Marshmallow Root - Benefits, Side Effects, and More

Everything You Need to Know About
Marshmallow Root
Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC,
CHT — By Emily Cronkleton — Updated on March 30, 2019
Cough and cold Irritation Wound healing Skin Pain relief

Diuretic Digestion Digestive tract Antioxidant Heart
Side effects and risks Takeaway
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy
through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s
our process.
How we vet brands and products
What is marshmallow root?

Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) is a perennial herb that’s native to
Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. It’s been used as a folk
remedy for thousands of years to treat digestive, respiratory, and skin
conditions.
Its healing powers are due in part to the mucilage it contains. It’s typically
consumed in capsule, tincture, or tea form. It’s also used in skin products
and cough syrups.
Keep reading to find out more about the healing potential of this powerful
plant.
1. It may help treat coughs and colds

The high mucilaginous content of marshmallow root may make it a useful
remedy for treating coughs and colds.
A small study from 2005 found that an herbal cough syrup containing
marshmallow root was effective in relieving coughs due to colds,
bronchitis, or respiratory tract diseases with formation of mucus. The
active ingredient of the syrup was dry ivy leaf extract. It also contained
thyme and aniseed.
Within 12 days, all 62 participants experienced an 86 to 90 percent

improvement in symptoms. Further studies are needed to validate these
findings.
Marshmallow root appears to act as an enzyme to loosen mucous and

inhibit bacteria. Lozenges containing marshmallow root extract help dry
coughs and an irritated throat.
How to use: Take 10 milliliters (mL) of marshmallow root cough syrup

each day. You can also drink a few cups of bagged marshmallow tea
throughout the day.
2. It may help relieve skin irritation

The anti-inflammatory effect of marshmallow root may also help relieve
skin irritation caused by furunculosis, eczema, and dermatitis.
A review from 2013 found that using an ointment containing 20 percent

marshmallow root extract reduced skin irritation. Researchers suggested
that the herb stimulates certain cells that have anti-inflammatory activity.
When used alone, the extract was slightly less effective than an ointment
containing an anti-inflammatory synthetic drug. However, an ointment
containing both ingredients had higher anti-inflammatory activity than the
ointments containing only one or the other.
More research is needed to confirm and elaborate upon these findings.

How to use: Apply an ointment containing 20 percent marshmallow root
extract to the affected area 3 times per day.
How to do a skin patch test: It’s important to do a patch test before using
any topical medication. To do this, rub a dime-sized amount on to the
inside of your forearm. If you don’t experience any irritation or
inflammation within 24 hours, it should be safe to use elsewhere.
3. It may help with wound healing

Marshmallow root has antibacterial activity that may make it effective in
wound healing.
The results of one 2015 animal study  suggest that marshmallow root
extract has the potential to treat gram-positive bacteria . These bacteria
SUBSCRIBE
are responsible for over 50 percent of the infections that occur and
include the antibiotic-resistant
NUTRITION Special Diets “superEating
Healthy bugs.” When applied topically
Food Freedom to rat
Conditions
wounds, the extract significantly increased wound healing in comparison
to antibiotic controls.
It’s thought to speed up the healing time and reduce inflammation, but
further research is needed to confirm these findings.
How to use: Apply a cream or ointment containing marshmallow root

extract to the affected area three times per day.
4. It may promote overall skin health

Marshmallow root may be used to enhance the appearance of skin that
has been exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In other words, anyone
who’s ever been out in the sun may benefit from applying topical
marshmallow root.
Although laboratory research from 2016 supports the use of marshmallow
root extract in UV skin care formulations, researchers need to learn more
about the extract’s chemical makeup and practical applications.
How to use: Apply a cream, ointment, or oil containing marshmallow root

extract in the morning and evening. You can apply it more often after sun
exposure.
5. It may act as a pain reliever

A study from 2014 cites research that marshmallow root can act as an
analgesic to relieve pain. This may make marshmallow root an excellent
choice for soothing conditions that cause pain or irritation such as sore
throat or an abrasion.
How to use: Take 2–5 mL of liquid marshmallow extract 3 times per day.
You can also take the extract at the first sign of any discomfort.
6. It may work as a diuretic

Marshmallow root also has the potential to act as a diuretic. Diuretics help
the body to flush out excess fluid. This helps to cleanse the kidneys and
the bladder.
Other research suggests that the extract can support overall urinary
health. One 2016 study suggests that the soothing effect of marshmallow
can relieve internal irritation and inflammation in the urinary tract.
Research from 2015  also suggests that its antibacterial effect may be
useful in treating urinary tract infections.
How to use: Make fresh marshmallow root tea by adding a cup of boiling
water to 2 teaspoons of dried root. You can also buy bagged
marshmallow tea. Drink a few cups of tea throughout the day.
7. It may aid in digestion
Marshmallow root also has the potential to treat a wide range of digestive
conditions, including constipation, heartburn, and intestinal colic.
Research from 2011 found that marshmallow flower extract demonstrated

potential benefits in treating gastric ulcers in rats. Anti-ulcer activity was
noted after taking the extract for one month. More research is needed to
expand upon these findings.
8. It may help repair gut lining

