Marshamallow Althaea officinalis and uses.

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Therapeutics and Pharmacology:Marshmallow root

Marshmallow Root Extract INCI Name Althaea Officinalis Extract CAS 73049-65-7 EINECS ELINCS No 277-254-6 Mucilage,exopolysaccharid,althea Mortification Root Sweetweed mallards guimauve schloss tea wymote Malve Guimauve Malvavisce photo picture image Marshmallow is helpful in support of respiratory irritation, cuts, wounds, and gastric ulcers. It is also an immune booster. Marshmallow, a mild herb, has been used as a food as well as a medicine for more than 2,000 years. Dioscorides, Pliny the Elder, Horace, Virgil and Culpepper have all written about Marshmallow and its virtues. Inflammations whether internal or external were treated with Marshmallow. Almost all mucous membrane afflictions have, at one time or another, been treated with this plant.

 Anti-Inflammatories:Marshmallow (Althaea Officinalis) soothes inflamed tissues in the digestive system, it may also help with gastrointestinal upset, lung congestion, dry coughs, sore throat, colitis, and urinary tract infections.

 The root is indicated in all inflammations of the digestive tract including mouth ulcers, hiatus hernia, gastritis, peptic ulcer, enteritis and colitis. Althaea contains large amounts of mucilage, making it an excellent demulcent which coats the gastrointestinal mucosa, particularly in the mouth and pharynx, thus protecting them from local irritation, and it counters excess stomach acid. It is also mildly laxative. Externally, the root is indicated in varicose veins and ulcers as well as in abscesses and boils, and it is used in cosmetics for weather-damaged skin. The peeled root may be given to teething babies to chew on. In vivo experiments have shown the anti-inflammatory effect of an ointment containing 20% aqueous root extract against skin irritation. In vitro experiments have shown a cold macerate of the root to inhibit mucociliary transport, while extracts of the root stimulate phagocytosis and the release of oxygen radicals and leukotrienes from human neutrophils. Potential anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects have also been reported. Antimicrobial activity towards Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris and Staphylococcus aureus has been documented.

 Antitussive; Demulcent; Diuretic; Emollient; Laxative; Odontalgic.:Marsh mallow is a very useful household medicinal herb. Its soothing demulcent properties make it very effective in treating inflammations and irritations of the mucous membranes such as the alimentary canal, the urinary and the respiratory organs. The root counters excess stomach acid, peptic ulceration and gastritis. It is also applied externally to bruises, sprains, aching muscles, insect bites, skin inflammations, splinters etc. The whole plant, but especially the root, is antitussive, demulcent, diuretic, highly emollient, slightly laxative and odontalgic. An infusion of the leaves is used to treat cystitis and frequent urination. The leaves are harvested in August when the plant is just coming into flower and can be dried for later use. The root can be used in an ointment for treating boils and abscesses. The root is best harvested in the autumn, preferably from 2 year old plants, and is dried for later use.

 Anti-infective:Marshmallow may also have mild anti-infective and immune-boosting properties, but further study is needed to confirm these possible effects.

 Marshmallow Root is known for its demulcent properties due to its content of muco-polysaccharides, often referred to as mucilage. It has anti-tussive properties as well. Marshmallow, like most demulcents, are very soothing to inflamed mucus membrane linings of the digestive tract, especially for gastritis and ulcers.

 Bronchitis, respiratory catarrh and irritating coughs:The leaf is an effective treatment for bronchitis, respiratory catarrh and irritating coughs. Its demulcent action helps to relieve dry coughs, bronchial asthma and pleurisy and soothes sore throats. Taken as a warm infusion, the leaves help to relieve cystitis and urinary frequency.

 Clears damp heat in the lower burner:Cystitis, UTI,Enteritis, dysentery.

 Cough and sore throat:Marshmallow Root's high mucilage content makes it an appropriate supplement for the respiratory system and, thus, it aids the body in expelling excess fluid and mucus and will soothe the mucous membranes and a dry, hacking cough. It is an oldtime remedy for bladder infection, digestive upsets, fluid retention, intestinal disorders, kidney problems, sinusitis and sore throat.

