Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)

Alternate names

• Althea

Native to

• Southern Europe
• Western Europe
• Western Asia
• Northeastern region of North America

Medicinal parts used

• Leaves
• Roots

Uses

• No clinical trials available, so recommendations are based on traditional use and laboratory research
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Crohn’s disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Ulcerative colitis
• Wound healing
• Skin inflammation
• Cough
• Stomach ulcers
• Indigestion

How it works

• Unknown, possible anti-inflammatory agents when used topically

Side effects and warnings

• Has no reported side effects
• Appears safe for use during pregnancy and lactation
• May interact with other medications—take several hours before or after taking other herbs or medications

Dosage

• 5%-10 % drug in ointment applied topically
• Leaf infusion: 2–5 teaspoons in 5 ounces boiled water, two or three times per day

Reference and recommended reading

University of Maryland Medical Center. Marshmallow.
Available at: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/marshmallow-000265.htm.
Accessed March 31, 2011.

Review Date 5/11
G-1679