Tell Me About The Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow root or leaves are a member of the mallow family that grows primarily in the wet soil of Western Europe, but can also be found in the Mediterranean, Russia and the Western United States. Used for thousands of years for medicianal purposes, marshmallow root has found a home within the homopathic cultural and is widley used as herb for many home remedies.

Marshmallow has a high mucilage count making the root extract an excellent choice when used for respiratory distress. Aiding the body in removing excess fluids, it helps sooth mucus membranes due to hacking dry coughs or chest colds. The root derives these soothing properties from mucilage which coats and soothes mucus membranes since the substance does not dissolve in water. Thes properties also make it popular as a source of relief from sore throat.

Also an excellent cleansing agent, Marshmallow root works to detoxify the body of impurities such as heavy metals having properties that cleanse the body by eliminating toxins.The root is also used in home remedies to boost the immune system and fight infections but these effects appear to be limited. Some practitioners also use Marshmallow for skin conditions such burns, muscle aches, sprains and inflammations of the skin. Dried leaves and fresh leaves have been used for these conditions, but the leaf is believed to be less powerful than the root itself.

Marshmallow is a natural source of many vitamins and minerals including B complex vitamins, calcium, sodium, iron, Vitamin A and zinc. The properties of Marshmallow are also used as filler in pills, acting as a gelling agent. Taken with a tea, marshmallow can help stimulate the immune system with some people using the extract up to five times daily in their tea.

Often times people only consider marshmallow when they have a cup of hot chocolate or roast marshmallows over an open fire. But marshmallow root has a long history of healing properties and is stil widley used throughout the world as safe alternative to traditional medicines.