 Connective tissue protection:inhibitory effect in hyaluronidase,reducing skin aging and diminishing inflammation.Marshmallow also has an inhibitory effect in hyaluronidase, which is an enzymatic action in which the hyaluronic acid and other muco-polysaccharides in the connective tissue are degraded.An inhibition and reduction in hyaluronidase leads to better moisture levels in the skin as well as boosting the dermal structure and improving wound healing processes, while at the same time reducing skin aging and diminishing inflammation.

 Chronic Constipation:Eases gastrointestinal irritation."Amazing results I have been suffering from constipation and bloating/ gas for a decade or more, due to pain meds and a sluggish colon (lazy bowel). I've had to take increasing amounts of laxatives with very little benefit. I tried 1 tsp in water a couple of evenings ago, and within 4 hrs, was able to easily empty at least 3 feet of stool from my colon ! I have since been taking the same dose morning and night with positive effect. My belly is flatter and I have very little gas now. I'm very excited about this simple solution to years of agony! I will keep you informed over the longer term, how my condition improves."

 Cystitis and hiatus hernia:The root is of value to treat cystitis and hiatus hernia.

 Demulcent and emollient properties:The great demulcent and emollient properties of Marsh Mallow make it useful in inflammation and irritation of the alimentary canal, and of the urinary and respiratory organs. The dry roots boiled in water give out half their weight of a gummy matter like starch. Decoctions of the plant, especially of the root, are very useful where the natural mucus has been abraded from the coats of the intestines, The decoction can be made by adding 5 pints of water to 1/4 lb. of dried root, boiling down to 3 pints and straining: it should not be made too thick and viscid. It is excellent in painful complaints of the urinary organs, exerting a relaxing effect upon the passages, as well as acting curatively. This decoction is also effective in curing bruises, sprains or any ache in the muscles or sinews. In haemorrhage from the urinary organs and in dysentery, it has been recommended to use the powdered root boiled in milk. The action of Marsh Mallow root upon the bowels is unaccompanied by any astringency.

 Detoxifying:Helps to remove the hardened phelgm in the intestinal tract as well as other parts of the body.A powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant for the whole body, especially the gastrointestinal tract.

 Digestive problems:Marshmellow root is an important herb for anyone with digestive problems. Marshmellow root is a demulcent which means it can sooth irritated or damaged tissues within the body. Torn ligaments, an irritated bowel lining, strained muscles - these can all benefit from incorporating marshmallow root into your regiman.

 Immune system:Marshmallow is also believed to have a limited ability to fight infection and boost the immune system.Marshmallow stimulates the production of white blood cells and enhances the immune system.marshmallow are mucilages which soothe irritated tissue such as mucous membranes,absorb irritants from the digestive tract. Marshmallow enhances white blood cells which feed on disease microbes.Marshmallow not only has good anti-inflammatory properties, but also seem to boost the immunity at cellular level.

 Inflammatory skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis):Marshmallow extracts have traditionally been used on the skin to treat inflammation. Several laboratory experiments, mostly in the 1960s, reported marshmallow to have anti-inflammatory activity. There was one human research study done in 1968. Safety, dosing, and effectiveness compared to other anti-inflammatory agents have not been examined.

 Inflammation and ulceration of the digestive tract:Marshmallow leaf is used internally to treat inflammation and ulceration of the digestive tract, oral and pharyngeal mucosa with associated dry cough. It relieves irritation of the mucus membranes of the mouth, throat and gastrointestinal tract and helps with respiratory complaints including bronchitis and asthma.

 Irritated skin:Topically, marshmallow is used to soothe and soften irritated skin. A commercial ointment that contains up to 10% of powdered marshmallow leaf or root may be applied to chapped skin or insect bites.

 Kidney Healing:Marshmallow used a lot in many formula healing to the kidneys, a very soothing herb, high in vitamin A.Supports the kidneys and bladder.

