Marshmallow is a plant that’s used to make an herbal treatment that’s been utilized for centuries. The nutritious sticky extract from its roots has powerful active ingredients that help break up mucus, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria naturally. These roots contain flavonoid antioxidants, pectin (a type of fiber), amino acids like asparagine, and other compounds like coumarin, phenolic acids, tannins, and quercetin (antiviral and antibacterial substances).

Here are some of the health benefits that we can obtain from it.

Helps Treat Cough And Cold

Marshmallow root protects the sensitive mucus membranes of our respiratory tract and digestive tract. It has high mucilaginous content that is useful for treating coughs and colds. Acting as an enzyme, the root can help loosen mucus and inhibit the spread of bacteria thus relieving cough due to cold, bronchitis, or respiratory tract diseases.

Boosts Heart Health

Marshmallow root has anti-inflammatory properties that can help improve our heart health and lower our risk of heart disease. One study revealed that this root had elevated levels of good cholesterols.

Reduces Digestive Problems

Marshmallow root coats the inside of the stomach and prevents acid from causing discomfort and “burning.” It has been found to be useful in lowering or preventing heartburn, stomach ulcer symptoms, diarrhea, and constipation.

Marshmallow root tea helps soothe the stomach. We can mix it with other digestive aids, such as peppermint essential oil or steeped/raw ginger root.

Helps Prevent Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

Marshmallow root tea may act as a diuretic thereby helping to flush toxins out of the body. Researchers of a study also found that it may also calm irritation within the urinary tract.

Helps Calm Sensitive Skin

Marshmallow root extract can take the sting out of a bad sunburn. An ointment that contains 20% marshmallow root extract may reduce skin irritation, according to a study.

The root can also be used topically to treat wounds, burns, insect bites, dry or chapped skin, and even peeling skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties are also helpful in treating eczema while its polysaccharides moisturize the skin and add a protective layer to ultra-sensitive skin.

Helps Fight Bacterial Infections

Taking marshmallow root during the first signs of tonsillitis, bronchitis, a urinary tract or respiratory infection may help us deal with the conditions. It helps speed up the healing process and naturally kills bacteria that can cause various ailments.

Boosts Hair Growth

The mucilage in marshmallow root binds with hair proteins to make the strands appear thicker. Aside from this, it may also be used as a hair conditioner.

How To Make A Marshmallow Root Tea

One of the best ways of enjoying the multiple benefits of marshmallow root is by making a soothing tea.

For this, we need to fill one-fourth of a jar with marshmallow root. Peppermint leaves may also be added for additional taste and benefits. Fill the jar with lukewarm water and cover it with a lid. Allow it to sit for about 6 hours or even overnight. Strain the roots and get a thick liquid. That’s our marshmallow tea.