BREATHING & LUNGS

Marshmallow root

Althaea officinalis

also known as Althaea, Mallards

Moderate (traditional + soothing)

Marshmallow root — Köhler 1887 botanical illustration

A pink-flowered marsh plant whose root is rich in mucilage — a slippery, gel-like substance that coats and soothes irritated tissue. Used since ancient Egyptian and Greek medicine for sore throats, dry coughs, and digestive irritation. The original marshmallow candy was made from this root before sugar took over.

Coats and soothes irritated tissues along the throat, esophagus, stomach, and intestines
Eases dry, irritated cough — especially the kind that lingers after a cold
Supports recovery from heartburn, gastritis, and minor stomach ulcers
Topical use eases minor skin irritation, dry skin, and minor wounds
Long traditional use for urinary tract irritation
Generally very safe — one of the gentlest herbs in the soothing category

Active in Mucilage polysaccharides, Flavonoids, Asparagine, Pectin.

May reduce absorption of medications taken at the same time — separate doses by at least an hour

May lower blood sugar slightly — caution with diabetes medication

Best prepared as a cold-water infusion to extract the mucilage; hot water works but is less effective

Skip during pregnancy at high medicinal doses — limited safety data, though traditional culinary use is considered safe

Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs · EMA Herbal Medicinal Product Monographs · American Botanical Council HerbMedPro

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