Marshmallow root (Althaea Officinalis) is a perennial herb commonly found in Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. Over the centuries, people have used it as a herbal remedy for various illnesses. The leaves or roots are also used to form a protective layer on the skin, a lining on the digestive tract.

Discover how marshmallow root can improve your well-being by offering impressive benefits for respiratory, digestive, and skin health. Are you interested to know more about the health benefits of marshmallow roots? Keep reading this article to get a wholesome idea.

Marshmallow roots have been a common folk remedy over the years to treat issues like respiratory problems, digestive issues, and skin conditions. Its healing power comes from its mucilage content. You can consume it in multiple forms, including tea, tinctures, capsules, and cough syrups. Here are some of the most common benefits of marshmallow roots:

1. Treats Cough and Cold

Marshmallow roots have a high mucilaginous content, making them beneficial for treating coughs and colds. In addition, these roots are often used as an enzyme to loosen mucous and inhibit bacteria. For instance, cough relief lozenges often contain marshmallow root extract to relieve dry cough.

A study conducted in 2005 observed that a cough syrup containing marshmallow root could effectively treat coughs caused due to cold, bronchitis, or respiratory tract diseases. In addition, the study found that all the participants experienced about 86%-90% improvement in their cough and cold symptoms.

2. Relieves Skin Irritation

There are some anti-inflammatory effects in marshmallow roots, which can effectively treat skin irritation occurring because of eczema, furunculosis, and dermatitis. In addition, most skin ointments are likely to contain extracts from marshmallow roots, offering quick relief from pain and discomfort.

3. Promotes Skin Health

Your skin is likely to face damage if it is regularly exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Marshmallow roots can effectively improve the appearance of the skin that has faced such damage. According to research conducted in 2016, most creams and ointments for UV skincare contain marshmallow root extracts.

Apart from that, this root is also effective in treating dry or chapped skin. So even if you are facing issues of peeling skin, you can get great help from using marshmallow root extracts.

4. Acts as a Pain Reliever

While considering the benefits of the marshmallow plant, people think its roots can act as a pain reliever. The components of marshmallow roots make it an excellent choice to soothe the pain and discomfort from a sore throat or abrasion. A 2014 study observed that these roots could be analgesic to relieve pain.

Marshmallow roots are known for promoting the health of mucus membranes. These outline the hollow organs, which in turn help to reduce pain and inflammation in your body.

5. Heals Wounds

Marshmallow roots contain antibacterial activity, increasing their ability to treat and heal wounds. In addition, these inflammatory capabilities can soothe the skin's nerve-sense system. This makes it effective while treating wounds like burns, insect bites and bruises.

A study conducted in 2015 on animals suggests that marshmallow roots come with the ability to treat gram-positive bacteria. This bacteria is usually responsible for causing more than 50% of infections, which shows the power of the extract of marshmallow roots. In addition, it is more effective than antibiotic controls when healing rat wounds.

6. Helps to Aid Digestion

Marshmallow roots are effective for relieving multiple issues with digestion, thereby relieving the gut from pain and discomfort. These issues can be related to constipation, intestinal acid, heartburn, diarrhoea, etc. In addition, the mucilage in these roots forms a layer on the inner lining of the stomach and oesophagus to protect it.

Moreover, the flavonoids and mucilage in these roots help reduce the chances of stomach ulcers. This is evident from a study conducted in 2011, which found that marshmallow flower extract can treat gastric ulcers in rats. However, more research is necessary to understand its effect on human beings.

7. Promotes Hair Health

As discussed already, marshmallow roots have a rich content of mucilage. It helps to strengthen your hair. The strands of hair become thicker by binding with the hair proteins. This is why marshmallow root extract is used in various hair conditions and hair-detangle products. However, more research is yet to develop in this area.

8. Acts as an Antioxidant

Marshmallow roots contain antioxidant properties, another health benefit you can get from these. It can protect your body from the damage that free radicals can cause. Research in 2011 observed that one could compare marshmallow roots to standard antioxidants. However, the current level of research is not competent to conclude if these roots can act as potent antioxidants.

