Marshmallow

Althaea is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants native to Europe, North Africa and western Asia. It includes Althaea officinalis, also known as the marshmallow plant, whence the fluffy confection got its name.

Buy Marshmallow

Scientific Name:  Althaea officinalis
Parts Used:  Flowers, leaves and root

Cautions:

• None reported
• Consult a physician if diabetic.

Healing Properties

• Demulcent, vulnerary, cooling, antimicrobial
• Soothes mucous membranes, good for sore throats, coughs, bronchitis, external wounds and skin problems
• Helpful for inflammation in the digestive tract, kidneys (including kidney stones) and bladder
• Used on ulcers, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, urethritis, cystitis, diarrhea, gastritis, heartburn

How to Use: 
Herbs are wonderfully versatile and may be used in multiple ways (see list below).  However, some methods are better suited to certain herbs than others. Check the HEALING section to see which preparations are recommended for specific uses and conditions.

• Add fresh or dried herb to food and beverages. 
  
• Can be taken in store-bought capsule or extract form.
• Essential Oils: Apply externally
• How to Dry Herbs
• How to Make Herbal Teas/Infusions/Decoctions
• How to Make Herbal Vinegars
• How to Make Herbal Syrups
• How to Make Herbal Tinctures & Glycerites
• How to Make Herbal Infused Oils
• How to Make Herbal Ointments & Creams
• How to Make Herbal Poultices & Compresses
• How to Make Herbal Electuaries & Oxymels
• How to Make Herbal Lozenges, Gummies, Capsules
  
• How to Make Herbal Baths, Steams & Hair Rinses

Grow/Harvest Yourself: 

• Buy Marshmallow Seeds
• Leaves/Flowers: harvest from mid-June through fall
• Roots: harvest in the fall
• Hardy in all zones
• Soil pH: neutral
• Moist to wet, light soil
• Full sun