 Lactation Promoting:Insufficient breast milk

 Mucilage-containing substances:Marshmallow root and marshmallow leaf both contain significant percentages of mucilage, a natural gummy substance that does not dissolve in water. Like other mucilage-containing substances, marshmallow swells up and becomes slick when it is exposed to fluids. The resulting slippery material coats the linings of the mouth, throat, and stomach to relieve irritation and control coughing associated with respiratory or stomach conditions. For example, marshmallow has been used to treat sore throats and to alleviate heartburn.

 Mucosal tissue protection:The polysaccharides form a protective film over inflamed and irritated mucosal tissue.

 Nourishes Lung yin:Tuberculosis, pertussis, pneumonia, dry cough, night sweats, five heart heat, small rapid pulse.

 Nourishes Stomach yin and clears Stomach fire:Acid reflux, large appetite, mouth ulcers, stomatitis, gingivitis, night sweats, constipation.

 Pet urinary tract problems:Marshmellow root is an important herb for anyone with digestive problems. Marshmellow root is a demulcent which means it can sooth irritated or damaged tissues within the body. Torn ligaments, an irritated bowel lining, strained muscles - these can all benefit from incorporating marshmallow root into your regiman.Some friends use marshmallow root for my cat with urinary tract problems."I have the whole root and crush it to powder with a morter and pestal (I do suggest buying the powder to save time). I take a pinch and sprinkle this in his meal every morning and evening. He has been plagued mostly by urinary crystals which can cause an irritated bladder lining, so the marshmallow root may help this inflammation decrease and become less painful."

 Pill excipient:Althaea extract has been used as a pill excipient. Marshmallow has also been used as an aid to radiologic examination of the esophagus.

 Note: Not to be confused with mallow leaf and mallow flower. Not to be confused with confectionery marshmallows; although confectionery marshmallows were once made from the Althaea officinalis plant, they now contain mostly sugar.

 Respiratory system:Strengthens the mucous membranes as well as the respiratory system.Marshmallow's (some people spell it marshmellow) high mucilage content and demulcent and emollient properties make it a soothing supplement for an irritated respiratory system.

 Respiratory infections treatment:Marshmallow is an excellent choice for dry hacking coughs that accompany respiratory infections due to its soothing effects on the respiratory tract mucosa. It can also be helpful for the pain associated with mucous membrane inflammation such as that which accompanies sore throats. Its main traditional uses include coughs and sore throats.Marshmallow contains an abundance of mucilage to which its soothing effects may be ascribed. Mucilage-containing herbs also have excellent effects on the gastrointestinal mucosa as well because of this action.Mucilage polysaccharides form a protective layer on top of the mucous membranes, causing a soothing and protective effect.Interestingly, mucilage seems to inhibit mucociliary transport; this may be part of how mucilage can also inhibit coughs as well.Mucilage is also of benefit in respiratory infections because of its antimicrobial, spasmolytic, wound healing and other effects; all of this contributes towards the healing and recovery of the lungs.Marshmallow has little if any known toxicity and is therefore considered very safe.

 Skin problems:It is used externally for localized irritations, boils, abscesses, burns, sores, ulcers and minor injuries.It helps to minimize skin inflammatory processes and is therefore also useful for fighting any skin degeneration, as well as cellular oxidation.It has very beneficial effects on skin problems and diseases and helps in healing wounds, burns and irritation.

 Soothing effect:Useful whenever a soothing effect is needed, marshmallow protects and soothes the mucous membranes. The root counters excess stomach acid, peptic ulceration, and gastritis. Marshmallow is also mildly laxative and beneficial for many intestinal problems, including regional ileitis, colitis, diverticulitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. Taken as a warm infusion, the leaves treat cystitis and frequent urination. Marshmallow's demulcent qualities bring relief to dry coughs, bronchial asthma, bronchial congestion, and pleurisy. The flowers, crushed fresh or in a warm infusion, are applied to help soothe inflamed skin. The root is used in an ointment for boils and abscesses, and in a mouthwash for inflammation. The peeled root of marshmallow may be given as a chewstick to teething babies.

