, these figures don't apply directly, since extract concentration can vary. When choosing a supplement, it's important to follow its composition and the manufacturer's recommended dosage.
Possible side effects of marshmallow and interactions with medications
Marshmallow is generally well tolerated, but more sensitive individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort or an allergic reaction. Because of its mucilage content, it can slow the absorption of other preparations taken at the same time, so it's recommended to leave a gap of a few hours between marshmallow preparations and other medications.
