Marshmallow root, not to be confused with the white fluffy sugary squares that float on top of your hot cocoa, has been used as a supreme healing medicine by ancient cultures like the Greeks and Romans.
Marshmallow’s latin name, Althea officinalis, means to “heal.”
The root of the plant, as well as the leaves and flower, are considered a moistening mucilage that restores lubrication to a hot and dry body.
This makes marshmallow root a major remedy for irritable coughs as it soothes the mucus passageways, and reduces inflammation and dryness.[1]
“Studies have shown that marshmallow root preparations can reduce the duration and severity of coughs.”[2]
Living proof, a simple marshmallow root infusion helped resolve my covid-19 cough!
Not only is marshmallow used for dry coughs, this healing plant has been used for a wide variety of conditions including: lung infections, ulcers, stomach problems, bladder infections, sore throat, and gastrointestinal irritations.
It’s an excellent herb to keep in your home apothecary.
Below is a Moistening Marshmallow Root Infusion to soothe your irritated mucus membranes and heal what’s ailing you.
Enjoy!
- ½ cup marshmallow root, cut and sifted
- 4 cups room temperature water
- Place marshmallow root into a glass mason jar or other glass container.
- Fill with room temperature water.
- Steep 4 hours or overnight.
- Drink 1 cup per day, or as needed.
[1] The Practice of Traditional Western Herbalism, by Matthew Wood, North Atlantic Books, 2004, pgs. 182-185
[2] 21st Century Herbal, by Michael J. Balick, Phd, Rodale Press, 2014, pg. 95
Andrea Beaman is an internationally renowned Holistic Health Coach, Natural Foods Chef, Speaker, Herbalist and best-selling author. Named one of the top 100 Most Influential Health and Fitness Experts, she is also a recipient of the Natural Gourmet Institute’s Award for Excellence in Health-Supportive Education and a Health Leadership award from The Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Since 1999, Andrea has been teaching people how to harness the body’s own preventative and healing powers using food, herbal remedies and alternative medicine.
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