Marshmallow (Unknown)
About
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is an herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine, known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Botanical name: Althaea officinalis. Also known as: Marshmallow Root, Guimauve, Khatmi, Sweet Weed.
Properties
Mucilage forms a soothing gel that coats and protects tissues., Anti-inflammatory effects due to flavonoids and phenolic acids.
Dosage
1-2 teaspoons of powder twice daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Sweet
- Virya: ["Cooling"]
- Vipaka: ["Sweet"]
Benefits
- Soothing
- Anti-inflammatory
- Demulcent
Traditional uses
- Coughs
- Colds
- Skin Irritation
- Digestive Issues
- Urinary Tract Infections
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Powder (Churna): Dried and powdered roots are consumed directly or mixed with warm water, milk, or ghee.
- Decoction (Kwath): Roots are boiled in water until the volume reduces by half. The liquid is strained and consumed.
- Tonic (Avaleha): Prepared with root extract, sugar, and other ingredients, forming a jam-like consistency.
Contraindications
- Individuals with known allergies to asparagus or related plants.
- May not be suitable for individuals with excessive kapha accumulation.
Side effects
- Generally well-tolerated. In rare cases, mild allergic reactions may occur.
Interactions
- May potentially interact with diuretics, potentially increasing their effect. Caution is advised when used concurrently with medications that affect blood sugar levels.
Active compounds
- Mucilage
- Flavonoids
- Phenolic acids
Clinical evidence
Limited clinical studies suggest that marshmallow root may help relieve dry cough, skin irritation, and gastrointestinal issues. A review in 2013 found that an ointment containing 20% marshmallow root extract reduced skin irritation. Clinical trials have explored marshmallow root to treat coughs in children and babies.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Soothing
- Anti-inflammatory
- Demulcent
Classical clinical indications
- Coughs
- Colds
- Skin Irritation
- Digestive Issues
- Urinary Tract Infections
Frequently asked questions
What is Marshmallow?
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is an herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine, known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
What are the benefits of Marshmallow?
Soothing. Anti-inflammatory. Demulcent
How is Marshmallow used in Ayurveda?
Powder (Churna): Dried and powdered roots are consumed directly or mixed with warm water, milk, or ghee.
Published by herbs.directory