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Marshmallow is a plant that is very well known in folk medicine and is used in homemade cough syrups. Marshmallow syrup is beneficial in combating infections of the upper respiratory tract, but it can also help in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or skin inflammations. Marshmallow also has some contraindications and not every person can benefit from the medicinal properties of this plant.
Marshmallow – characteristics
Marshmallow, from Latin Althaea officinalis L., is a plant belonging to the mallow group. It has a strong stem, corrugated leaves and pale pink flowers. Interestingly, marshmallow comes from the Mediterranean, although it is currently grown in Europe, Asia Minor and North America. This plant can grow to a height of 1,5 meters. It blooms in July and August and that’s when the flowers are picked. However, the most health properties of marshmallow owes to the roots, which contain the most mucus substances. You can find there among others pectins, betaines, mineral salts, starch, amino acids, flavonoids, organic acids and coumarins.
Medicinal properties of marshmallow
The most famous properties of marshmallow it relieves upper respiratory tract infections. It is administered as a cover in the case of pharyngitis, laryngitis, vocal cords inflammation, and as an auxiliary in the treatment of angina and infections with dry cough or bronchial secretions. The mucus contained in marshmallow has properties that coat the mucosa and soothe irritation. On the one hand, it protects the pharyngeal mucosa from drying out when coughing, and on the other hand, it facilitates the expectoration of secretions.
At Medonet Market you can buy Herbapol marshmallow syrup with vitamin C.
In addition, marshmallow shielding and soothing properties help to alleviate pain or irritation of the mucosa in the esophagus. Marshmallow It will also protect the digestive system in case of heartburn, gastritis or hyperacidity and in duodenal problems. In addition, it improves digestion and helps with constipation by improving intestinal peristalsis.
Try marshmallow supplements: Para Farm – liquid supplement, Para Farm capsules or Para Farm Max Plus – liquid supplement.
Marshmallow can be used on skin lesions, but externally, an infusion of dried herb is used, which, after cooling, can be used to make warm compresses for difficult-to-heal wounds, abscesses, ulcers, boils, and even burns. Marshmallow so it also has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and soothing properties.
Marshmallow – contraindications
However, not every person can use marshmallow. The most important contraindications it is pregnancy, the period of breastfeeding and hypersensitivity to the plant, which, admittedly, is very rare, but especially allergy sufferers should exercise caution. Marshmallow it should also not be administered to children under 6 years of age without prior consultation with a pediatrician.
Marshmallow internally it cannot be used for a long time eitherbecause the mucous substances contained in it, in addition to their soothing effect, have sticky properties, which make it difficult for the absorption of, for example, vitamins and minerals, which can lead to some deficiencies.
How to prepare an infusion of marshmallow?
Marshmallow may be ingredient of ready-made cough syrups or lozengesbut for skin problems or problems with the digestive system it will be more useful an infusion made of dried root. Susz can be bought in pharmacies, tea shops and herbal shops. One teaspoon of dried fruit and one cup of lukewarm water is enough. Such a stock must be left to soak for an hour, then boiled, drained and let it cool down. You can use it for drinking (no more than 3 cups a day) or as a compress on the skin.
Marshmallow root in the form of a tea is available at Medonet Market.
Medonet Market offers also Natjun tea “Spring stimulation” with marshmallow, calendula, ginger and other natural ingredients.