Name of Plant: Althea officinalis

MARSHMALLOW THE SOOTHING BRONCHIAL AND DIGESTIVE HERB

GENERAL

This genus is made up of about 12 species of annuals and perennials, which closely resembles the hollyhock group of plants. In fact the hollyhock has similar medicinal properties, though less effective. The name Althea comes from the Greek word altha, ‘to cure’ referring to its many healing qualities. The majority of these attributes are found in the roots which were once powdered to make soft pastilles (pate de guimauve) for sore throats and coughs. The original confectionary, marshmallow was made from these roots. The marshmallow we get today has none of the root in it.

RESEARCH

Natural Crude Extract:

• Mucilage content of the root softens tissue, has expectorant qualities and controls bacterial infections by stimulation of phagocytosis and hypoglycaemic activity.
• Asparagin helps sooth urinary and bladder conditions
• Flavonoids such as a kaempferol and quercitins which are anti-oxidant.

CULINARY AND MEDICINAL USES:

Armenians and the Romans ate the roots as a vegetable and found it invaluable during times of famine.

Roots can be boiled and then fried in butter. Young spring tops are added to salads and the immature seed heads( cheeses) are edible. They may be gently sautéed and added to a vegetable platter.

Marshmallow is healing and soothing to the stomach and is commonly used to treat ulcers and intestinal inflammations. We have found its use invaluable in the treatment of racehorses commonly plagued with digestive problems. It is a specific treatment for tight coughs, urinary tract conditions and prostrate problems. A tea can be made by soaking the roots in cold water to extract the mucilage rather than the starch.

Root extract may be used as a substitute for egg white in meringue or mixed with sugar, gum Arabic and egg white to make marshmallow confectionary.

HARVEST:

Roots are lifted early winter. Leaves and flowers may be picked throughout the growing season.

CULTIVATION:

The term ‘marsh’ refers clearly to its preference. It like damp to wet soil and, surprisingly, slightly brackish water. It would be quite happy in a coastal environment provided there is sufficient water.

MALLOW SYRUP:

100 grams of dried marshmallow roots

50 grams of raisins

1 tsp of cardamon seeds

The zest and juice of one orange

4 litres of water

Reduce the liquid by one quarter to 3 litres, cool and strain through a coarse strainer. This will be thick and jelly-like.

 Use as a cough syrup. This can be used as a spread for muffins.

Disclaimer: Information in this article is not to be used in place of professional medical advice and expertise. For diagnosis and treatment always see your health professional.