Marshmallow - Research
Currently, there are no internal or external clinical studies available on the use of Althaea officinalis.
The German Commission E approved marshmallow leaf and root for irritation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa and associated dry cough.9 The root is also approved for mild inflammation of the gastric mucosa (stomach lining). The German Standard License for marshmallow leaf and root tea indicates its use to alleviate irritation of the mucous membrane of the mouth and throat, and to ease irritation of the throat in bronchial inflammation.3
The British Herbal Compendium indicates marshmallow root internally for soothing the stomach and intestinal tract.5 Topically, marshmallow is indicated as a mouthwash or gargle for soothing the mouth and throat.5
In the United States, marshmallow is used as a component of dietary supplement products and demulcent preparations.8
References:
3 Wichtl M, ed., Brinckmann JA, Lindenmaier MP, trans. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals. Stuttgart: Medpharm Scientific Publishers; 1994.
5 Bradley PR, ed. British Herbal Compendium, Vol. 1. British Herbal Medicine Association: Bournemouth, UK; 1992.
8 Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckmann J, editors. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Austin, TX: American Botanical Council; Newton, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications; 2000.
9 Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, Gruenwald J, Hall T, Riggins CW, Rister RS, editors. Klein S, Rister RS, translators. The Complete German Commission E Monographs Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Austin, TX: American Botanical Council; Boston: Integrative Medicine Communication; 1998.
