Marshmallow (althaea officinalis) has been used for over 2000 years! It is one of the most beneficial herbs known to the herbalist and should be highly encouraged on all whenua.
The Roman physician Pliny wrote that 'whosoever shall take a spoonful of the mallows shall that day be free of diseases'. It is mentioned in the Bible, and eaten in times of famine, although a dish of mallow was a considered a delicacy by the Romans.
It is incredibly soothing and healing to the gastrointestinal system, respiratory system and urinary system.
Any inflammation in those areas will benefit greatly from Marshmallow.
Marshmallow contains large amounts of mucilage and it is this substance that accounts for much of its soothing, anti-inflammatory effects.
Marshmallow shows to have immunomodulating properties, which can help the body fight off infections.
Marshmallow is helpful for gastritis, peptic ulcer, heartburn, indigestion, GERD, IBS, reflux, constipation, ulcerative colitis, dysentery, diarrhoea, Crohn’s disease and vaginal irritation. It can modify gut flora, and draws out toxins from the bowel, so is very helpful for gut healing.
For the respiratory system - asthma, acute and chronic bronchitis, phlegm and congestion, irritating coughs, croup, sore throat, sore mouth and gums.
Urinary tract system - cystitis, UTI symptoms, urethitis and gravel.
Also helpful for breast soreness, inflammation and swelling.
Marshmallow has shown to heal hernias also.
Use as an infusion to treat sore, inflamed eyes and styes. This will also help soothe and heal dandruff and itchy, flaky skin, so think of marshmallow for eczema and psoriasis also.
Topically, Marshmallow is healing for abscesses, ulcers, varicose veins, boils, burns, bruises and sprains.
A poultice of the roots can draw out infection from inflamed wounds, bites and stings, as well as soothing burns.
Marshmallow is connected to the moon and
the goddesses Althea, Aphrodite, and Venus, a feminine vibration and
linked to the element of water. It is said to offer protection from
negativity and during astral protection.
Parts used: root, leaf and flower.
Marshmallow likes to grow in rich, moist, marshy soil. Trim after flowering in summer to encourage new leaf growth.
For medicinal purposes, roots of 2-year-old plants should be dug up in
autumn, after the flowers and leaves have died back, then sliced and
dried.
Organically grown herb in a recycled or compostable pot.
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