Marshmallow root
Useful marshmallow
Althaea officinalis
althaea root
mallow root
mortification root
Schloss tea
sweet weed
Hock herb
Marshmallow root has long been used as a food, particularly during times of famine when it is more abundant than other vegetables. Medicinally, it has been approved by the German Commission E in supporting inflammation of the gastric mucosa, and for irritation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa. The root is traditionally used to support a healthy digestive system. Marshmallow root is non-toxic, but its mucilage can interfere with the absorption of other medicines. The asparagine in the root can cause a mild odor in the urine, but has no other physiological effect.
