Marshmallow Root

Description

Botanical Name: Althaea officinalis

About This Herb: Our Marshmallow root is cut and sifted, carefully dried at low temperatures to preserve its high mucilage content. This gentle herb has been valued since ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman times. The name comes from the Greek “altho,” meaning “to heal,” and this plant is the original source of the marshmallow confection!

Traditional Uses: Marshmallow is a classic demulcent herb – rich in mucilage that forms a soothing film when mixed with water. Traditionally used to support respiratory health by soothing coughs and irritated throats, and digestive health by calming the digestive tract. It’s also used externally in poultices for skin inflammation.

How to Prepare: As a cold infusion, steep in cool water for 4-8 hours (refrigerated) to extract the maximum mucilage. The resulting slightly thick, mild liquid can be drunk throughout the day. As a warm tea, steep in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Can be combined with licorice and slippery elm for respiratory support.

Safety & Considerations: Generally recognized as safe. May slow the absorption of other medications; take at least one hour apart from other herbs or medications. Not for use during pregnancy without professional guidance. Consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if managing a health condition.

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RECIPES

Soothing Marshmallow Cold Infusion

The best way to extract the thick, soothing mucilage from the root without bitterness.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Steep time: 4–8 hours

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp Marshmallow Root

• 1 cup Cool filtered water

• Optional: A slice of fresh ginger or a teaspoon of honey.

Instructions:

1. Combine: Place the marshmallow root into a glass jar or tea press.

2. Pour: Fill the jar with cool water.

3. Steep: Cover and place in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight is best). The water will become slightly thick and slippery—this is exactly what you want!

4. Strain: Pour the liquid through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into your favorite mug.

5. Enjoy: Drink cool, or warm it gently on the stove (do not boil, as high heat can break down the beneficial mucilage).

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Marshmallow Root Infused “Farm Stand” Honey

A thick, soothing syrup perfect for a spoonful of wellness or drizzling over warm biscuits.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Infusion time: 2–4 weeks (patience is the secret ingredient!)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Marshmallow Root (cut and sifted)

• 1 cup Raw Local Honey (check back with us for availability)

• Clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid

Instructions:

1. Fill: Place the dried marshmallow root into your clean glass jar until it is about half full.

2. Cover: Pour the raw honey over the roots slowly. Use a chopstick or spoon to stir and pop any air bubbles, ensuring the roots are completely submerged.

3. Infuse: Wipe the rim, seal the jar, and place it in a sunny windowsill for 2–4 weeks. Turn the jar upside down every few days to keep the roots coated.

4. Strain (Optional): You can strain the roots out using a warm sieve, or leave them in for a more rustic “farm stand” feel.

5. Use: Take by the spoonful to soothe a dry throat, or add to a cup of warm (not boiling) tea.

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Marshmallow Root Soothing Poultice

A traditional farm remedy for calming irritated skin, minor “gardeners’ scrapes,” or dry patches.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Application: 20–30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2-3 tbsp Marshmallow Root (cut and sifted)

• Small amount of hot (not boiling) water

• Clean cloth or gauze

Instructions:

1. Grind: If you have a mortar and pestle, give the roots a quick grind to break them down further (though the cut and sifted pieces work well too!).

2. Moisten: Add hot water one teaspoon at a time to the root until it forms a thick, sticky paste. The “slippery” mucilage will activate quickly.

3. Apply: Spread the herbal paste directly onto a piece of clean gauze or cloth.

4. Place: Apply the cloth (herb-side down) to the affected skin area.

5. Rest: Secure with a bandage if needed and let it sit for 20 minutes to allow the cooling properties to work.