Overview:
Marshmallow is found naturally in the marshes of Europe. The marshmallow plant has been used for hundreds of years for medicinal purposes because of its natural compounds such as amino acids, selenium and vitamins (Hughes).
Benefits:
Marshmallow is a soothing herb that is often used to treat gastrointestinal ailments as well as irritations in the bronchi and urinary tract tissues because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also help to alleviate dry coughs and sore throats. It is believed that the natural sugars in the marshmallow plant are responsible for these properties (Sefcik).
Marshmallow also acts an antioxidant due the present of alpha-tocopherol. Research is currently being conducted to see if the antioxidant properties of marshmallow have any anti-cancer effects.
A test tube study that was conducted in Italy showed that marshmallow has antibacterial properties against many anaerobic and facultative aerobic periodontal bacteria (About Marshmallow).
Side Effects:
Marshmallow has no known side effects. However, one study found that it may lower blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes. Marshmallow is safe for pregnant women and women who are breast feeding, but it is recommended that you talk to your health care professional before you take it.
Sources:
- About Marshmallow.” Zhion.com, 2008. Web. 19 Jul 2012.
http://www.zhion.com/herb/Marshmallow.html - Ehrlich, Steven. “Marshmallow.” . University of Maryland Medical Center, 03/04/2011. Web. 19 Jul 2012.
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/marshmallow-000265.htm - Hughes, Robyn. What are the benefits of marshmallow and the slippery elm herb?. Livestrong, 19/02/2011. Web. 19 Jul 2012.
http://www.livestrong.com/article/385904-what-are-the-benefits-of-marshmallow-root-the-slippery-elm-herb/ - Sefcik, Lisa. “What Is Marshmallow Root?.” . Livestrong, 09/08/2011. Web. 19 Jul 2012.
http://www.livestrong.com/article/124930-marshmallow-root/