Reviewed: 2024 March 19
The powdered root of the marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) plant may be consumed to sooth and protect irritated and damaged tissues the full length of the digestive tract. It may be used as a tincture or a tea, but as a tea is more widely distributed over the affected areas allowing for greater effect.
Materials
- Powdered marshmallow root
- Cool water (filtered if available)
- 500 mL or greater container
- Refrigerator
- Sieve or cheesecloth
Procedure
- Add powdered marshmallow root to cool water in a ratio of 6 g (approximately 2 tablespoons):500 mL.
- Shake (if using a covered container) or stir vigorously.
- Macerate (i.e., soak) in refrigerator eight hours.
- Strain mixture using sieve or cheesecloth.
Drink this tea slowly over the course of the day, stirring occasionally.
Marshmallow tea does not require refrigeration once made, but should not be heated. Tea not consumed by the end of the day should be discarded.
Cautions and Contraindications
- Discontinue use of marshmallow tea two hours before taking other medications as it may decrease their absorption.
- Marshmallow tea may decrease blood-sugar levels and should be used with caution by persons using blood-sugar lowering medications, or with a tendency to hypoglycemia.
References
Hoffman D. Medical herbalism: the science and practice of herbal medicine. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press; 2003.
EDrugDigest. Marshmallow [homepage on the internet]. EDrugDigest. [cited 27 Nov 2008]. Available from: http://www.drugdigest.org/DD/PrintablePages/herbMonograph/0,11475, 552553,00.html.