 Both the root and the leaf of the marshmallow plant contain a substance known as mucilate, a mucusy substance that does not dissolve in water. It is this substance that causes marshmallow to swell up and become slippery when wet. This attribute of the marshmallow plant gives it the ability to soothe irritation of the mouth, throat and stomach, as well as to relieve coughing.An emollient and soothing agent which has a relaxing effect on the body's internal passages. It is mainly used for inflammation and irritation of the alimentary canal, urinary and respiratory organs. It is available from herbalists as a fluid extract, tincture, concentrated decoction or syrup. The powdered root can be combined with Slippery Elm powder for use in poultices. For domestic use an infusion of the leaves is excellent for most purposes where a soothing agent is required. Use 1 oz (28 g) of the leaves to 1 pt (568 ml) of boiling water and take three or four times a day in doses of 2 fl Oz (56 rnl). The syrup is helpful in pericarditis.

 Stops bleeding:Kidney stones, blood in fluids.

 Transforms hot phlegm:Bronchitis with sticky yellow phlegm, pneumonia.

 Urinary tract infections:has been known to relieve indigestion, kidney problems, urinary tract infections, and even external skin wounds such as boils and abscesses. Marshmallow root and herb is a soothing, healing plant.

 Marshmallow Syrup:Boiled in wine or milk, Marsh Mallow will relieve diseases of the chest, constituting a popular remedy for coughs, bronchitis, whooping-cough, etc., generally in combination with other remedies. It is frequently given in the form of a syrup, which is best adapted to infants and children.

 Adhesive,Fibre,Oil,Teeth:The dried root is used as a toothbrush or is chewed by teething children. It has a mechanical affect on the gums whilst also helping to ease the pain. The root is also used as a cosmetic, helping to soften the skin. A fibre from the stem and roots is used in paper-making. The dried and powdered root has been used to bind the active ingredients when making pills for medicinal use. A glue can be made from the root]. The root is boiled in water until a thick syrup is left in the pan, this syrup is used as a glue. An oil from the seed is used in making paints and varnishes.

 Actions:Root: Demulcent, diuretic, emollient, vulnerary. Leaf: Demulcent, expectorant, diuretic, emollient, antilithic. Flowers: expectorant

 Mechanism of Theraputic Action :As stated above this plant is high in mucilage which has unfortunately not been the focus of much pharmacological research. With gastrointestinal disorders so common in the United States and the ability of this substance to provide soothing support there more focus should be directed to this plant. There have been some studies conducted on the effect of this plant in combination with others to support healthy respiratory function while challenged with a cough.

 Indications of Leaf :bronchitis, respiratory catarrh, cystitis, urethritis, urinary gravel or calculi; locally for abscesses, boils and ulcers. Specifically indicated in respiratory catarrh associated with digestive weakness.

 Indications of Root :Gastritis, gastric or peptic ulceration, ulcerative colitis, enteritis, inflammation of the mouth or pharynx, respiratory catarrh with irritating dry cough, cystitis; locally for varicose veins and thrombotic ulcers. Specifically indicated in gastric or duodenal ulcer.

 Additional Comments:The name Althaea is derived from the Greek altho, meaning to heal, and its medicinal qualities have been recognised since Ancient Egyptian times. Theophrastus reported that the root could be added to sweet wine to relieve coughs; Horace and Martial mentioned the laxative properties of the leaves and root; and Pliny wrote that 'whosoever shall take a spoonful of the Mallows shall that day be free from all diseases that may come to him'. Marshmallow is mentioned in the Bible and in Arabic and Chinese history as a valuable food during times of famine. In rural France, the young tops and leaves are eaten in salads for their kidney-stimulating effects. All members of the mallow family, such as the hollyhock and common mallow, have similar properties and can be used medicinally.

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last edit date:31th,May.2009.