Marshmallow Root: Nature's Laxative

Marshmallow root is a flowering plant that has been used in herbal medicine for centuries. It is used to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, skin irritation, and digestive problems such as constipation. The root forms a protective layer on the skin and the lining of the digestive tract, helping to soothe and alleviate conditions such as gastrointestinal upset and acting as a lubricant to help pass stool more easily. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to treat infections and reduce inflammation in the body.

Marshmallow root may help with constipation

The herb contains mucilage, a sap-like substance produced by the marshmallow plant. The mucilage forms a coating over the digestive tract, which may help with digestive issues. It also contains chemicals that might decrease coughs and help heal wounds.

A 2011 study found that marshmallow flower extract demonstrated potential benefits in treating gastric ulcers in rats. Another study, published in 2020, found that its antitussive properties and mucilage abilities allow it to decrease inflammation and irritation of the throat, reduce swelling in the lymph nodes, speed up healing time and reduce aggravating dry coughing.

To use marshmallow root for constipation relief, you can take it in capsule form or as a tea. For the latter, simply pour boiling water over the dried root, cover, and steep for 5 to 10 minutes. It will then be ready to strain and drink.

It can be used to treat skin irritation

Marshmallow root has been used for centuries to treat skin conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe skin irritation caused by furunculosis, eczema, and dermatitis.

A 2013 review found that an ointment containing 20% marshmallow root extract reduced skin irritation. The herb is thought to stimulate certain cells that have anti-inflammatory activity. While the extract on its own was slightly less effective than an ointment containing a synthetic anti-inflammatory drug, a combination of the two had the highest anti-inflammatory activity.

To use marshmallow root for skin irritation, apply an ointment containing 20% marshmallow root extract to the affected area three times a day. It is important to do a patch test before using any new topical medication. To do this, rub a small amount onto the inside of your forearm. If you don't experience any irritation or inflammation within 24 hours, it should be safe to use elsewhere.

In addition to treating skin irritation, marshmallow root has a range of other benefits, including treating coughs and colds, fighting bacterial infections, aiding digestion, and supporting heart health. It is typically consumed in capsule, tincture, or tea form, and is generally considered safe, although it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new herbal supplement.

It may help with wound healing

Marshmallow root has been used for centuries to treat wounds and skin conditions. Its effectiveness in wound healing is due to its antibacterial activity, which helps to prevent infection and speed up the healing process.

A 2015 animal study found that marshmallow root extract was effective in treating gram-positive bacteria, which are responsible for over 50% of bacterial infections. When applied topically to rat wounds, the extract significantly increased wound healing compared to antibiotic controls.

Marshmallow root is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce skin irritation and stimulate cells that support tissue regeneration. This may be particularly beneficial for people with eczema and dermatitis.

In addition to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, marshmallow root contains a compound called mucilage, which forms a protective gel-like coating on the skin when mixed with water. This coating can help to retain moisture and protect the skin from further damage.

While marshmallow root has a long history of use in folk medicine, more human-based research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in wound healing. However, its potential benefits in treating wounds and skin conditions make it a promising natural remedy.

It may be used to treat coughs and colds

Marshmallow root has been used for centuries to treat coughs and colds. In fact, references to the plant were made in Homer's "Iliad" over 2,800 years ago, as it was a popular way to treat coughs, sore throats, and congestion.

Today, marshmallow root is still used to treat coughs and colds, and it is often added to cough syrups and throat lozenges. The root contains a compound called mucilage, which creates a gel that can coat the throat and reduce irritation when combined with water. This forms a protective film on the inflamed mucosa, helping to decrease inflammation and irritation of the throat and reduce aggravating dry coughing.

A German survey found that most people who took marshmallow root extract lozenges or syrup for seven days to treat an irritated throat or dry cough reported that it helped relieve symptoms within 10 minutes. Another study found that marshmallow root mucilage had protective anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects on human immune cells, helping to protect the cells for better healing from infection.

Marshmallow root is also used to treat respiratory infections such as bronchitis and tonsillitis. It can be taken orally to reduce pain, swelling, and congestion. It is especially effective when combined with other anti-inflammatory and antibacterial herbs and essential oils, such as slippery elm, echinacea, and lemon, myrrh, oregano, cypress, and frankincense essential oils.

For respiratory issues, one to two teaspoons of powdered marshmallow root taken several times a day is generally considered safe and effective. Sipping on tea can also help soothe a cough and reduce phlegm.

It may help with stomach ulcers

Marshmallow root may help with stomach ulcers. The mucilage in marshmallow root creates a gel that can coat the stomach to reduce irritation. Marshmallow root is also thought to improve the lining of the digestive tract.

A 2015 study found that marshmallow flower extract could help protect the gut from gastric ulcers. Researchers tested the effects of the extract on rats, using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) to induce ulcers in the rodents. Rats that received marshmallow root were less likely to develop stomach ulcers than rats that did not get the extract.

The mucilage and flavonoids in the marshmallow plant may cover and protect the mucous lining of the stomach, which may reduce the risk of certain ulcers, including NSAID-associated ulcers.

However, there is no human evidence that marshmallow root can treat digestive tract conditions. The only research that supports the protective properties of marshmallow root on the digestive tract includes lab and animal studies.

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