Synonyms/Common Names/Related Substances:

• Althaea leaf, althaea root, Althaea officinalis L. var robusta, Althaeae folium, althaeae radi, althaea radix, Althea, althea leaf, althea root, Altheia, Apothekerstockmalve (German), bismalva (Italian), buonvischio (Italian), cheeses, Eibischwurzel (German), Guimauve (French), gul hatem (Turkish), Herba Malvae, hitmi (Turkish), kitmi (Turkish), Mallards, Malvaceae (family), malvacioni (Italian), malve, malvavisco (Spanish), mortification root, Racine De Guimauve, sweet weed, witte malve, wymote.
• Combination product examples: Weleda Hustenelixier (ivy leaf, thyme, aniseed, marshmallow).
• Note: Not to be confused with mallow leaf or mallow flower. Not to be confused with confectionery marshmallows; although confectionery marshmallows were once made from the Althaea officinalis plant, they now primarily contain sugar.

Clinical Bottom Line/Effectiveness

Brief Background:

• Both marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) leaf and root are used in commercial preparations. Herbal formulations are made from either the dried root or leaf (unpeeled or peeled). The actual mucilaginous content of the commercial product may vary according to the time of collection.
• There is a lack of clinical trials available assessing marshmallow as a monotherapy for any indication. Therapeutic applications of marshmallow are supported principally by traditional use, phytochemical investigation, and pre-clinical research. Limited human evidence is available studying the efficacy of marshmallow-containing combination products for dermatological conditions.
• Although clinically unproven, marshmallow may interfere with the absorption of oral medications. Therefore, ingestion of marshmallow several hours before or after other medicinal agents may be warranted.
• Marshmallow is generally regarded as safe, and literature review reveals no documented adverse case-reports. However, the potential for marshmallow to elicit allergic reactions or hypoglycemia has been noted anecdotally.

Dosing/Toxicology

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Precautions/Contraindications

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Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

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Mechanism of Action

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History

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Evidence Table

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Evidence Discussion

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Products Studied

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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