Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)

Botanical Description

  • Family: Malvaceae (Mallow family)
  • Common Names: Marshmallow, White Mallow
  • Parts Used: Roots, Leaves, Flowers
  • Native Habitat: Europe, including the UK and Isle of Man, where it grows in damp meadows, marshes, and along riverbanks.

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a highly soothing, demulcent, and anti-inflammatory herb. It has been used historically in medicine, cuisine, and folklore for its mucilaginous properties, which help soothe inflammation, protect mucous membranes, and support skin healing.

Constituents & Their Actions

Plant Part Constituents Primary Actions
Root Mucilage (up to 35%), flavonoids, pectin, starch, tannins, asparagine Demulcent, anti-inflammatory, protective, digestive support
Leaves Mucilage, flavonoids, tannins, essential oils Respiratory & urinary tract support, cooling, soothing
Flowers Mucilage, flavonoids, anthocyanins Mild anti-inflammatory, skin healing, digestive aid
  • Mucilage: Forms a protective coating over mucous membranes, reducing inflammation in the throat, lungs, stomach, and intestines.
  • Flavonoids: Provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Tannins: Offer mild astringent and wound-healing properties.
  • Pectin & Starch: Aid digestion and gut health.

Equine Use of Marshmallow

Benefits for Horses
  1. Digestive Support – Soothes gastric ulcers, colic, and digestive inflammation.
  2. Respiratory Health – Aids coughs, bronchitis, and respiratory irritation.
  3. Skin & Wound Healing – Helps with sores, burns, and irritations.
  4. Urinary Health – Supports kidney and bladder function.
  5. Joint & Hoof Care – Used externally as a poultice for inflammation.
Administration for Horses
  • Infused Tea or Soaked Root:
    • Dried root soaked in warm water and added to feed for digestive or respiratory support.
  • Poultice (External Use):
    • Apply a moist mash of crushed marshmallow root for sores or inflamed joints.
  • Tincture or Syrup:
    • Can be added to drinking water for coughs and lung support.
⚠ Precautions
  • May slow absorption of medications, so administer separately.
  • Use caution in diabetic horses, as the root contains sugars.

Canine Use of Marshmallow

Benefits for Dogs
  1. Digestive Health – Helps acid reflux, gastritis, and colitis.
  2. Respiratory Support – Soothes coughs, kennel cough, and bronchitis.
  3. Skin & Coat Care – Used externally for wounds, rashes, and burns.
  4. Urinary Tract Support – Aids bladder infections and kidney irritation.
Administration for Dogs
  • Tea or Infusion:
    • Marshmallow root powder to warm water and mix into food.
  • Poultice:
    • Apply a moist paste to wounds, burns, or dry skin patches.
⚠ Precautions
  • Monitor for allergic reactions in sensitive dogs.
  • May affect medication absorption, so separate administration times.

UK & Isle of Man Folklore of Marshmallow

Folklore & Historical Use
  • Healing & Protection – Marshmallow was planted near homes for healing and safeguarding against evil.
  • Celtic Medicine – Used in poultices for wounds and burns.
  • Offerings to Water Spirits – In the Isle of Man, marshmallow was offered in rituals for good health and protection.
  • Traditional Cough Remedy – Folk healers in England and the Isle of Man made marshmallow syrups for colds and lung ailments.

Conclusion

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a gentle yet powerful healing herb, valued for soothing inflamed tissues, supporting respiratory and digestive health, and promoting wound healing. Deeply rooted in British and Manx folklore, it remains a trusted remedy in equine, canine, and human herbal medicine.

Calming

Coat and skin

Digestion

Respiratory

Marigold (Calendula officinalis) Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)