9. Works as a Diuretic

Marshmallow roots act as a diuretic, essential to flush out excess fluid from your body. Diuretics have significant health benefits since they help in cleansing the kidneys and the bladder, thereby improving their functions.

According to a study in 2016, the soothing effects of marshmallows can contribute to reducing internal irrigation and inflammation in the urinary tract. Moreover, its antibacterial components can help treat and heal urinary tract infections.

10. Supports Heart Health

Currently, clinical research is going on to analyse the role of marshmallow roots in supporting heart health. An animal study conducted in 2011 shows that its extracts can contribute to treating platelet aggregation, lipemia, and inflammation. Such conditions can sometimes be linked to cardiovascular disease. In addition, it found that taking the flower extracts for about a month can improve HDL cholesterol levels.

11. Prevents Tumour Growth

Herbal medicine experts believe that the antioxidant content in marshmallows can be essential in controlling and preventing tumour growth in your body. Marshmallow roots can prevent the growth of tumours, especially in your lungs. It can also play a part in minimising the tumour's progression risks.

Moreover, these roots contain high amounts of Vitamin C, which helps clear mucus in your body. It can also contribute to cell repair and regeneration.

12. Enhances Immune Function

Based on the current information on Marshmallow roots, it can be deduced that they boost the human body's immune system.

13. Eases Allergies

Remedial uses of marshmallow roots can be beneficial to cure symptoms linked to allergies. It has the characteristics of combating inflammation.

14. Aids in Weight Management

The roots of marshmallows may be helpful in an attempt to lose weight because they contain mucilage that can cause volume expansion and thus decrease appetite.

15. Improves Oral Health

Since the plant roots possess antibacterial activity, it is evident that one of the potential uses includes combating bacteria associated with the formation of dental and gingivitis.

16. Soothes Respiratory Issues

Marshmallow root has mucilage properties that coat the throat, reducing irritation and inflammation. It helps in relieving coughs, bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments.

17. Alleviates Heartburn

The soothing properties of marshmallow root can help reduce the burning sensation associated with heartburn. It forms a protective layer over the stomach lining, preventing acid damage.

18. Promotes Gut Health

Marshmallow root supports gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. It helps maintain a healthy balance of gut flora, improving digestion.

19. Balances Blood Sugar

Some studies suggest that marshmallow root may help regulate blood sugar levels. It slows down the absorption of sugar in the intestines, reducing blood sugar spikes.

20. Relieves Stomach Cramps

The antispasmodic properties of marshmallow root can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing stomach cramps and discomfort.

There can be various ways of using marshmallow roots. In the first place, drinking it in liquid form is standard. You can drink it as tea or tincture by adding 30-40 drops of the root extract to a glass of water.

On the other hand, there are capsules and tablets available in medicine shops that contain high amounts of marshmallow root extracts. These are usually equivalent to about 6g of powdered root daily in divided doses. However, you should consult a doctor to choose an ideal dosage. Additional uses of marshmallow roots are:

• Tea Infusion: Step 1-2 teaspoons of dried marshmallow root in a cup of hot water for 10-15 minutes. This method is ideal for soothing sore throats, coughs, and digestive issues.
• Homemade Syrups: Simmer marshmallow root in water, strain, and mix with honey to create a syrup. This syrup can be used as an herbal medication to manage coughs and sore throat.
• Herbal Blends: Add 1-2 dropperfuls of marshmallow root tincture to a glass of water or juice. It can extract food that can be used for various internal ailments like inflammation, digestive issues, and respiratory conditions.
• Face Mask: Mix powdered marshmallow root with water or yoghurt to create a face mask, apply to the skin, and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off. This mask helps moisturise, soothe, and calm irritated or sensitive skin.