Marshmallow root may help soothe irritation and inflammation in the
digestive tract.
An in vitro study from 2010 found that aqueous extracts and

polysaccharides from marshmallow root can be used to treat irritated
mucous membranes. Research suggests that the mucilage content
creates a protective layer of tissue on the lining of the digestive tract.
Marshmallow root may also stimulate the cells that support tissue
regeneration.
Further research is needed to expand upon these findings.
How to use: Take 2–5 ml of liquid marshmallow extract 3 times per day.
9. It may act as an antioxidant

Marshmallow root has antioxidant properties that may help protect the
body from damage caused by free radicals.
Research from 2011 found marshmallow root extract to be comparable to

standard antioxidants. Although it demonstrated strong total antioxidant
activity, further research is needed to elaborate on these findings.
10. It may support heart health

Scientists are investigating the potential of marshmallow flower extract in
treating various heart conditions.
A 2011 animal study examined the effects of liquid marshmallow flower

extract in treating lipemia, platelet aggregation, and inflammation. These
conditions are sometimes linked to cardiovascular disease. Researchers
found that taking the flower extract for one month had a positive effect on
HDL cholesterol levels, promoting heart health. More research is needed
to expand on these findings.
Possible side effects and risks

Marshmallow root is generally well tolerated. In some cases, it can cause
upset stomach and dizziness. Starting with a low dose and gradually
working your way up to a full dose can help reduce your risk of side
effects.
Taking marshmallow root with an 8-ounce glass of water can also help
reduce your risk of side effects.
You should only take marshmallow root for four weeks at a time. Be sure
to take a one-week break before resuming use.
When applied topically, marshmallow root has the potential to cause skin
irritation. You should always do a patch test before moving forward with a
full application.
Talk to your doctor if you’re taking other medications before starting

marshmallow root, as it’s been found to interact with lithium and diabetes
drugs. It can also coat the stomach and interfere with absorption of other
medications.
Avoid use if you:
are pregnant or breastfeeding
have diabetes
have a scheduled surgery within the next two weeks
The bottom line

Although marshmallow root is generally considered safe to use, you
should still talk with your doctor before taking. The herb isn’t meant to
replace any doctor-approved treatment plan.
With your doctor’s approval, add an oral or topical dose into your routine.
You can reduce your risk for side effects by starting with a small amount
and increasing the dosage over time.
If you begin experiencing any unusual side effects, discontinue use and
see your doctor.
Last medically reviewed on September 21, 2017
How we reviewed this article:

SOURCES
Share this article
READ THIS NEXT
5 Surprising Natural Pain Relievers

To avoid the side effects and possible toxicity of medications, you might
turn to natural painkillers instead. Check out these five surprising options.

Marshmallow Root - Benefits, Side Effects, and More

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Marshmallow Root - Benefits, Side Effects, and More

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Marshmallow Root - Benefits, Side Effects, and More

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Everything You Need to Know About

Cough and cold Irritation Wound healing Skin Pain relief

How we vet brands and products

What is marshmallow root?

1. It may help treat coughs and colds

Within 12 days, all 62 participants experienced an 86 to 90 percent

Marshmallow root appears to act as an enzyme to loosen mucous and

How to use: Take 10 milliliters (mL) of marshmallow root cough syrup

2. It may help relieve skin irritation

A review from 2013 found that using an ointment containing 20 percent

More research is needed to confirm and elaborate upon these findings.

3. It may help with wound healing

How to use: Apply a cream or ointment containing marshmallow root

4. It may promote overall skin health

How to use: Apply a cream, ointment, or oil containing marshmallow root

5. It may act as a pain reliever

6. It may work as a diuretic

Research from 2011 found that marshmallow flower extract demonstrated

8. It may help repair gut lining

An in vitro study from 2010 found that aqueous extracts and

Further research is needed to expand upon these findings.

9. It may act as an antioxidant

Research from 2011 found marshmallow root extract to be comparable to

10. It may support heart health

A 2011 animal study examined the effects of liquid marshmallow flower

Possible side effects and risks

Talk to your doctor if you’re taking other medications before starting

are pregnant or breastfeeding

have a scheduled surgery within the next two weeks

The bottom line

Last medically reviewed on September 21, 2017

How we reviewed this article:

Share this article

READ THIS NEXT

5 Surprising Natural Pain Relievers

You might also like