Herbs & Supplements

Mallards Scientific Name: Marshmallow Other Names: Althaea officinalis, Althea, Sweet Weed, Wymote Who is this for? Uses Marshmallow root and--to a lesser extent--marshmallow leaf both contain significant percentages of mucilage, a natural gummy substance that does not dissolve in water. Like other mucilage-containing substances, marshmallow swells up and becomes slick when it is exposed to fluids. The resulting slippery material coats the linings of the mouth, throat, and stomach to relieve irritation associated with respiratory or stomach conditions. It also contains substances that may help to control coughing. Additionally, marshmallow may also have mild anti-infective and immune-boosting properties, but further study is needed to confirm these possible effects. Topically, marshmallow is used to soothe and soften irritated skin. A commercial ointment that contains up to 10% of powdered marshmallow leaf or root may be applied to chapped skin or insect bites. When should I be careful taking it? >>

Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.

In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.

This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.