Marshmallow root is valued for its medicinal properties and nutritional benefits. Below is the nutritional breakdown per 100 grams:

Now that you know the health benefits of marshmallow root, you should be aware of its possible side effects. This will help you to avoid excessive consumption of these roots. While there are no reports on severe side effects of these roots, here are some possible side effects you might experience:

Upset Stomach and Dizziness

In some cases, marshmallow roots can end up causing an upset stomach and dizziness. Moreover, there are chances that it can cause health and abdominal issues because of overconsumption. Therefore, it is better to start with a low dose and then gradually increase it to an adequate amount.

Low Blood Sugar Levels

There have been instances where overconsumption of marshmallow roots has caused low blood sugar levels. As a result, you can face symptoms like excessive sweating, dizziness, and fatigue.

Hormonal Effects

Marshmallow roots can affect T3 and TSH hormones dose-dependently, which helps to improve your metabolism. However, its excessive consumption can cause adverse reactions in these hormones, causing them to function differently.

Allergic Reactions

There are cases of people with allergies to marshmallow root that result in skin rash, itching, hives, and other similar symptoms. In case of the onset of any signs of an allergic reaction, the use of the product must be discontinued, and consultation with a doctor must be sought.

Drug Interactions

Marshmallow root can cause mild side effects, including a mild bleeding disorder, and has adverse interactions with lithium, diabetic medicines, and water pills. This can also change the uptake and efficiency of these drugs.

Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Some rare side effects have been reported with this herbal supplement, and they include stomach upset, bloating, gas, or diarrhoea. However, these side effects are infrequent and are only likely to occur in cases where very high doses are used without water.

It would help if you considered certain precautions while taking or using marshmallow roots. It will effectively avoid the chances of adverse reactions in your body. Here are the precautions you need to consider in this process.

• Try to take marshmallow roots in a liquid form. The best way to do so is by taking drops of its extract in an 8-ounce glass of water to avoid the chances of side effects.
• Taking marshmallow roots for about four weeks at a time is advisable. Then, take a one-week break before resuming it again. Try not to break this cycle to avoid adverse effects.
• Consider a patch test before using marshmallow roots topically. It can cause skin irritation if you directly apply it to your body. A patch test will help you avoid this possibility.
• Consult your doctor before consuming or using marshmallow roots, especially if you take lithium and diabetes drugs. Marshmallow roots can react with these drugs, causing side effects on your body.

There is no specific information regarding the reactions of marshmallow roots on certain people. However, here are some conditions where it is suggested to avoid consuming or taking these roots:

Haemophilia or Blood Clotting Issues

If you have haemophilia or similar issues, you should avoid these roots. This is mainly because they have the potential to slow down blood clotting. Consult a healthcare professional for alternative remedies.

Upcoming Surgery

Avoid marshmallow consumption if you expect surgery within two weeks. These can enhance the risks of bleeding during and after the surgical procedure. Discuss any herbal supplements with your surgeon beforehand.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

It is advisable to avoid these roots if you are pregnant or breastfeeding your child. This will help you prevent any strong reactions to your hormones. Always prioritise safety for both you and your baby.

Diabetes and Medication

If you have diabetes and are taking medication, then you should avoid consuming or taking marshmallow roots. However, even if you do, consider your doctor's opinions. Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels if you consume this herb.

Allergies to the Malvaceae Family

Consumers with known allergies to plants in the Malvaceae family should avoid using marshmallow roots. This can assist in preventing flare-ups associated with allergies. Check labels on products for potential allergens.

Hormonal Disorders

To sum up, for people having hormonal disorders, it is better to abstain from taking the marshmallow root since it can change hormonal balance and activity. Consult a healthcare provider for suitable alternatives.

Autoimmune Diseases

People diagnosed with autoimmune diseases should not consume such roots because they can interfere with the patient’s immune system. Work with your doctor to manage symptoms effectively.

Hopefully, now you have a wholesome view of the health benefits of marshmallow roots. As this article pointed out, these roots have multiple health benefits. However, it would help if you were careful, as there can be side effects based on the dosage. Therefore, try to consult a doctor before consuming or using it.