Marshmallow

Althaea officinalis L.

Marshmallow is a perennial plant with velvety-hairy leaves and pale pink flowers. It thrives in moist and partially saline habitats.

The roots and leaves are particularly rich in mucilage. Preparations made from marshmallow root are traditionally used to treat irritated mucous membranes in the mouth and throat, as well as the associated dry, irritating cough.

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German name: True Marshmallow

Botanical name: Althaea officinalis L.

Family: Malvaceae

Plant type: Perennial herbaceous plant

Height: About 60 to 150 centimeters

Flowering period: Usually July through September

Parts of the plant used: Roots and Leaves

Flavor: Mild and slightly slimy

The marshmallow plant forms sturdy, upright stems. The leaves, stems, and calyxes are covered with fine, soft hairs, giving them a gray-green to silvery appearance.

The leaves are ovate to slightly lobed. Pale pink to almost white flowers with five petals appear in the upper leaf axils.

Underground, the plant develops a strong, branched root. It is particularly rich in mucilage and is harvested in the fall or spring.

Related health topics:

  • Cough & Cold
  • Dry cough
  • Sore throat