Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a flowering plant native to Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. It has been used in herbalism for centuries, and is the eponym of the fluffy white confection we know and love today. The root of this plant contains a very high concentration of mucilage — a thick, glue-like substance produced in various amounts by all plants — which can be used to soothe irritated mucous membranes like those in the mouth, throat and nose.
Soothing and Delicious Marshmallow Root Tea
We all know the telltale signs of an oncoming cold or flu: a tickle in the back of the throat that gradually progresses into a raw, irritated throat and a deep, hacking cough. When your throat is sore, it can be painful to swallow, cough and even talk.
Soothe your sore throat with get soothed® – No. 8 Herb Tea for Scratchy Throats, which contains a potent blend of organic rooibos, marshmallow root, licorice root, ginger, sage and lemon myrtle.* These flavorful herbal ingredients are a joy and comfort to sip when you are feeling under the weather.
Breathe in the fragrant steam wafting from your mug, and feel the warm, soothing liquid slip over the back of your throat as you swallow. Stir a spoonful of honey into your cuppa for additional sore throat relief.*
Wellness Benefits of Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root has a very long history of medicinal use, stretching back hundreds — if not thousands — of years. The roots and stems of the marshmallow plant secrete high volumes of mucilage: an edible, sticky substance that may relieve irritation of mucous membranes by forming a protective film.*
Some commercially available lozenges and cough syrups contain marshmallow root, to help relieve sore throats caused by dry, hacking coughs.* Marshmallow root teas and capsules may also be used to relieve mouth and throat irritation.* Additionally, marshmallow root may stimulate cells that support tissue regeneration.*
Marshmallow Root Origins and History
As the name implies, the marshmallow plant grows along the banks of marshes, swamps, riverbanks and other moist, sandy areas. Marshmallow is native to Europe, Northern Africa and Western Asia, where its roots and stems have long been used as a folk remedy for coughs, sore throats and digestive ailments.*
The medicinal properties of marshmallow are reflected in the name of the genus: Althaea, which comes from the Greek word althainein, meaning “to heal.” The Roman lyric poet Horrace described “olives, endives, and smooth mallow” as the core of his healthful diet.
Marshmallow root also has a long history of culinary use. The Ancient Egyptians were the first to enjoy the gooey confection known as the marshmallow, perhaps as early as 2000 BC. The original marshmallows were created by squeezing sap from the marshmallow root, and mixing it with nuts and honey. The French popularized the modern version of the marshmallow during the mid-1800s, by hand-whipping marshmallow root sap with sweeteners and rose water.
Marshmallow root sap is no longer used in today’s marshmallow candies, having been replaced by gelatin. The best way to experience marshmallow root is by sipping a hot cup of soothing, delicious marshmallow root tea.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
