Contents
Althaea officinalis L.
What is marshmallow and what is it used for?
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a plant from the Malvaceae family, which grows widely in the Mediterranean region.
Marshmallow like mallows has many applications because all they share their wealth in mucilage. It is used in herbal medicine for its demulcent properties, which authorize it to treat skin conditions (lesions, eczema, eye dryness, insect bites, etc.).
Mucilage also has applications for respiratory symptoms (cough, hoarseness, loss of voice, sore throat, etc.), anti-inflammatory and digestive demulcent (gastritis, ulcers), and to remedy constipation.
* More information on the medicinal properties of marshmallow.
What are marshmallow contraindications?
Photo of marshmallow leaves and flowers
- Pregnancy and lactation: the root of the plant is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation because it contains betaine, an alkaloid with abortifacient properties. There are no studies on the safety of marshmallow leaves, so it is recommended not to take marshmallow in these cases.* More information: Plants and pregnancy.
- Diabetes: for its richness in mucilage fiber, marshmallow may affect the levels of blood sugar if taken in large quantities. People with diabetes should pay attention to their patterns of medication and blood sugar levels to avoid hypoglycemia.
- Taking oral medications: the high fiber content of marshmallow could reduce or change the effect of some medicines if taken in large quantities.
More information on marshmallow .
This article was endorsed by Vicente Martínez Centelles - Founder of the web and director. Teacher of natural sciences, expert in plants, natural remedies and botanical photography.
