Herbs & Botanicals

Product Description

Botanical Name: Althaea officinalis

Plant Family: Malvaceae (Mallow family)

Botanical Description:
Althaea officinalis, commonly known as marshmallow, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. It belongs to the Malvaceae family and is characterized by its tall, erect stems, velvety green leaves, and pale pink to white flowers. Marshmallow typically grows to a height of 1-2 meters and thrives in damp, marshy habitats, along riverbanks, and in moist meadows. The leaves of marshmallow are broad, heart-shaped, and deeply lobed, with toothed margins. The flowers are small and bell-shaped, arranged in clusters along the stems. Marshmallow blooms from mid-summer to early autumn and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden. The plant produces small, round fruits containing numerous seeds. Marshmallow is valued for its mucilaginous properties, which are found in its roots, leaves, and flowers.

Introduction:
Marshmallow has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, dating back to ancient times. Historically it was used internally and externally to soothe and protect mucous membranes, alleviate inflammation, and promote healing. Marshmallow is still commonly used as a food supplement and in herbal preparations to this day.

Preparations:
Tea: Prepare marshmallow root tea by steeping dried marshmallow root in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain the infusion and drink it as a tea. Marshmallow root tea may be consumed warm or chilled and sweetened with honey if desired.
Decoction: Prepare a marshmallow root decoction by simmering dried marshmallow root in water for 15-20 minutes. Strain the decoction and allow it to cool. Use the decoction as a wash or compress.
Tincture: Prepare a marshmallow tincture by macerating dried marshmallow root in alcohol (such as vodka or brandy) for several weeks. Strain the tincture and store it in a dark glass bottle. Take the tincture orally by diluting it in water or juice according to the dosage instructions provided on the product label or by a qualified herbalist.
Capsules: Marshmallow capsules or tablets are available for convenient consumption. Follow the dosage instructions provided on the product label or consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner for appropriate dosing.
Topical Application: Prepare a marshmallow-infused oil by macerating dried marshmallow root in a carrier oil (such as olive oil or almond oil) for several weeks. Strain the infused oil and use it topically as a moisturizer, massage oil, or ointment. Marshmallow-infused creams, lotions, and ointments are also available for topical use.