Marshmallow Root Extract

Glass dropper bottle

Alcohol based
Concentrated 

Marshmallow Root
Botanical Name:  Althaea officinalis
Botanical Family: Malvaceae family, commonly known as the mallow family. This family is characterized by plants that often contain mucilage, used for soothing properties. Other well-known plants in the Malvaceae family include okra, hibiscus, cotton, and hollyhock
Active Chemical Compound: high-molecular-weight mucilage polysaccharides (galacturonorhamnans, arabinogalactans, glucans, and arabinans), which typically comprise 6–12% of the root. These compounds, along with flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins, provide its signature soothing, anti-inflammatory, and demulcent properties. 

Marshmallow root is a traditional herbal remedy known for its soothing properties due to high mucilage content. It is generally considered safe, but potential side effects and drug interactions require caution, and pregnant or nursing women should avoid its use. 

Benefits of Marshmallow Root
The primary benefit of marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) stems from its mucilage, a gel-like substance that forms a protective coating over mucous membranes. 

Soothes Respiratory Issues: It is widely used in syrups and lozenges to relieve dry coughs, sore throats, and general irritation of the respiratory tract by providing a protective film.
Aids Digestive Health: The mucilage coats the stomach and intestinal lining, which can help alleviate acid reflux, heartburn, gastritis, stomach ulcers, and symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It can also help normalize bowel movements, easing both constipation and diarrhea.
Promotes Skin Health and Wound Healing: When applied topically as an ointment or a poultice, marshmallow root can soothe skin irritation caused by conditions like eczema and dermatitis. Its antibacterial properties may also help promote faster wound healing and protect against infection.
Supports Urinary Tract Health: Its diuretic properties help flush out excess fluid and bacteria, potentially easing inflammation and discomfort associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Provides Antioxidants: Marshmallow root contains flavonoids and phenolic compounds that act as antioxidants, helping to protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. 

Side Effects and Precautions
Marshmallow root is generally well-tolerated, with few severe side effects reported, but some considerations are important. 

Drug Interactions: The mucilage can form a coating in the digestive tract, which may reduce or delay the absorption and effectiveness of oral medications. To avoid this, oral medications should be taken at least one hour before or several hours after consuming marshmallow root.
Blood Sugar Levels: Marshmallow root may lower blood sugar levels. Individuals with diabetes or prediabetes, especially those taking blood sugar medications (like glimepiride or insulin), should monitor their glucose levels closely and consult a healthcare provider.
Bleeding Risk: It might slow blood clotting. If you have a bleeding disorder or a scheduled surgery, you should stop using marshmallow root at least two weeks beforehand to avoid increased bleeding risk.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable information to confirm its safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it is best to avoid it during these periods.
Allergic Reactions: Though rare, some people may have an allergic reaction, with symptoms such as hives, itchy eyes, skin rash, or swelling of the face/throat.
Digestive Upset: In some cases, mild digestive issues like upset stomach, bloating, or diarrhea have been anecdotally reported. 

Key Active Compounds & Constituents:
Mucilage Polysaccharides: These are the main constituents responsible for coating and soothing inflamed mucous membranes.
Bioactive Components: The root also contains flavonoids (such as quercetin), phenolic acids (caffeic, ferulic, and chlorogenic acids), coumarins (scopoletin), and tannins.
Secondary Constituents: Other compounds present include asparagine, starch, pectin, and beta-sitosterol. 

These compounds are often used to treat dry coughs, sore throats, and gastrointestinal irritation, as well as for topical skin irritation due to their ability to form a protective, hydrating gel layer.