Althaea Officinalis
Marshmallow Root | Althaea Officinalis | Organic Marshmallow Root | Althaea Root
Origin: Bulgaria
Botanical Name: Althaea Officinalis
Other Names: Althaea Root, Mallards, Mortification root, Wymote, Schloss tea, Meshmellish, Mallow, White Mallow, Common Marshmallow, Malvavisco, Hatmi
Althaea officinalis, the marsh mallow or marshmallow, is a species of flowering plant indigenous to Europe, Western Asia and North Africa, which is used in herbalism and as an ornamental plant. This herbaceous perennial grows to 180 cm tall and puts out only a few lateral branches. The whole plant is softly stellate-hairy, especially the leaves, which are broadly triangular to oval, often with 3-5 shallow lobes, irregularly toothed, with cordate to cuneate bases. The roots are perennial, thick, long and tapering, very tough and pliant, whitish yellow outside, white and fibrous within. Marshmallow root tea has a mild, slightly sweet taste.
Usage: Boil 1 cup water. add the 1 tablespoon dried marshmallow root to the water. Reduce the heat to low and let the root simmer in the water for about 5-10 minutes. Strain.
Traditional Use
Marshmallow root, the plant that gave its name to the sweet, is one of the most soothing herbs of European tradition, rich in natural mucilage. It is traditionally used:
- To soothe the throat and calm a dry, tickly throat in the cold season
- To support the respiratory system
- To coat and soothe the stomach and support digestive comfort
- To soothe the urinary tract
- As a cold-water soak, traditionally sweetened with honey
Harvest & Character
Peeled, cut, creamy-white root pieces with a mild, slightly sweet taste. Best prepared as a cold soak for 1 hour to release its silky mucilage.
Please note: Take 1–2 hours apart from medication, as it may slow its absorption.
Disclaimer: These statements and products have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. If you have a health concern or condition, consult you doctor. Always consult a medical doctor before modifying your diet or using any new product.
