The (actual) marshmallow herb benefits and uses are many, while any side effects are very few if any at all. The root of this beautiful flower, that was once the original marshmallow, has many healing properties. Maybe enough that you may want to happily consider giving it a tad bit of garden space (wink, wink).
If I say marshmallow it probably conjures up childhood memories of campfires and s’mores. Rightfully so. However the marshmallows we have today only received the name of the herbal healing plant our ancestors once knew.
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Marshmallow Plant Info
This tall beautiful perennial flower just so happens to fall in the same family as hollyhocks and okra. This helps to explain its mucilage nature, much like you find in an okra once cut open.
This beautiful flowering plant has a history that far surpasses campfires and cookouts. In fact, the history goes back to ancient peoples who were know to have used the prized root in many feasts. Later the Europeans took note of the marshmallow benefits and its mucilage properties to create the first edition of the modern day marshmallow treat, (which had an actual medicinal value, whereas the modern day version lack any actual marshmallow root).
Growing Marshmallow
Marshmallow is a wonderfully easy plant to grow, that like its cousin the hollyhock can grow in many growing conditions. Like its name suggests it is said to like moist marshy soil but can survive many drought-like conditions. It can grow well in full sun to partial shade. This hearty perennial puts on beautiful flowers but needs some room as they will grow to heights of 4 feet plus!
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DIY Herbal Baby Powder (With Marshmallow Root Powder)
Marshmallow Herb Benefits & Uses
Marshmallow herb benefits are many while side effects are nearly none. It is considered a safe herb for almost all. With a known history for healing everything digestive to calming teething pain in infants, you can be sure that marshmallow plant is considered a safe herb. However, if you have a question about your particular issue consult with a certified herbalist or ND.
Because of its mucilage properties, marshmallow has been popular for treating all sorts of inflammation issues, especially inflammation of the skin, digestive system and respiratory system. Other ailments that marshmallow has been used to treat
- stomach ulcers
- gastritis
- colitis
- diverticulitis
- IBS
- cystitis
- dry coughs
- bronchial asthma
- bronchial congestion
- skin irritation
- dry chapped skin
- bladder infection
- kidney infection
- teething or gum inflammation
More ways to use Marshmallow root
Yes of course the marshmallow herb has many benefits when it comes to medicinal value, but that is not where this pretty plant stops. There are many other ways to use marshmallow!
- Marshmallow root makes for a great natural DIY hair detangler.
- Into making your own beauty products? Think Marshmallow conditioner.
- The marshmallow root makes for one great Natural herbal baby powder.
- You may find the soothing properties found in marshmallow root are perfect for making a soothing and yet natural baby teething ointment.
- Chapped stick or lip balm for healing winter chapped lips.
- Sunburn relief either in bathwater or an ointment.
- Eczema relief cream
Really there are many things that could be made for body, wound, or child care.
It’s clear to see why the ancient people prized this beautiful plant. The marshmallow herb benefits are fitting for so many common ailments. With the ease of growing this beautiful flower along with its many and versatile healing properties, makes adding a little marshmallow to your garden as well as your herbal medicine cabinet an easy decision ♡♡♡
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Beth is a mother of 6 living on a handful of acres in an old farmhouse in central Kansas. Beth has a background in the military and health and fitness however her passions come from her homestead life. Beth is an enthusiastic homeschooling mom, avid organic gardener, chicken & goat wrangler, who is obsessed with herbs and natural remedies and maintaining an all-around Do-It-Yourself lifestyle. Beth loves to share all she has learned about and sustainable living. While striving for a healthy, natural life, family-centered life.
I love this article, thanks for all the information. Curious do you know how to harvest the plant and what part is the medicinal part?
The part of the plant you want to harvest is the roots. Harvesting roots from a plant is best done at the end of the growing season when the plants’ energy is returning to the roots at the end of the season.