Medicinal plant

Marshmallow

Althaea officinalis

A soothing mucilage for a dry, irritated throat. Also called Marsh Mallow.

A demulcent — its mucilage forms a soothing coat over irritated tissues, traditionally used for a dry, irritated throat and digestive mucosa.

Properties

Demulcent — Coats, moistens, and soothes irritated internal tissues

Emollient — Softens, moisturizes, and soothes the skin

Pectoral — Soothes and supports the lungs, chest, and throat

Energetics
Cooling Moistening Relaxing
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis), historical botanical illustration

Growing and using it

Life cycle

Herbaceous perennial.

What to buy

Straight-species marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) seed or plant.

Best way to start

Seed or nursery plant.

Seed starting

Cold stratify or fall sow; start indoors after stratification or direct sow outdoors.