Used for irritation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa and associated dry cough
Used for inflammation of the gastric mucosa, peptic and gastric ulcer and enteritis
Used for cystitis and urinary tract infections
Marshmallow is a herb with a long and distinguished history of use in the West as both a medicine and a food.
Classic British herbalist Mrs. M. Grieve provides an excellent summary of the therapeutic scope of this herb, asserting that, "The great demulcent and emollient properties of marshmallow make it useful in inflammation and irritation of the alimentary canal, and of the urinary and respiratory organs."
Commission E, Germany’s foremost herbal authority, has approved marshmallow root for the following uses: "a) Irritation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa and associated dry cough, b) Mild inflammation of the gastric mucosa."
As widely published herbal botanist James Duke, PhD points out, "Marshmallow has been used for thousands of years as a soothing herb for cold-related cough and sore throat and other respiratory conditions. Marshmallow roots contain a spongy material called mucilage that soothes inflamed mucous membranes, perhaps because of anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compounds that the plant is known to contain."
In his monograph on marshmallow, leading herbalist David Hoffmann expands on the herb’s gastrointestinal indications, explaining that, "Because of the abundance of mucilage it contains, marshmallow is an excellent demulcent that is indicated whenever such an action is needed. Marshmallow root has been used primarily in the digestive system… All inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract will benefit from the application of marshmallow root, including inflammations of the mouth, gastritis, peptic ulceration, and colitis."
Naturopath William A. Mitchell Jr., a pupil of prominent naturopathic physician John Bastyr, notes that, "Althaea is an excellent demulcent. The most famous use of this plant is as a demulcent for intestinal disorders such as colitis. Dr. Bastyr was fond of Althaea as a soothing remedy for enteric inflammations… I have used this medicine for peptic ulcers with good results… Althaea is also effective as a soothing ingredient in cough medicines. Its mucilaginous component soothes both the gastrointestinal and the genitourinary tracts. Dr. Bastyr taught us to use it to treat cystitis, ammonia urine, and dysuria."
Administration:
30-50 drops (1-1.7ml), three to four times daily, in a mouthful of water, on an empty stomach
Contraindications and Cautions:
May impede absorption of other drug medications if ingested simultaneously.
Consult a health care practitioner before use if you have peptic or gastric ulcer, enteritis, inflammation of the gastric mucosa, or urinary tract infection.
Ingredients:
Certified Organic
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) |
